Enhancing the Performance of Natural Ester Insulating Liquids in Power Transformers: A Comprehensive Review on Antioxidant Additives for Improved Oxidation Stability

Esther Ogwa Obebe, Yazid Hadjadj, Samson Okikiola Oparanti and Issouf Fofana ()
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Esther Ogwa Obebe: Canada Research Chair Tier 1 in Aging of Oil-Filled Equipment on High Voltage Lines (ViAHT), University of Quebec at Chicoutimi, Chicoutimi, QC G7H 2B1, Canada
Yazid Hadjadj: Metrology Research Center, National Research Council, Ottawa, ON K1A 0R6, Canada
Samson Okikiola Oparanti: Canada Research Chair Tier 1 in Aging of Oil-Filled Equipment on High Voltage Lines (ViAHT), University of Quebec at Chicoutimi, Chicoutimi, QC G7H 2B1, Canada
Issouf Fofana: Canada Research Chair Tier 1 in Aging of Oil-Filled Equipment on High Voltage Lines (ViAHT), University of Quebec at Chicoutimi, Chicoutimi, QC G7H 2B1, Canada

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 7, 1-34

Abstract: The reliability of the electrical grid is vital to economic prosperity and quality of life. Power transformers, key components of transmission and distribution systems, represent major capital investments. Traditionally, these machines have relied on petroleum-based mineral oil as an insulating liquid. However, with a global shift toward sustainability, renewable insulating materials like natural esters are gaining attention due to their environmental and fire safety benefits. These biodegradable liquids are poised to replace hydrocarbon-based oils in transformers, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 13 by promoting clean energy and climate action. Despite their advantages, natural esters face challenges in high-voltage applications, particularly due to oxidation stability issues linked to their fatty acid composition. Various antioxidants have been explored to address this, with synthetic antioxidants proving more effective than natural ones, especially under high-temperature conditions. Their superior thermal stability ensures that natural esters retain their cooling and dielectric properties, essential for transformer performance. Furthermore, integrating machine learning and artificial intelligence in antioxidant development and monitoring presents a transformative opportunity. This review provides insights into the role of antioxidants in natural ester-filled power equipment, supporting their broader adoption and contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

Keywords: transformer; insulating liquids; natural esters; oxidation stability; antioxidants (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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