Polymer composites have been extensively fabricated given that they are well-fitted for a variety of applications, especially concerning their mechanical properties. However, inadequate outcomes, mainly regarding their electrical performance, have limited their significant potential. Hence, this study proposed the use of multiple fillers, with different geometries, in order to improve the electrical conductivity of a polymer composite. The fabricated composite was mixed, using the ball milling method, before being compressed by a hot press machine at 3 MPa for 10 min. The composite plate was then measured for both its in-plane and through-plane conductivities, which were 3.3 S/cm, and 0.79 S/cm, respectively. Furthermore, the experimental data were then verified using a predicted electrical conductivity model, known as a modified fibre contact model, which considered the manufacturing process, including the shear rate and flow rate. The study indicated that the predicted model had a significant trend and value, compared to the experimental model (0.65 S/cm for sample S1). The resultant fabricated composite materials were found to possess an excellent network formation, and good electrical conductivity for bipolar plate application, when applying compression pressure of 3 MPa for 10 min.
Keywords: composites; electrical conductivity; fuel cells; hot pressing.