Title: Exploring the Effects of Microstructure on the Strain Sensing Behavior of Carbon Nanotube and Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Films

Authors: Joshua DeGraff, Matt Kurlich, Philip Robertson, Anghea Dolisca, Jerry Horne, Richard Liang

DOI: 10.33599/nasampe/s.24.0236

Abstract: New materials have emerged in the realm of sensing, and it has led to the development of systems that can facilitate preventative maintenance through structural health monitoring (SHM). More specifically, strain gauges have become the core instrument for SHM. To enhance SHM systems for widespread adoption, the sensitivity of strain gauges needs to be improved to uncover critical structural information in brittle materials (i.e., fiber-reinforced composites and ceramics). Compared to the commercial status quo, carbon nanotube buckypaper (CNT-BP) films have displayed 8x higher sensitivity; however, strain range has been limited. As a result, CNT-based strain gauges are most suitable for stiff and brittle structures with low failure strain. This research will seek to improve the strain range of CNT films by manufacturing and testing various forms of CNT-BP including films comprised of long nanotubes, silver nanowires, and graphene. Each form of CNT-BP offers a unique microstructure that can influence sensing performance by altering the electromechanical coupling among the nanotubes. The goal of this research is to establish robust structure-property-performance relationships through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrical testing, and strain sensing performance to advance the design and manufacturing of CNT-based sensors in SHM.

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Conference: SAMPE 2024

Publication Date: 2024/05/20

SKU: TP24-0000000236

Pages: 18

Price: $36.00