Graphite Enhanced GNP/PVA Composite Piezoresistor with a Stable Loading Response

Abstract

This study introduced graphite particle enhanced graphene nanoplatelet (GNP)/Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanocomposite piezoresistor. The intention was to explore and use the synergy between graphite particles (GPs) and GNPs. The role of the GPs would be to create the backbone for conduction paths. Hence, they can reduce the variations in the conductive path formation as the number of cycles increases. The GNPs’ on the other hand, is to enhance the piezoresistive effect of the nanocomposite piezoresistor. Different filler ratios of the GPs and associated synergy with the GNPs were examined. As the GPs constituted the backbone for conduction, they decreased the sensitivity loss under cycling loading. The synergy assured repeatable and consistent Gauge factor over the cycles and a linear response to the applied strain. The piezoresistor was produced in ink that allows the application with a spatula or a brush on a substrate. This application method provides structural health monitoring of the materials with an easy application. In our study, plexiglass was selected as the substrate. Their response under cycling loading was examined as a function of resistance change of composite piezoresistor. The data was collected via a multimeter.