An introduction to the physics of electrical insulation, this book presents the physical foundations of this discipline and the resulting applications. It is structured in two parts. The first part presents a mathematical and intuitive approach to dielectrics; various concepts, including polarization, induction, forces and losses are discussed. The second part provides readers with the keys to understanding the physics of solid, liquid and gas insulation. It comprises a phenomenological description of discharges in gas and its resulting applications. Finally, the main electrical properties of liquids and solids are presented, in order to explain the phenomena of electrical degradation, dissipation and breakdown.
1. Mathematical Examination of Dielectrics.
1.1. Introduction to dielectrics.
1.2. Perfect dielectrics.
1.3. Forces exerted on polarized dielectrics.
1.4. Dielectric losses.
1.5. Residual charges.
1.6. Electrets.
1.7. Characteristics of an insulator.
1.8. Pyro and piezo-electricity.
1.9. Currents in extended conductors.
2. Physical Examination of Dielectrics.
2.1. Gaseous dielectrics.
2.2. Liquid and solid dielectrics.
Appendices. Reminder about Dielectric Spectroscopy / Reminder about Transitory Currents.
Olivier Gallot-Lavallée, University Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, France.