Mechanical and electrical properties of gamma-irradiated silane crosslinked polyethylene (Si-XLPE)

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)/silane compound was subjected to different treatments (thermal ageing, gamma irradiation) to improve its electrical and mechanical properties. Ageing at 80 °C for 90 days showed a decrease in tensile strength/breaking voltage, and an increase in leakage current. In contrast, gamma irradiation of LDPE/silane samples showed an augmentation in tensile strength/breaking voltage and a decrease in leakage current. Also, an improvement in the electrical properties was remarked after the thermal ageing. Irradiation of old polyethylene/silane insulated cables appeared as a good method to enhance its electrical and mechanical properties for further reusing.