Insight Into the Compatibility Between C6F12O and Metal Materials: Experiment and Theory

C6F12O has been introduced as a potential substitute to the most greenhouse gas SF6 used in the medium-voltage (MV) electrical equipment due to its great insulation and environmental performance. While there are few studies on the compatibility between C6F12O and metal materials used in the equipment which needs to be investigated and understood to avoid the negative impact on the material or gas. In this paper, we carried out experimental and theoretical studies on the interaction between C6F12O and copper, silver, aluminum. We found that the interaction between C6F12O and copper, aluminum introduces fluorine to the metal surface and generates some metal oxide. There was no significant change in the element composition and surface chemical states of silver after interacting with C6F12O. The interaction mechanism between C6F12O and copper, aluminum is attributed to the chemical adsorption and the interaction between C6F12O and silver belongs to the physical adsorption. The compatibility between C6F12O and silver is greater than that of copper, aluminum. Relevant results provide a reference for the design and manufacture of equipment using C6F12O gas mixture as the insulating medium.