Electrofunctional polymer nanocomposites

Abstract

This is a study of electrofunctional nanocomposites based on multi wall carbon nanotubes dispersed in a compliant polymer matrix. The study considers the dispersion of nanotubes, the processing of the polymer matrix and different compositions. The nanocomposite samples were tested in terms of electrical conductivity, relative permittivity and actuation under voltage. Finite element simulations of actuation were validated with the experimental data and were used in parametric studies to explore the application of these electrofunctional nanocomposites in the areas of actuating displays and artificial muscles for biomedical applications.