Optimally conductive networks in randomly dispersed CNT:graphene hybrids

Abstract

A predictive model is proposed that quantitatively describes the synergistic behavior of the electrical conductivities of CNTs and graphene in CNT:graphene hybrids. The number of CNT-to-CNT, graphene-to-graphene, and graphene-to-CNT contacts is calculated assuming a random distribution of CNTs and graphene particles in the hybrids and using an orientation density function. Calculations reveal that the total number of contacts reaches a maximum at a specific composition and depends on the particle sizes of the graphene and CNTs. The hybrids, prepared using inkjet printing, are distinguished by higher electrical conductivities than that of 100% CNT or graphene at certain composition ratios. These experimental results provide strong evidence that this approach involving constituent element contacts is suitable for investigating the properties of particulate hybrid materials.

Near perfect thin film flexible broadband optical absorber with high thermal/electrical conductivity

“…Poor electrical conductivity of polymers is another problem, which limits the use of polymer composites in many applications. It is observed that the use of well dispersed network of CNTs with high electrical conductivity improves electrical properties of the nanocomposite in which they are added. The effect on electrical conductivity of PDMS after addition of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes is investigated next.…”

“…The conductivity of CNT‐based nanocomposites is viewed as a combined effect of the conductivity of the filler as well as that of interphase region surrounding the VACNTs . Consequently, their addition in otherwise insulating PDMS provides a conducting path and leads to the observed improvement in electrical conductivity of pure PDMS. With the reduction of sheet resistance (0.08 KΩ/sq), PDMS‐VACNT array finds huge applications in the flexible‐stretchable electronics, energy storage devices, flexible strain sensor, flexible pressure sensors, stretchable circuits, flexible displays, and electronic skins .…”

Incorporation of Conductive Materials into Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering Applications

“…In particular, hybridizing multiple conductive materials improves conductivity compared to that of a single conductive material. For example, it has been confirmed that a specific proportion of CNT:graphene hybrid material has a higher conductivity than a 100% CNT or graphene material [116].…”

Improving dispersion of multi-walled carbon nanotubes and graphene using a common non-covalent modifier

“…11). The hybrid buckypapers showed the highest electrical conductivity at a volume ratio (9:1) of Pw-MWCNT and Pw-G, demonstrating that the randomly dispersed MWCNTs and the graphene together provide a synergistic effect by increasing the conducting network [35].…”