Advanced characterization of new insulation materials for next generation of HVDC power cables

Research Project, 2019 – 2020

Modern high voltage direct current (HVDC) cables insulated by crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) are the critical components in integrating renewable energy sources to the grid of tomorrow.
Traditionally, the crosslinking is carried out using peroxides, which lead to the presence of byproducts compromising the purity of the raw material and its electrical insulation properties. To minimize this
effect, the research group led by C. Müller at the Department of Chemistry at Chalmers has during 2017-2018 developed an alternative materials concept that may allow for replacing peroxide
crosslinking and thus for increasing material purity. The aim of the proposed research is to evaluate whether the suggested new material solution provides an adequate performance required for insulation of HVDC cables. This will be achieved by conducting extensive testing and evaluation including in depth rheological and electrical characterization. Additionally, computer simulations will be combined with the experiments to provide additional insight into the materials’ electrical performance. The research will be conducted in cooperation among four different departments within Chalmers: Electrical Engineering (div. Electric Power Engineering), Industrial and Materials Science (div. Materials Engineering), Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (div. Applied Chemistry), and Physics (div.
Condensed Matter Physics). In addition, several industries are interested stakeholders in the outcome of this project, namely Borealis (Stenungsund), Nexans (Halden), NKT Cables (Alingsås). It is anticipated that this project will considerably deepen the collaboration between the four departments behind this application which will lead to a lasting synergy within this research field which is critical both for Chalmers as well as the Swedish Industry.