Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop and optimize a reproducible flexible sensor adapted to thin low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films and/or structures to enable their deformation measurements. As these deformations are suspected to be weak (less than 10%), the developed sensor needs to be particularly sensitive. Moreover, it is of prime importance that sensor integration and usability do not modify the mechanical behavior of its LDPE substrate. The literature review allowed several materials to be investigated and an elastomer/intrinsically conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS (CleviosTM) filled composite was selected to simultaneously combine mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. This composite (made of PEDOT:PSS and silicone Bluesil®) presented satisfying compatibilities with piezoresistive effects, negative temperature performances (in a range from −60 °C to 20 °C), as well as elongation properties (until the elastic limit of the substrate was reached). The method used for creating the sensor is fully described, as are the optimization of the sensor manufacture in terms of used materials, the used amount of materials where the percolation theory aspects must be considered, the adhesion to the substrate, and the manufacturing protocol. Electromechanical characterization was performed to assess the gauge factor (K) of the sensor on its substrate.
Highlights
To maintain competitiveness, one way to sustain technical innovations is to reinforce scientific and technological foundations and increase the performance of existing structures
Conductive polymers are comprised of conductive polymer composites (CPC), which are obtained by blending an insulating polymer matrix with conductive fillers, and intrinsically conductive or semi-conductive polymers (ICP) [2]
10wt wt%%ofofdried driedPEDOT:PSS, PEDOT:PSS, curve indicated steepest slope, resistance did not vary with much magnitude
Summary
One way to sustain technical innovations is to reinforce scientific and technological foundations and increase the performance of existing structures. Conductive polymers based strain gauges, either made of CPCs (carbon or metallic particles) or intrinsically conducting polymers (ICPs) are interesting for their lower cost, outstanding flexibility, or light weight [4,5,6]; and for their simple processing as either melt-mixed solid compounds (carbon or metallic particles), or as liquid dispersions or solutions for film-forming and coating [2,7].
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