Impact of Carbon Nanotubes on the Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Silicone

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a structure study of a dispersion composite on a silicone matrix with a filler in the form of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The study aims to determine the effect of the filler on the composite mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. Materials that are electrically conductive and exhibit high mechanical properties can find applications in high-strain sensors. During the study, the characteristic properties of the susceptible materials, silicone alone and silicone with different filler contents (4%, 6%, and 8% by weight), were determined after curing. Microscopic observations were performed to assess the influence of carbon fillers on the material structure and to determine the level of homogeneity of the material. Examination of mechanical properties facilitated the determination of the Shor A hardness (ShA), stiffness, and Poisson’s ratio of the cured composites, depending on the nanotubes’ content. In parallel with the study of mechanical properties, the effect of loading, and the associated deformation of the samples, on the conductivity of the composite was investigated. Based on the results obtained, a discussion was carried out on the type of conductivity characteristic of silicone with different filler content as well as depending on the level of deformation of the samples.