Patent ID: 6366193
Filing Date: 2002-04-02
Classification: H01B,H01C

Abstract:
A current limiting device comprising:at least two electrodes; an electrically conductive composite material disposed between the at least two electrodes; a first interface between the composite material and a first electrode, and a second interface between the composite material and a second electrode; and an inhomogeneous distribution resistance structure at the interfaces whereby, during a high current event, adiabatic resistive heating of the composite material at the interfaces causes rapid thermal expansion and vaporization of the composite material and separation of the electrodes from composite material and separations within the composite material proximate the interface so the resistance of the current limiting device increases; wherein said electrically conductive composite material comprises a thermosetting material, and comprises: at least one polymeric matrix material and at least one electrically conductive material, and the at least one polymeric matrix material comprises: at least one epoxy; and at least one silicone, in which the at least one epoxy and the at least one silicone and amine containing material combine and react to form a thermosetting, electrically conductive composite material.