High-performance PDMS composite sensors utilizing strain-sensitive conductive networks

IF 6.5 2区材料科学 Q1 MATERIALS SCIENCE, COMPOSITES

Composites Communications Pub Date : 2025-03-21 DOI:10.1016/j.coco.2025.102350

Rapisa Jarapanyacheep , Yan Chen , Feng Gao , Huiyong Li , Siyuan Zhou , Congying Wang , Yilun Liu , Luqi Liu , Hui Zhang

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

The fabrication of sensing materials frequently encounters challenges due to insufficient sensitivity and non-linear sensing behavior. To address these issues, we propose a novel strategy that employs thermally expanded microspheres (TEMs) to facilitate local-strain-concentration and straight fillers to construct a strain-sensitive conductive pathway. To achieve this, we prepared polymer-based composites by combining TEMs, conductive nanofillers (such as carbon nanofiber (CNF) and carbon nanotube (CNT)), and a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix. Electrical characterization demonstrated that the inclusion of TEMs enhanced the conductivity of nanocomposites by promoting a more efficient conductive network. Electron microscopy further revealed the formation of segregated conductive networks surrounding TEMs particles. Strain sensing evaluations revealed a significant increase in sensitivity of the composites with the inclusion of TEM particles. Unlike the highly curved CNT, the straight morphology of the CNF, specifically the 1.50CNF/76TEMs/PDMS nanocomposite, exhibited a broad linear sensing range and superior sensitivity. It achieved a gauge factor (GF) of 32.7 (0 % < ε < 50 %) with good stability and durability over 10,000 cycles. Our findings will provide a valuable reference for the design of strain sensors with high sensitivity, linearity, low cost, and scalability for future applications in the realm of flexible electronics.

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来源期刊

Composites Communications Materials Science-Ceramics and Composites

CiteScore

12.10

自引率

10.00%

发文量

340

审稿时长

36 days

期刊介绍： Composites Communications (Compos. Commun.) is a peer-reviewed journal publishing short communications and letters on the latest advances in composites science and technology. With a rapid review and publication process, its goal is to disseminate new knowledge promptly within the composites community. The journal welcomes manuscripts presenting creative concepts and new findings in design, state-of-the-art approaches in processing, synthesis, characterization, and mechanics modeling. In addition to traditional fiber-/particulate-reinforced engineering composites, it encourages submissions on composites with exceptional physical, mechanical, and fracture properties, as well as those with unique functions and significant application potential. This includes biomimetic and bio-inspired composites for biomedical applications, functional nano-composites for thermal management and energy applications, and composites designed for extreme service environments.