This article reviews the current status of microstructure and electrical characteristics of zinc oxide surge arresters .Zinc oxide valve plates have superior nonlinear voltagecurrent characteristics and energy absorption capabilities

making them the core components of metal oxide surge arresters in power systems.Consequently

the overvoltage protection level of metal oxide surge arresters depends on the quality of the electrical characteristics of zinc oxide valve plates

which directly determines the insulation level and manufacturing costs of the power grid equipment.With the rapid development of China’s power grid

zinc oxide surge arresters are evolving towards direct current (DC)

extra high voltage

and miniaturized tank highperformance designs.Internally

valve plates are developing towards high gradient

high nonlinearity

large current capacity

low residual voltage

low leakage

and integrated AC/DC capabilities.This article analyzes the impact of the manufacturing formula and process on the electrical performance of the valve plates and summarizes research methods for further improving the electrical characteristics of the zinc oxide valve plates.