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Development of MWCNT/Magnetite Flexible Triboelectric Sensors by Magnetic Patterning
David Seixas Esteves1,2, Manuel F C Pereira3, Ana Ribeiro2
1Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
Polymers
|July 14, 2023
Summary
This study demonstrates that combining magnetite particles with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in polyurethane composites significantly reduces electrical resistance. Magnetic fields can control particle placement, enabling low-cost, reproducible sensors for soft robotics.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Achieving low electrical percolation thresholds in polymer composites is crucial for reducing conductive filler content.
- Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and magnetite particles are explored for their conductive and magnetic properties in polymer matrices.
- Polyurethane (PU) composites are investigated for applications requiring tailored electrical and magnetic responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare and analyze polyurethane composites incorporating MWCNTs and magnetite particles.
- To investigate the effect of magnetic fields on the electrical resistance and particle distribution within the composites.
- To demonstrate the fabrication of a triboelectric sensor and a soft robotic grip utilizing these magnetic-patterned composites.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of PU composites with varying ratios of MWCNTs and magnetite.
- Electrical resistance measurements using a SQUID magnetometer.
- Microstructural analysis using optical microscopy (OM) and X-ray micro computed tomography (micro CT).
- Fabrication of a triboelectric sensor and a soft robotic grip.
Main Results:
- MWCNTs are the primary conductive component; magnetite alone does not render the composite conductive.
- Combining magnetite with MWCNTs significantly reduces electrical resistance, e.g., from 9 × 10^4 to 5 × 10^3 Ω with a 1:1 ratio.
- Magnetic fields enable control over particle location, improving fabrication reproducibility.
- Successful development of a triboelectric sensor and a tendon-driven soft robotic grip.
Conclusions:
- Magnetic patterning of MWCNT-magnetite composites in PU offers a versatile and low-cost method for sensor manufacturing.
- This approach enhances the reproducibility of electrode fabrication for soft robotics applications.
- The developed materials and methods pave the way for advanced soft robotic systems controlled by integrated sensors.
