Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

E-Field Dependent Conduction In Low-Density Polyethylene, Jerilyn Brunson, John R. Dennison

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Measurements of the resistivity of low density polyethylene (LDPE) samples of varying thickness have been made using the standard constant voltage method to explore electric field dependence using conduction mechanisms developed for amorphous solids and semi-conductors. Resistivity is related to carrier mobility within the bulk. Where electrons are the primary charge carriers, their mobility is dependent on their probability of hopping between trapping sites treated as potential wells. A series of constant voltage measurements at constant temperature show that LDPE follows the Poole-Frenkel theory of field-enhanced conduction at low applied fields.