The influence of TiO2 nanoparticle incorporation on surface potential decay of corona-resistant polyimide nanocomposite films

PI nanocomposite films containing surface modified nanoparticles by employing silane coupling agent were prepared using in-situ dispersion polymerization process. The surface potential decay measurements on films were investigated over the different negative corona-charged voltages and times in a controlled environment where temperature and relative humidity were kept at 21 °C and 45%, respectively. There is a significant change in the surface potential decay characteristics after nano-fillers were introduced into polyimide. The surface potential decay pattern depends also on the amount of nano-fillers. The possible surface potential decay and corona resistance mechanisms responsible for the observed phenomena were discussed.

► PI nanocomposite films were fabricated using in-situ polymerization.
► The surface potential decay of the films with initial high potential decays faster than that of lower surface potential.
► The incorporation of nano-TiO2 particles can increase the chance of charge transporting in the bulk.