A novel assembled carbon black/carbon nanotubes (CB/MWCNT) nano-structured composite for pressure-sensitive conductive silicon rubber (SR)

In this paper, a novel “grape string” carbon black/multi-wall carbon nanotubes (CB/MWCNT) structure was obtained by electro-static assembly method to enhance the resistance stability of the carbon material filled silicone rubber (SR). Carbon black (CB) and multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were surface modified by sulfonic dodecyl benzene sodium and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide to provide negatively charge and positively charge, respectively. Electric conductive sheet of CB/MWCNT/SR composite was obtained by mixing and vulcanizing. The assembly effect and dispersion state of the composites were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The electrical conductivity and dynamic pressure-resistance characteristic of CB/MWCNT/SR with different doping ratio and dosage were tested. The results show that the proper weight ratio 3:2 of CB:MWCNT for electrostatic assembly can cause the stable “grape string” nano-structure. The conductivity and pressure-resistance characteristic are superior when the volume fraction of “grape string” nano-composites reaches 22%, which will provided with less filler fraction and better stress sensitivity, compared with single component carbon black filler.