In a significant stride towards enhancing the performance of flexible sensing materials, researchers from the University of Ljubljana have unveiled crucial insights into the structure-property relationships of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) networks within thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites. This breakthrough, published in the journal ‘Materials & Design’ (which translates to ‘Materials & Design’ in English), could have profound implications for the energy sector, particularly in the development of advanced, flexible sensing technologies.
At the heart of this research is the quest to improve the thermo-mechanical stability and electrical conductivity of carbon nanotube/elastomer-based nanocomposites. These materials are increasingly sought after for their potential applications in flexible sensing devices, which are critical for various energy sector applications, including smart grids, energy harvesting, and structural health monitoring.
Lead author Stefan Serafimoski and his team employed advanced experimental techniques to dissect the main building blocks and network morphology of MWCNT/TPU systems. Through plasma etching and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), they revealed that the network is predominantly constructed from MWCNT bundles. “The inherent nature of the elastomeric system forces these bundles and the network to retain a random distribution,” Serafimoski explained. This random distribution is a key factor in understanding the material’s overall performance.
The researchers identified that the bundles behave as stiff rod-like Brownian entities, geometrically entangling at a volume fraction of approximately 0.46%, indicating the onset of network formation. The network was considered fully established at a concentration of around 1%, marked by the cross-over point of dynamic moduli. This finding is crucial as it directly impacts the material’s ability to transfer force and electrons efficiently.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is the significant improvement in the thermo-mechanical and conductive performance of the nanocomposite. The fully established network was found to enhance the material’s moduli by approximately tenfold and its conductivity by an astonishing eight orders of magnitude. Additionally, the glass transition temperature increased by 25°C, indicating a substantial improvement in thermo-mechanical stability within operating temperatures.
The commercial implications of this research are vast. In the energy sector, the development of flexible sensing materials with enhanced thermo-mechanical stability and electrical conductivity can lead to more efficient and reliable energy harvesting systems, improved structural health monitoring, and advanced smart grid technologies. These advancements could ultimately contribute to more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for innovative materials that can withstand harsh operating conditions while maintaining high performance is paramount. This research not only sheds light on the fundamental aspects of MWCNT/TPU nanocomposites but also paves the way for future developments in the field. As Serafimoski noted, “Understanding the structure-property relationships is crucial for optimizing these materials for specific applications, and our findings provide a solid foundation for further advancements.”
In conclusion, the work conducted by Serafimoski and his team represents a significant step forward in the development of advanced materials for flexible sensing applications. The insights gained from this research have the potential to shape the future of the energy sector, driving innovation and improving the efficiency and reliability of energy systems worldwide.