A computational modelling of carbon layer formation on treeing branches

Polymeric insulation employed in electrical power industry undergo irreversible and unpredictable ageing due to partial discharges. In particular, the dielectric properties of polyethylene used in high voltage cables are often compromised by the formation of electrical trees. In this work we assume that the propagation of treeing channels involves the injection of carbonic material into the gas interacting with the surface of the defect. Experimental characterizations proved that, in certain conditions, disordered graphitic carbon can form in some areas of the electrical trees, thus increasing surface conductivity and inhibiting partial discharges. The chemical mechanism involved in this process is yet to be clarified. Here we propose a model for this process. By means of a series of molecular dynamics simulations, we show how the chemisorption of gaseous molecules on a polyethylene surface can lead to a bidimensional carbonic structure. The characterization of the density of states of such systems suggests that the presence of pure carbon adsorbed on the polymer causes an increase in surface conductivity.