Pulse power capability of high energy density capacitors based on a new dielectric material

A new dielectric composite consisting of a polymer coated onto a high-densi ty metallized Kraft has been developed for application in pulse power capac itors. The polymer coating is custom formulated for high dielectric constan t and strength with minimum dielectric losses. The composite can be wound a nd processed using conventional wound film capacitor manufacturing equipmen t. This new system has the potential to achieve 2 to 3 J/cm(3) whole capaci tor energy density at voltage levels above 3.0 kV, and can maintain its phy sical properties to temperatures above 175 degreesC, The technical and manu facturing development of the composite material and fabrication into capaci tors are summarized in this paper. Energy discharge testing, including capa citance and charge-discharge efficiency at normal and elevated temperatures , as well as DC life testing were performed on capacitors manufactured usin g this material. TPL (Albuquerque, NM) has developed the material and Aerov ox (New Bedford, MA) has used the material to build and test model capacito rs. The results of the testing will focus on pulse power applications speci fically those found in electro-magnetic armor and guns, high power microwav e sources and defibrillators.