A review on thermal and electrical behaviours of liquid metal-based polymer composites

Abstract

Liquid metals (LM) have attracted tremendous attention in the last decade, especially in the fabrication of LM-based polymer composites (LMPCs), due to the unique combination of their metallic and fluidic properties. Thermal and electrical behaviours of LMPCs are the main interests, which is closely to their applications in wearable devices, soft robots and other fields. In this review, we summarize the main fabrication strategies of LMPCs, including infusing, mechanical grinding, mechanical shearing, and sonication. In addition, the electrical and thermal properties of LMPCs are analyzed. Moreover, the applications of LMPCs are described, including multifunctional circuits, electromagnetic interference shielding materials, thermal management, and flexible sensors. The challenges and perspectives in developing LMPCs would also be identified and interpreted to better guide future research.