Polymer/Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites For Strain Sensing Applications

Abstract The integration of nanomaterials, particularly carbon nanotubes (CNTs), into polymer matrices has enabled the development of advanced functional materials. The research investigates the potential of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) reinforced with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as a strain-sensing material. MWCNT loadings of 0.1 wt%, 0.5 wt%, and 1.0 wt% are investigated. The study examines the correlation between applied strain and the resulting change in electrical conductivity of the nanocomposite, encompassing material preparation, characterisation, and performance evaluation. The results demonstrate the feasibility of MWCNT/HDPE nanocomposites as sensitive and reproducible strain sensors, exhibiting a clear piezoresistive response.