Direct-write fabrication of polymer nanocomposite fibers

Scott M. Berry, Santosh Pabba, Scott D. Cambron, Robert W. Cohn, Robert S. Keynton

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

The unique properties of carbon-nanotube (CNT)-doped polymers have generated several promising applications including gas sensors, high-strength/light-weight materials, and electromagnetic interference shielding. The ability to process CNT-doped materials into complex architectures may enable further advancement of these devices. We have developed a directwrite technique for processing CNT-doped poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) into 3D arrays of precisely-positioned, semiconductive fibers with micro- and sub-microscale diameters. In this method, a programmable micromanipulator- controlled syringe was loaded with solvated CNT/PMMA and utilized to draw an array of freely-suspended solution filaments on a substrate in a "connect-the-dots" fashion. As the filaments are drawn, they are thinned by surface tensiondriven necking as they dry and form solid fibers. The degree of thinning can be controlled by varying the PMMA concentration or the fiber length.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMaterials Research Society Symposium Proceedings - Nano- and Microscale Materials-Mechanical Properties and Behavior under Extreme Environments
Pages78-82
Number of pages5
StatePublished - 2008
EventNano- and Microscale Materials-Mechanical Properties and Behavior under Extreme Environments - Boston, MA, United States
Duration: Dec 1 2008Dec 5 2008

Publication series

NameMaterials Research Society Symposium Proceedings
Volume1137
ISSN (Print)0272-9172

Conference

ConferenceNano- and Microscale Materials-Mechanical Properties and Behavior under Extreme Environments
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBoston, MA
Period12/1/0812/5/08

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Materials Science
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Mechanical Engineering

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