Radiation Degradation Detection of LDPE Using Thermoluminescence Method

열발광 특성을 이용한 저밀도 폴리에틸렌의 방사선 열화 검출

Polymers are widely used as insulating materials at various part of power industry. However, electrical properties of these polymers are easily degraded with their working environments, especially radiation areas. In this research, radiation degradation of low density polyethylene (LDPE) used as cable insulation was evaluated with thermoluminescence characteristics. LDPE was irradiated with gamma ray up to 1000 kGy at a dose rate of 5 kGy/hr in the presence of air at room temperature. Each of the irradiated samples were carried out thermoluminescence analysis as a function of temperature. Interrelationships between thermoluminescence and dielectric characteristics and volume resistivity are investigated as well. The results of thermoluminescence analysis showed that those would be significant factors for evaluation of radiation degradation.