Nanotech approaches were explored for design of materials with uncommon properties. Upon infiltration of nanotube forests with polymer binder, we obtained highly elastic and electrically conductive composite sheets that provided reproducible changes in resistivity upon stretching for strains over 40%. Composites can be used for high deformation resistive strain sensors, skin-like materials and stretchable membranes. When heated with alternating current or a near-IR laser, nanotube assemblies generated loud, audible sound characteristic of thermo- or photo-acoustic transducers. Applications include sound generation, noise cancellation, advanced imaging. While working in the actuator area we discovered that electrolyte-filled twist-spun carbon nanotube yarns function as torsional artificial muscles, providing a reversible rotation. We also show that macroscopic mats prepared from graphene oxide nanoribbons exhibit reversible strain generation of 1.6% and maximum work capacity of 40 J/kg when electrically heated at ambient conditions. Actuators can be used for micro- and opto-electromechanical systems, various micro-fluidic devices.

Carbon nanotube and graphene assemblies for strain sensing, sound generation, and actuation

245th National Meeting (2013)

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