Highly Sensitive Piezoresistive Graphene-Based Stretchable Composites for Sensing Applications.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Advanced polymer composites require tailored filler properties for enhanced functionality.
• Graphene derivatives offer tunable electrical conductivity for smart material development.
• Styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS) is a versatile thermoplastic elastomer for composite applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the development of high-performance polymer-based smart composite materials using graphene fillers.
• To tailor the electrical conductivity and piezoresistive properties of SEBS nanocomposites.
• To evaluate the potential of these composites for strain sensor applications.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of SEBS nanocomposites incorporating graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and graphene nanoplatelets (G-NPLs).
• Characterization of electrical conductivity and determination of percolation thresholds for different graphene fillers.
• Evaluation of piezoresistive behavior and gauge factors under varying strain levels.

Main Results:

• Electrical conductivity percolation thresholds were observed around 2 wt% for GO and rGO in SEBS.
• G-NPLs showed minimal change in conductivity up to 6 wt% filler content.
• GO/SEBS and rGO/SEBS composites demonstrated high piezoresistivity with gauge factors up to 120 at 10% strain.

Conclusions:

• GO/SEBS and rGO/SEBS composites exhibit significant potential as a new generation of materials for strain sensor applications.
• The tunable electrical and piezoresistive properties make these composites suitable for advanced sensing technologies.
• Demonstrated implementation in a hand glove prototype highlights practical applicability in wearable electronics and motion monitoring.