Stretchable and flexible high-strain sensors made using carbon nanotubes and graphite films on natural rubber

Sensors (Basel). 2014 Jan 6;14(1):868-76. doi: 10.3390/s140100868.

Abstract

Conventional metallic strain sensors are flexible, but they can sustain maximum strains of only ~5%, so there is a need for sensors that can bear high strains for multifunctional applications. In this study, we report stretchable and flexible high-strain sensors that consist of entangled and randomly distributed multiwall carbon nanotubes or graphite flakes on a natural rubber substrate. Carbon nanotubes/graphite flakes were sandwiched in natural rubber to produce these high-strain sensors. Using field emission scanning electron microscopy, the morphology of the films for both the carbon nanotube and graphite sensors were assessed under different strain conditions (0% and 400% strain). As the strain was increased, the films fractured, resulting in an increase in the electrical resistance of the sensor; this change was reversible. Strains of up to 246% (graphite sensor) and 620% (carbon nanotube sensor) were measured; these values are respectively ~50 and ~120 times greater than those of conventional metallic strain sensors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Elasticity
  • Graphite / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Nanotechnology / methods*
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / chemistry*

Substances

  • Nanotubes, Carbon
  • Graphite