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Researchers Demonstrate Elastic Conductors

Published: 08 August 2008
 by Staff
TOKYO – Researcher at the University of Tokyo have developed a rubbery conducting material from a mix carbon nanotubes and a polymer material. The nanotubes retain current carrying capability after being encapsulated by the polymer that provides flexibility.

To reduce clumping of the carbon nanotubes an ionic liquid was used to create a black, pasty concoction the researchers call bucky gel. The bucky gel was then mixed with a rubber-like substance called a fluorinated copolymer and poured onto a glass plate. The researchers then coated the substance with silicone rubber and punched tiny holes all over the matrix to increase its flexibility.

The resulting material can be stretched by up to 38% of its original length without loss of conductivity because enough of the nanotubes stay in contact to continue to carry electricity.  

This technology is expected to help integrate electronics into the human body, where a high level of flexibility is required.

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