Abstract. A nonlinear current-voltage characteristic is observed in hexatriacontane (C₃₆H₇₄) single crystals and a Schottky effect or Poole-Frenkel effect mechanism is suggested as the cause. It is shown that the breakdown strength (1.5 MV cm^-1) of the crystal at room temperature: (i) is much smaller than that of polyethylene (6 MV cm^-1), (ii) decreases with increasing electrode distance and (iii) is temperature insensitive until the temperature nears boiling point. These results can be explained by taking into account the large electron mobility in hexatriacontane single crystal compared with that in polyethylene. The important role of the amorphous part of the electrical conduction and breakdown characteristics in polyethylene are indicated from these discussions.

Print publication: Issue 9 (14 September 1979)