Ultra-high conductivity double-conducting network elastomers with positive-negative pressure resistance constructed by self-assembly of fillers for intelligent sensing

Abstract

Elastomers with ultra-high conductivity of metal grade have broad application prospects in the fields of skin electronics and special sensing. However, high conductivity of thin films can only be achieved at ultra-thin thicknesses. Achieving an overall conductivity of more than 106 S/m in a simple process remains a challenge. Here, we propose a strategy for the preparation of highly conductive porous elastomers (HCPE) by thermoplastic processing using a solid-phase transition double template (S-PTDT). The connected hole structure and dual conductive network constructed in the material overcome the contradiction between high conductivity and compliance with high filler content and become the most conductivity porous elastomer to date. Its overall conductivity reaches 4.4 × 106 S/m, while its Shore A hardness is only 26, even lower than that of the original material without filler. The unique positive and negative piezoresistive effects of the material enable it to accurately identify running posture and correct posture as an arch sensor. The muscle electrical intelligent sensing prepared by HCPE realizes the monitoring and judgment of muscle state and action standards in strength training, which shows its great application prospect in the field of intelligent flexible electronics.