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Article
Publication date: 24 August 2023

Kyle Engel, Paul Andrew Kilmartin and Olaf Diegel

The purpose of this study is to explore the synthesis of novel conductive photo-resins to produce flexible conducting composites for use in additive manufacturing. By using direct…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the synthesis of novel conductive photo-resins to produce flexible conducting composites for use in additive manufacturing. By using direct ink writing (DIW) additive manufacturing, this study aims to explore the fabrication of multimaterial devices with conductive and insulating components. Using digital light processing (DLP) additive manufacturing, this study aims to fabricate detailed objects with higher resolution than material extrusion 3D printing systems.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, several photocurable conducting resins were prepared for DIW and DLP additive manufacturing. These resins were then cured using 405 nm near UV light to create intrinsically conductive polymer (ICP) composites. The electrochemical properties of these composites were analysed, and the effect of co-monomer choice and crosslinking density was determined. These results determined a suitable resin for subsequent additive manufacture using DIW and DLP. These 3D printing techniques were used to develop flexible conducting devices of submillimetre resolution that were fabricated with unmodified, commercially available 3D printers.

Findings

Cyclic voltammetry and volume conductivity analysis of the conducting resins determined the most conductive resin formula for 3D printing. Conductive devices were fabricated using the two 3D printing techniques. A multimaterial soft conducting device was fabricated using DIW, and each conducting component was insulated from its neighbours. DLP was used to fabricate a soft conducting device with good XY resolution with a minimum feature size of 0.2 mm. All devices were prepared in unmodified commercially available 3D printers.

Practical implications

These findings have value in the development of soft robotics, artificial muscles and wearable sensors. In addition, this work highlights techniques for DIW and DLP additive manufacturing.

Originality/value

Several original conducting resin formulae were developed for use in two 3D printing systems. The resulting 3D-printed composites are soft and flexible while maintaining their conductive properties. These findings are of value to both polymer chemists and to the field of additive manufacturing.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 29 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 January 2018

Hongsheng Luo, Xingdong Zhou, Yuncheng Xu, Huaquan Wang, Yongtao Yao, Guobin Yi and Zhifeng Hao

This paper aims to exploit shape-memory polymers as self-healable materials. The underlying mechanism involved the thermal transitions as well as the enrichment of the healing…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to exploit shape-memory polymers as self-healable materials. The underlying mechanism involved the thermal transitions as well as the enrichment of the healing reagents and the closure of the crack surfaces due to shape recovery. The multi-stimuli-triggered shape memory composite was capable of self-healing under not only direct thermal but also electrical stimulations.

Design/methodology/approach

The shape memory epoxy polymer composites comprising the AgNWs and poly (ε-caprolactone) were fabricated by dry transfer process. The morphologies of the composites were investigated by the optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrical conduction and the Joule heating effect were measured. Furthermore, the healing efficiency under the different stimuli was calculated, whose dependence on the compositions was also discussed.

Findings

The AgNWs network maintained most of the pathways for the electrons transportation after the dry transfer process, leading to a superior conduction and flexibility. Consequently, the composites could trigger the healing within several minutes, as applied with relatively low voltages. It was found that the composites having more the AgNWs content had better electrically triggered performance, while 50 per cent poly (ε-caprolactone) content endowed the materials with max healing efficiency under thermal or electrical stimuli.

Research limitations/implications

The findings may greatly benefit the application of the intelligent polymers in the fields of the multifunctional flexible electronics.

Originality/value

Most studies have by far emphasized on the direct thermal triggered cases. Herein, a novel, flexible and conductive shape memory-based composite, which was capable of self-healing under the thermal or electrical stimulations, has been proposed.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 47 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 March 2018

Shu-hao Deng, Yu Wang and Xi Yang

The purpose of this paper is to improve the conductivity and processability of polyaniline (PANI).

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve the conductivity and processability of polyaniline (PANI).

