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

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 o

SUBMITTER: Tadakaluru S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3926590 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature