Stretchable, stabilized‐conductive XNBR/PEDOT:PSS composites based on bottom‐deposited structure

Abstract

Conductive composites have attracted much attention due to its high conductivity, stretchability, and sensitivity. However, designing conductive composites with relatively stable conductivity under 100% deformation using simple methods remains a challenge. In this work, we employ a simple and straightforward approach to prepare a poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) solution. Based on the conductivity‐optimized PEDOT:PSS (5.95 S/cm), it was combined with carboxylated acrylonitrile‐butadiene rubber latex (XNBRL) to make a flexible conductive material with a unique bottom‐deposited structure. The incorporation of PEDOT:PSS establishes an interconnected conductive network within the XNBR, enhancing both the tensile strength (from 0.31 to 1.24 MPa) and conductivity of the composites. Remarkably, even at 100% strain, the resistance change (ΔR/R0) in the composite remains minimal (<2), demonstrating its exceptional flexibility and high electrical conductivity while maintaining relatively stable resistance during cyclic stretching at 50% deformation. Moreover, the conductive composite can maintain good relative resistance stability under different tensile rates and different strains. This conductive XNBR/PEDOT:PSS composite has promising application prospects in medical devices, which require relatively stable and high conductivity over a relatively large deformation.Highlights A simple method to increase the electrical conductivity of aqueous PEDOT:PSS. Flexible conductive composite with a small change in ΔR/R0. Enables rigid PEDOT to be used in stretchable electronic devices. Construction of 3D conductive network and bottom deposition structure.