Novel Sulfur‐Containing Carbon Nanotubes with Graphene Nanoflaps for Stretchable Sensing, Joule Heating, and Electro‐Thermal Actuating

Abstract

Stretchable conductors based on nanopercolation networks have garnered great attention for versatile applications. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are well‐suited for creating high‐efficiency nanopercolation networks. However, the weak interfacial shear strength (IFSS) between CNTs and elastomer hardly dissipates the deformation energy and thus deteriorates the conductive network. Herein, a novel sulfur‐containing CNTs attached with abundant graphene nanoflaps using a two‐step sulfidation strategy are developed. The sulfur functionality creates a strong interfacial interaction with the elastomer polymer, while the graphene nanoflaps provide an enhanced, intertwined shear interface with elastomer that is capable of efficiently dissipating the deformation energy. As a result, the optimized nanocomposite significantly improves the IFSS between nanofiller and elastomer, displaying remarkable conductive robustness (ΔR/R0≈1.8 under 200%), superior stretchability (> 450%), and excellent mechanical durability (≈30 000 cycles). Moreover, the nanocomposite demonstrates excellent Joule heating efficiency (≈150 °C in 12 V), stretchable heating conversion (≈200%), and long‐term stability (> 24 h). To illustrate its capabilities, the nanocomposite is used to track human physiological signals and perform electric‐thermal actuating as a set of soft tongs. It is believed that this innovative approach will provide value for the development of wearable/stretchable devices, as well as human‐machine interaction, and bio‐robotics in the future.

Tailoring Interfaces of All-Carbon Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Materials for Boosting Comprehensive Performance

“…With continuous development, not only excellent EMI shielding performance but also other integrated functions are demanded for EMI shielding material. − For example, good thermal conversion abilities are crucial for severe cold environmental scenarios such as aerospace and icy areas. ,, Carbon nanotube has been known to have outstanding photothermal conversion capability and excellent Joule heating properties. ,− Therefore, we subsequently tested the thermal management properties of the CMC composites. Figure a,b demonstrates that the temperature of CMC-C rises rapidly from room temperature to nearly 50 °C within 40 s under the irradiation of 0.1 W cm –2 from simulated sunlight.…”

Fast‐Photocurable, Mechanically Robust, and Malleable Cellulosic Bio‐Thermosets Based on Hindered Urea Bond for Multifunctional Electronics

“…It should be noted that the surface temperature of the CMTs/silver composite reached ≈70 o C only required a low driving voltage, which was lower than that of the previous reports. [55][56][57][58] However, as the DC voltage increased to 4 V, the surface temperature of CMTs/silver composite reached 128 °C with the appearance of slight burns (Figure S11, Supporting Information), indicating the maximum bearing temperature of CMTs/silver composite was ≈120 °C.…”

Dual-functional thermal management textiles for dynamic temperature regulation based on ultra-stretchable spiral conductive composite yarn with 500%-strain thermal stability and durability

“…In addition, PTM textiles based on textile substrates are not stretchable as the interconnected conductive networks disintegrate under stretching, which seriously decreases the sensitivity and function of wearable electronics. 21 In particular, in complex and outdoor scenarios, PTM materials need to have stable performance under flexibility and under large strain and complex microclimate changes, due to human activity. 22 Although various PTM devices have been developed based on fabric substrates, few studies have focused on fiber-based wearable PTM devices.…”