Flexible, hybrid nanofibrous capacitive pressure sensor for self-healing electronics

Abstract

In recent times, capacitive pressure sensors have played a crucial role in detecting both physiological and sensible signals. Composite-based nanofibrous flexible capacitive pressure sensors show high sensitivity and good response time. In the present research work, polyaniline (PANI)/magnesium-doped copper calcium titanate (MCCTO) composite nanofibers blended with polyethylene oxide (PEO) were fabricated as a hybrid, flexible capacitive pressure sensor. The composite nanofibers were fabricated using an electrospinning technique, and electrical properties like AC conductivity, dielectric loss, and dielectric constant were studied for the prepared MCCTO and composite nanofibers. The prepared composite nanofibers were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Electromechanical properties like pressure sensing performance, sensitivity, and response time were analysed for the fabricated sensor, and it showed a sensitivity of 0.12 kPa⁻¹ for a low-pressure range of 0 kPa to 5 kPa at response times of 2.1 s and 2.3 s when the pressure was applied and released, respectively. The fabricated sensor was investigated at different pressure levels, and it showed reliable responses. The fabricated nanofibers were also tested for self-healing, and its impact on capacitive pressure sensor were examined; it was proven that the fabricated pressure sensor are suitable for self-healing applications.