Design/methodology/approach

The study opted for synthesis of the conductive PANI/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film, co-doped with 5-sulphosalicylic acid and sulphuric acid. Using an electrochemical method, a small amount of silver (Ag) was electrodeposited on the film. The PVA/PANI and PVA/PANI/Ag composite films were characterised by scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction and infrared. The composite deposition mechanism of the composite film was investigated by cyclic voltammetry for the first time.

Findings

The conductivity of the optimum PVA/PANI composite film reached 21.2 S · cm−1.Then, a small amount of Ag was deposited on the PVA/PANI film, and the conductivity significantly increased by 1250 S · cm−1. Through appropriate degree of stretching, the conductivity of the films was enhanced. The results indicate that uniform PVA/PANI fibres and dendritic Ag can combine to form complete three-dimensional conductive networks that exhibit better conductivity and mechanical properties. The cyclic voltammetry curves reveal that the dedoping potential of PANI was more negative than the reduction potential of Ag. Therefore, the procedure for the deposition of Ag on the PANI/PVA composite film cannot decrease the conductivity.

Practical implications

This paper for the first time described and revealed the effective and practical synthesis approach and composite mechanism to prepare multi-types metal-conductive polymer composites and improve the conductivity of a conductive polymer with a less expense and one-step electrochemical method.

Originality/value

This paper first explored galvanostatic oxidation to synthesise a PANI composite film to resolve the processability and conductivity of PANI by co-doped with mixed acids and deposited Ag on film. Furthermore, for the first time, the composite mechanism of metal and conductive polymer was studied.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 47 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 January 2020

Sathies T., Senthil P. and Anoop M.S.

Fabrication of customized products in low volume through conventional manufacturing incurs a high cost, longer processing time and huge material waste. Hence, the concept of…

1483

Abstract

Purpose

Fabrication of customized products in low volume through conventional manufacturing incurs a high cost, longer processing time and huge material waste. Hence, the concept of additive manufacturing (AM) comes into existence and fused deposition modelling (FDM), is at the forefront of researches related to polymer-based additive manufacturing. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the research works carried on the applications of FDM.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present paper, an extensive review has been performed related to major application areas (such as a sensor, shielding, scaffolding, drug delivery devices, microfluidic devices, rapid tooling, four-dimensional printing, automotive and aerospace, prosthetics and orthosis, fashion and architecture) where FDM has been tested. Finally, a roadmap for future research work in the FDM application has been discussed. As an example for future research scope, a case study on the usage of FDM printed ABS-carbon black composite for solvent sensing is demonstrated.

Findings

The printability of composite filament through FDM enhanced its application range. Sensors developed using FDM incurs a low cost and produces a result comparable to those conventional techniques. EMI shielding manufactured by FDM is light and non-oxidative. Biodegradable and biocompatible scaffolds of complex shapes are possible to manufacture by FDM. Further, FDM enables the fabrication of on-demand and customized prosthetics and orthosis. Tooling time and cost involved in the manufacturing of low volume customized products are reduced by FDM based rapid tooling technique. Results of the solvent sensing case study indicate that three-dimensional printed conductive polymer composites can sense different solvents. The sensors with a lower thickness (0.6 mm) exhibit better sensitivity.

Originality/value

This paper outlines the capabilities of FDM and provides information to the user about the different applications possible with FDM.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 26 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 February 2009

V. Koncar, C. Cochrane, M. Lewandowski, F. Boussu and C. Dufour

The need for sensors and actuators is an important issue in the field of smart textiles and garments. Important developments in sensing and heating textile elements consist in…

1075

Abstract

Purpose

The need for sensors and actuators is an important issue in the field of smart textiles and garments. Important developments in sensing and heating textile elements consist in using non‐metallic yarns, for instance carbon containing fibres, directly in the textile fabric. Another solution is to use electro‐conductive materials based on conductive polymer composites (CPCs) containing carbon or metallic particles. The purpose of this paper is to describe research based on the use of a carbon black polymer composite to design two electro‐conductive elements: a strain sensor and a textile heating element.

