Nano-TiO2 coating for improved electrical properties of outdoor high-voltage porcelain insulators

Abstract

This study delves into the development of porcelain using local raw materials, focusing on insulator contamination as a crucial factor contributing to flashover and security issues in high-voltage power systems. To alleviate this problem, the introduction of nano-TiO₂ coating is proposed as a means to enhance the properties of porcelain insulators. This porcelain composition was formulated using a blend of kaolin, quartz, feldspar, and recycled waste glass. The resulting specimens underwent characterization through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. The research aims to evaluate the relationship between an insulator’s electrical performance and critical flashover voltage in the presence of nano-TiO₂ coating, based on experimental results. An artificial contamination test was conducted, and characterization techniques such as Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) were employed to analyze surface, morphology, and thickness. Raman spectroscopy was utilized to analyze the TiO₂-coated surface. Electrical tests were performed on both coated and uncoated samples to assess the impact of the titanium dioxide film on electrical properties. The TiO₂ coating significantly enhances the reliability of porcelain insulators by increasing flashover voltage, reducing leakage current, and improving both dielectric strength and insulation resistance. Furthermore, the Finite Element Method (FEM) was applied to analyze the effects of coating on the porcelain insulator’s electrical performance. The results underscored the improvement in electrical properties of the studied porcelain, which can be attributed to the isolating properties of the nanoparticles. The combination of experimental and simulation results provides valuable insights into the influence of TiO₂ thin film and its role in enhancing the electrical properties of porcelain.