Title: Characterization of the 3D-Printed Carbon Nanotube/Polyurethane Composite with Structural Health Monitoring Capabilities

Authors: Hye-Kyoung Jeon, Yu-Jin Jung, Ga-Hyeon Eom, Sung-Hwan Jang, Surojit Sen  

DOI: 10.33599/nasampe/c.24.0284

Abstract: Structural health monitoring (SHM) is increasingly crucial for early damage detection and timely alerts to users. Research on SHM techniques utilizing the self-sensing capabilities of carbon nanotube (CNT) based composites has gained significant attention. Currently, investigations into 3D printing techniques for automating the fabrication of CNT based composites are on the rise. This paper investigates the consequential effects of the SHM properties of CNT/polyurethane (PU) composites 3D printed in a DIW format. The CNT/PU composite ink was synthesized by incorporating CNTs into PU, which significantly enhances both electrical and mechanical properties. Electrical conductivity measurements of the CNT/PU ink were conducted, showing a sharp increase in electrical conductivity at the percolation threshold of 1 wt% CNT concentration. Printing characteristics of the CNT/PU ink were evaluated, with viscosity and printing parameters affecting ink flow and trace width identified an optimal CNT concentration for 3D printing. Customization of 3D printing patterns through control of printing parameters is noted for smooth printing. The self-sensing evaluation of the 3D-printed CNT/PU composites was conducted through a comparative analysis of bending, compression, temperature change conditions. The research results demonstrate the potential for various applications, such as structural condition monitoring, through the utilization of the CNT/PU composite materials and printing methods.

References: 1. Cassese, P., Rainieri, C., & Occhiuzzi, A. Applications of cement-based smart composites to civil structural health monitoring: a review. Applied Sciences, 11(18), 8530. 2021. [https://doi.org/10.3390/app11188530] 2. Rainieri, C., Magalhaes, F., Gargaro, D., Fabbrocino, G., & Cunha, A. Predicting the variability of natural frequencies and its causes by Second-Order Blind Identification. Structural Health Monitoring, 18(2), 486-507. 2019. [https://doi.org/10.1177/1475921718758629] 3. Park, M., Kim, H., & Youngblood, J. P. Strain-dependent electrical resistance of multi-walled carbon nanotube/polymer composite films. Nanotechnology, 19(5), 055705. 2008. [https://doi.org/10.1088/0957-4484/19/05/055705] 4. Thostenson, E. T., & Chou, T. W. Real-time in situ sensing of damage evolution in advanced fiber composites using carbon nanotube networks. Nanotechnology, 19(21), 215713. 2008. [https://doi.org/10.1088/0957-4484/19/21/215713] 5. Sanchez-Sobrado, O., Rodriguez, D., Losada, R., & Rodriguez, E. Evaluation of conductive smart composite polymeric materials for potential applicationsin structural health monitoring and strain detection. Functional Composite Materials, 4(1), 2. 2023. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s42252-023-00039-x] 6. Cortés, A., Sánchez-Romate, X. F., Jiménez-Suárez, A., Campo, M., Ureña, A., & Prolongo, S. G. Mechanical and strain-sensing capabilities of carbon nanotube reinforced composites by digital light processing 3D printing technology. Polymers, 12(4), 975. 2020. [https://doi.org/10.3390/polym12040975] 7. Lim, D. D., Lee, J., Park, J., & Choi, W. High-resolution and electrically conductive three-dimensional printing of carbon nanotube-based polymer composites enabled by solution intercalation. Carbon, 194, 1-9. 2022. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbon.2022.03.042] 8. Borghetti, M., Serpelloni, M., & Sardini, E. Printed strain gauge on 3D and low-melting point plastic surface by aerosol jet printing and photonic curing. Sensors, 19(19), 4220. 2019. [https://doi.org/10.3390/s19194220] 9. Saini, P., Choudhary, V., Singh, B. P., Mathur, R. B., & Dhawan, S. K. Polyaniline–MWCNT nanocomposites for microwave absorption and EMI shielding. Materials Chemistry and Physics, 113(2-3), 919-926. 2009. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matchemphys.2008.08.065] 10. Gevorkian, A., Morozova, S. M., Kheiri, S., Khuu, N., Chen, H., Young, E., ... & Kumacheva, E. Actuation of three‐dimensional‐printed nanocolloidal hydrogel with structural anisotropy. Advanced Functional Materials, 31(17), 2010743. 2021. [https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202010743] 11. Zhou, G., Li, M. C., Liu, C., Wu, Q., & Mei, C. 3D printed Ti3C2Tx MXene/cellulose nanofiber architectures for solid‐state supercapacitors: Ink rheology, 3D printability, and electrochemical performance. Advanced Functional Materials, 32(14), 2109593. 2022. [https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202109593] 12. Lee, S. J., Jung, Y. J., Park, J., & Jang, S. H. Temperature Detectable Surface Coating with Carbon Nanotube/Epoxy Composites. Nanomaterials, 12(14), 2369. 2022. [https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12142369]

Conference: CAMX 2024 | San Diego CA

Publication Date: 2024/9/9

SKU: TP24-0000000284

Pages: 10

Price: $20.00