Investigation of dielectric behavior of the PVC/BaTiO3 composite in low-frequencies

Abstract

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is widely used as insulator in electrical engineering especially as cable insulation sheaths. In order to improve the dielectric properties, polymers are mixed with ceramics. In this paper, PVC composites with different weight percentages 2 wt.%, 5 wt.%, 8 wt.% and 10 wt.% were prepared and investigated. Loss index (ε′′) and dielectric constant (ε′) have been measured using an impedance analyzer RLC. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) have been used as characterization techniques. The incorporation of BaTiO3 does not modify the crystallinity and the morphology of the PVC but reduces the space charges, therefore the dielectric losses. The frequency response analysis has been followed in the frequency ranges (20–140 Hz and 115–1 MHz). Relaxation frequencies have been evaluated in each frequency range. Experimental measurements have been validated using Cole–Cole’s model. Experimental results show well that BaTiO3 as a filler improves the dielectric properties of PVC.