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Abstract
Nanocomposites based on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT)—Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymer achieve pressure sensors sensitive even at very low pressure less than 5 N. For film homogeneity and sensitivity, fabrication procedure and especially the dispersion quality are decisive. Because of high viscosity of PDMS, a solvent is necessary. Solvents exhibit themselves different dispersion quality and in turn different piezoresistive response of the films under pressure. In this paper, the influence of solvents in fabricating the nanocomposite is investigated considering dispersion quality and stability. The best dispersion stability was achieved with isopropanol and the nanocomposite show better results considering sensitivity and hysteresis behavior under pressure.
Highlights
In the process of fabricating a polymer nanocomposite based pressure sensor, effective dispersion of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) in the polymer matrix is of great importance as it influences the percolation threshold and the mechanical sensitivity of the sensor and its measurement range
To decrease the viscosity and establish a stable dispersion of MWCNTs in PDMS solvents could be used as solvents can be evaporated from the nanocomposite
Dispersion of MWCNTs in solvents is well studied in literature and some strong organic solvents like chloroform, tetrahydrofuran (THF), dimethylformamide (DMF), n-methyl-2pyrrolidone (NMP) has shown good and stable dispersion quality for MWCNTs [2]
Summary
In the process of fabricating a polymer nanocomposite based pressure sensor, effective dispersion of MWCNT in the polymer matrix is of great importance as it influences the percolation threshold and the mechanical sensitivity of the sensor and its measurement range. To decrease the viscosity and establish a stable dispersion of MWCNTs in PDMS solvents could be used as solvents can be evaporated from the nanocomposite. In addition to the above-mentioned solvents, isopropanol is being investigated for its dispersion property, as it is comparatively less hazardous. Solvents could exhibit different dispersion qualities with MWCNTS but miscibility of the solvent to PDMS is more important for the nanocomposite. Solvents like DMF and NMP exhibit lack of compatibility with PDMS as they show vigorous reaction upon mixing with PDMS, forming dense white gel like structure. DMF and NMP are not considered for this investigation in-spite of their excellent dispersion properties [2]. Isopropanol on the other hand shows miscibility with PDMS up to 36 h and could be considered for short term stable nanocomposites
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