Design/methodology/approach

The composite is applied as a coating consisting of a solvent, a thermoplastic elastomer, and conductive carbon black nanoparticles. In both applications, the integration of the electrical wires for the voltage supply or signal recording is as discreet as possible.

Findings

The CPC materials constitute a well‐adapted solution for textile structures: they are very flexible, and thus do not modify the mechanical characteristics and general properties of the textile structure.

Research limitations/implications

In the case of the heating element, the use of metallic yarns as electrodes makes the final structure a more rigid. This can be improved by choosing other conducting yarns that are more flexible, or by developing knitted structures instead of woven fabrics.

Practical implications

The CPC provide a low cost solution, and the elements are usually designed so as to work with a low voltage supply.

Originality/value

The CPC has been prepared with a solvent process which is especially adapted to flexible materials like textiles. This is original in comparison to the conventional melt‐mixing process usually found in literature.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 21 no. 2/3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 November 2012

George K. Stylios

Examines the seventeenth published year of the ITCRR. Runs the whole gamut of textile innovation, research and testing, some of which investigates hitherto untouched aspects…

1099

Abstract

Examines the seventeenth published year of the ITCRR. Runs the whole gamut of textile innovation, research and testing, some of which investigates hitherto untouched aspects. Subjects discussed include cotton fabric processing, asbestos substitutes, textile adjuncts to cardiovascular surgery, wet textile processes, hand evaluation, nanotechnology, thermoplastic composites, robotic ironing, protective clothing (agricultural and industrial), ecological aspects of fibre properties – to name but a few! There would appear to be no limit to the future potential for textile applications.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 24 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 December 2019

Sathies Thangavel and Senthil Ponnusamy

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the usage of three-dimensionally (3D) printed polylactic acid (PLA)-carbon black (CB) conductive polymer composite in the measurement…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the usage of three-dimensionally (3D) printed polylactic acid (PLA)-carbon black (CB) conductive polymer composite in the measurement of the void fraction and liquid level.

Design/methodology/approach

PLA-CB conductive polymer composite is 3D printed through fused deposition modelling (FDM) technique and used as a capacitive sensor for void fraction measurement and liquid level sensing. The sensitivity of 3D printed ring and concave type capacitive sensors are compared for void fraction measurement. The effect of electrode length, thickness and pipe dimension on the capacitance achievable for the particular void fraction is studied. Concept of fringing capacitance is used for the sensing of liquid level.

Findings

Compared to the concave design comprising four electrodes, the ring-type capacitive sensor produced better results in void fraction measurement. Increase in pipe diameter and electrode length results in the enhancement of capacitance arising from specific void fraction. For a 100 mm diameter pipe, the capacitance of the 150 mm-long concave electrode (0.4 mm thick) increased from 9.98 to 67.77 pF as the void fraction decreased from 100% to 0%. Development of the fringing capacitance in 3D printed PLA-CB composite helps in the measurement of liquid level. Both parallel finger topology and interdigital electrode configuration are able to sense the liquid level.

Originality/value

Ability of the 3D printed conductive PLA-CB composite to act as a capacitive sensor is experimentally analysed. Performance of different electrode configuration is tested for both void fraction measurement and liquid level sensing. Results of experimentation prove that FDM printed PLA-CB composite is suitable for the void fraction and liquid level measurement.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 40 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 September 2021

Jared Allison, John Pearce, Joseph Beaman and Carolyn Seepersad

Additive manufacturing (AM) of thermoplastic polymers for powder bed fusion processes typically requires each layer to be fused before the next can be deposited. The purpose of…

Abstract

Purpose

Additive manufacturing (AM) of thermoplastic polymers for powder bed fusion processes typically requires each layer to be fused before the next can be deposited. The purpose of this paper is to present a volumetric AM method in the form of deeply penetrating radio frequency (RF) radiation to improve the speed of the process and the mechanical properties of the polymer parts.

