Some common misconceptions on electricity and insulators are defined here to clear out the unfounded fears and skepticism that some people have against electricity. By its uses and applications, electricity is considered as a necessity and the whole world stops without this. Electrical insulation materials, on the other hand, are materials that do not conduct any electric current due to its component that resist electricity. Because of its resistance to current, electrical currents cannot pass through the insulating material. Examples of these materials are as follows:
- Glass. This material is one of the best insulators of electricity because of its high resistivity against electrical currents. There is also another material called fiber glass which is a product of modern day technology. Fiber glass is used on most electrical systems nowadays.
- Paper. Paper is mostly used in applications where it would prove to be a great conductor of heat and transfer of electricity because it is combustible. However, it is also one of the greatest insulators when used properly.
- Teflon. In chemistry, polytetrafluoroethylene or Teflon is composed of carbon and fluorine with dielectric properties. It is tougher for current to pass through with this material. But 50% of production of this type is being used for the wiring of electrical capacitor for aerospace and coaxial cables.
- Polymers. It has a lower bulk resistivity but still a good insulator. Polymers are dangerous components of chemical and can cause serious accidents such as fire if not handled properly.