(391c) Functionalization of Composite Al2o3/Metal Varistors Based on Ald Surface Modified Particles

Several shortcomings in traditional metal oxide varistor (MOV) technology have been overcome by continuing research into functionalizing metal insulated varistors (MIVs) based on ALD surface modified particles. In MIV devices, micron-sized conductive or semiconductive particles are insulated with ultrathin Al2O3 films applied via atomic layer deposition. The ALD coated particles are suspended in a polymer matrix and packed and cured between two electrodes. Finished composite devices display significantly improved transient surge suppression behavior over traditional MOVs, showcased in particular by improved response times and significantly decreased capacitance and leakage currents. The inclusion of these improved parameters into surge suppression devices leads to a varistor with improved performance over classical technology.