On the electrical conduction in liquid dielectrics

The current-voltage d.c, characteristics of several saturated acyclic hydrocarbons (n-C5H12, n-C6H14 and n-C6H16) have been studied in a coaxial electrode arrangement previously described and providing a high field-gradient between the inner (thin wire) and the outer electrode. The liquids were tested after various stages of purification, and under both polarities of the cell. Before any measurement was taken, the cell was carefully conditioned under a high voltage which was increased gradually. After a one-week conditioning, stable, reproducible currents were usually observed.