Preparation of Cellulose Insulating Paper with Low Dielectric Constant by BTCA Esterification Crosslinking

Abstract This study aims to decrease the dielectric constant of kraft paper by 1,2,3,4‐butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) esterification crosslinking. Kraft paper samples are treated with various concentrations of BTCA to prepare modified paper with different reaction degrees. Morphology and surface chemical composition are characterized. The dielectric constant and loss of the plain and modified paper are also investigated. Results show that esterification occurs successfully between cellulose molecular chain and BTCA. The intrinsic dielectric constant and loss of 6 g L −1 BTCA‐treated paper decrease by 23.5% and 36.3%, respectively, at 50 Hz. The esterification can reduce the hydroxyl amounts on cellulose. The formed crosslinking network between the cellulose chains restricts the cellulose orientation polarization, thereby reducing cellulose polarizability. The electrical strength, mechanical properties, and thermal behavior of the samples are explored to evaluate comprehensively the modifying effect. BTCA esterification crosslinking proves to be a promising method for decreasing the dielectric constant of kraft paper.