Abstract
Polymer-based composites reinforced with nanocarbonaceous materials can be tailored for functional applications. Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNT) or graphene with different filler contents have been developed as potential piezoresistive materials. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites depend on the PVDF matrix, filler type, and filler content. PVDF 6010 is a relatively more ductile material, whereas PVDF-HFP (hexafluropropylene) shows larger maximum strain near 300% strain for composites with CNT, 10 times higher than the pristine polymer. This behavior is similar for all composites reinforced with CNT. On the other hand, reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/PVDF composites decrease the maximum strain compared to neat PVDF. It is shown that the use of different PVDF copolymers does not influence the electrical properties of the composites. On the other hand, CNT as filler leads to composites with percolation threshold around 0.5 wt.%, whereas rGO nanocomposites show percolation threshold at ≈ 2 wt.%. Both nanocomposites present excellent linearity between applied pressure and resistance variation, with pressure sensibility (PS) decreasing with applied pressure, from PS ≈ 1.1 to 0.2 MPa−1. A proof of concept demonstration is presented, showing the suitability of the materials for industrial pressure sensing applications.
Highlights
Polymer-based nanocomposites are attracting large attention in recent years both in the scientific and industrial areas
Chemical and Thermal Characterization and the corresponding composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNT) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) (Figure 1B)
1A) and the corresponding composites reinforced with CNT and rGO (Figure 1B)
Summary
Polymer-based nanocomposites are attracting large attention in recent years both in the scientific and industrial areas. Flexibility or stretchability, force, and environmental conditions influence the host polymer to use in view the overall properties to select Soft polymer matrices such as natural rubbers or thermoplastic elastomers are reported to provide the nanocomposite high strain capability from low to large strains [15], and a wide range of sensitivity in functional response [22]. In order to develop a functional material with specific responses to the applications, the focus on the different properties of the polymer matrices and fillers (type and content) will be evaluated to tailor the overall properties of the composite to work as piezoresistive sensible material under mechanical compression. 400 MPa to 2.5 GPa of tensile modulus, as detailed in experimental part and CNT and rGO have been selected as functional fillers based on their different dimensions and intrinsic properties
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
