Stretchable Nanocomposite Conductors Enabled by 3D Segregated Dual-Filler Network

Flexible and stretchable electrical conductors are needed in a wide range of applications to maintain electrical conductance under large deformation. Herein a new type of stretchable electrical conductor capable of large deformation is reported. Using a simple and cost-effective dip-coating technique, conductive nanomaterials including sliver nanowires (AgNWs) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs) are deposited onto the surface of polyurethane foam, forming a 3D segregated conductive network. The pores are subsequently infused with elastomeric polymethylsiloxane. Upon curing, the resultant nanocomposite is highly conductive even under large strain. Compared with nanocomposites made of a single type of conductive nanomaterial, the nanocomposite obtained by sequential dip-coating with AgNWs and then CNFs give the best performance, due to the synergetic effect between the two conductive nanomaterials. This highly conductive nanocomposites can withstand large mechanical deformations, including stretching, twisting, and bending while maintain its high electrical conductivity. With a low-cost and simple fabrication process, these newly developed conductive nanocomposites offer a new type of stretchable conductors for wearable electronics.