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Updated: Jan 15, 2026
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Strain Sensing Based on Multiscale Composite Materials Reinforced with Graphene Nanoplatelets
Published on: November 7, 2016
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Enhanced Sensitivity in Crack-Based Graphene Nanoplatelets Strain Sensors
Haleh Shahsa1, Jong Hyun Sa1, Dian Yu2
1Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|January 14, 2026
Summary
This study developed a highly sensitive strain sensor using graphene nanoplatelets within a cracked polymer. The sensor achieves exceptional performance for detecting small deformations and monitoring structural integrity.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Mechanical Engineering
Background:
- Crack-based strain sensors offer high sensitivity for detecting minute mechanical deformations.
- Integrating nanomaterials with cracked polymer substrates is a key strategy for flexible, ultrasensitive sensor fabrication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize a flexible, ultrasensitive strain sensor using precisely controlled graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) flake sizes on a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate.
- To investigate the relationship between GNP flake size, crack width, and sensor performance.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a strain sensor using a PDMS substrate and GNPs with controlled flake sizes.
- Utilizing in situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for deformation characterization.
- Evaluating sensor performance, including gauge factor, stretchability, and durability over 1000 loading cycles.
Main Results:
- Achieved an ultrahigh gauge factor of 320 at 0.01% strain and 4200 at 10% strain.
- Demonstrated that sensor sensitivity is highly dependent on the relative dimensions of GNP flake size and crack width.
- Confirmed excellent durability over 1000 loading cycles.
Conclusions:
- The developed GNP-based crack sensor offers both ultrahigh sensitivity and acceptable stretchability.
- The sensor shows promise for applications such as sound recognition and strain monitoring of metallic components.
- Precise control over GNP flake size is crucial for optimizing sensor performance.
