Optimizing piezoresistive response of carbon nanotube-cellulose nanocrystal composites

This study explores the effect of straining angle on the piezoresistive behaviour of carbon nanotube (CNT)-cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) composites. By varying the angle between the directions of strain and tunnelling distance, the research investigates the impact on composite strain sensing sensitivity. Additionally, the optimal CNC weight fraction that maximizes the piezoresistive performance under elastic strain is determined using a polynomial interpolation of a validated analytical model. The findings indicate that the ideal case is when the direction of strain is parallel to the average tunnelling distance direction, and 0.5 % is the optimal CNC weight content for elastic strains. These findings may provide valuable insights for designing high-performance and sustainable strain sensors based on CNT-CNC composites. • The optimal piezoresistive effect is obtained when the average tunnelling distance and strain directions are both parallel. • The optimal CNC weight fraction in the elastic zone in terms of piezoresistivity sensitivity is 0.5 %. • The angle between the directions of strain and average tunnelling distance becomes perpendicular for lower sensitivity.