Nonlinear response and two stable electrical conductivity levels measured in plasticized PVC thin film samples

Abstract

The electrical conductivity of PVC films prepared with a patented plasticizer of type "A" was measured with high precision automated setup, based on standard ring sell with a voltage range much less than breakdown voltage. Continual voltage-current measurements permit to take into account Debay relaxation process and clearly distinguish specific polymer film conductivity effects, connected with continuous current-stabilization behavior and transitions between two stable (long-living) states with several order magnitude different conductivities. Spontaneous reversible and non-destructive transitions of resistance levels was observed. For 30 mkm polymer films the values of sample resistance was measured equal to: high- 106 Ohm and low -103 Ohm.