Design/methodology/approach

The focus of this study was to demonstrate the volumetric fusion of composite mixtures containing polyamide (nylon) 12 and graphite powders using RF radiation as the sole energy source to establish the feasibility of a volumetric AM process for thermoplastic polymers. Impedance spectroscopy was used to measure the dielectric properties of the mixtures as a function of increasing graphite content and identify the percolation limit. The mixtures were then tested in a parallel plate electrode chamber connected to an RF generator to measure the heating effectiveness of different graphite concentrations. During the experiments, the surface temperature of the doped mixtures was monitored.

Findings

Nylon 12 mixtures containing between 10% and 60% graphite by weight were created, and the loss tangent reached a maximum of 35%. Selective RF heating was shown through the formation of fused composite parts within the powder beds.

Originality/value

The feasibility of a novel volumetric AM process for thermoplastic polymers was demonstrated in this study, in which RF radiation was used to achieve fusion in graphite-doped nylon powders.

Article
Publication date: 4 April 2022

Alexander Yu. Lyashkov, Vladimir O. Makarov and Yevhen G. Plakhtii

The paper aims to substantiate optimization directions of resettable fuses parameters to protect solar arrays from overcurrent.

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to substantiate optimization directions of resettable fuses parameters to protect solar arrays from overcurrent.

Design/methodology/approach

The method of modeling the electrophysical characteristics of resettable fuses is used.

Findings

Resettable fuses currently produced are of little use for protecting photovoltaic cells (PVC) in solar arrays from overcurrent. The volume fraction of the conductive filler should be about 0.15, near the percolation threshold. Thus, reducing the resistance by increasing the amount of filler is not possible. The matrix of the composite should consist of a material with a significant proportion of the crystalline phase to ensure a sharp increase in the composite's volume near the melting point. Using a polymer with a lower melting point instead of polyethylene can reduce the power required to switch a resettable fuses.

Originality/value

The possibility of using resettable fuses based on polymer composite materials with a positive temperature coefficient of resistance to protect photovoltaic solar cells from current overloads is considered. Modeling of the electrophysical characteristics of modern industrial fuses of this type based on polyethylene-nanocarbon composites has been carried out. The limits of their applicability for the protection of photovoltaic solar cells are analyzed. On the basis of the obtained results, the optimization directions of the resettable fuses parameters for use in the protection circuits of PVC of solar array are determined.

Details

Multidiscipline Modeling in Materials and Structures, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1573-6105

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 December 2017

Petr Slobodian, Pavel Riha, Robert Olejnik and Jiri Matyas

The synergistic effect of functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) using KMnO4 oxidation and initial tensile deformation on the electrical resistance of nanotube…

Abstract

Purpose

The synergistic effect of functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) using KMnO4 oxidation and initial tensile deformation on the electrical resistance of nanotube network/polyurethane composite subjected to elongation was studied.

Design/methodology/approach

Though the initial deformation irreversibly changed the arrangement of carbon nanotube network, subsequent cyclic elongation confirmed stable resistance values. The increased strain-dependent resistance of stimulated nanotube network/polyurethane composite was demonstrated by monitoring vibration of tambour leather after a bead impact and finger flexion.

Findings

The results showed a tenfold composite resistance increase for the composite prepared from KMnO4 oxidized nanotubes, quantified by a so-called gauge factor, from a value of about 20 in comparison to the network prepared from pristine nanotubes. This is a substantial increase, which ranks the stimulated composite among materials with the highest electromechanical response.

Originality/value

The results in this paper are new and have not been published yet. The paper combines different ideas which are developed together. It presents a new concept of synergistic effect of CNT oxidation and application of pre-strain simulation. Oxidation and pre-strain increases by several times the sensitivity of the tested composites which are predetermined for use as strain sensors of various sizes and shapes.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 38 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Keywords

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