Preparation of graphenen/natural rubber composite for compliant electrode applications

Abstract

A compliant electrode is a stretchable electronic device that retains good conductivity under stretching. It has been used in various electro-actuating applications that require large deformations under electrical activated energy. The purpose of this work was to fabricate the compliant electrode possessing high electrical conductivity and good mechanical properties. Due to the excellent mechanical properties of natural rubber (NR), it was used as a matrix for preparing a compliant electrode. Graphene is one of many innovative new conductive fillers that provides excellence electrical conductivity. In order to investigate its mechanical properties and electrical conductivity, an experiment was carried out by using a melt rheometer in tension mode. Both mechanical and electrical properties were improved by introducing graphene into the matrix. Despite the strain of NR films reaching 80%, the films were able to maintain electrical conductivity values with very low drop offs. The highest electrical conductivity was obtained from the 35.0 %v/v graphene/NR composite which was greater than the DANFOSS commercial compliant electrode. In conclusion, a graphene /NR composite was shown as a promising material for using as a compliant electrode.