Three-dimensional graphene-based composite for flexible electronic applications

Abstract

Flexible and stretchable electronics have aroused tremendous attentions in the field of stretchable circuits, wearable electronic devices, artificial tissues and biomedical sensors. To realize the function of these devices, one critical parameter is to retain the high conductivity under mechanical deformations. A solution to this challenge is to form a hybrid conductive architecture where elastomeric components can be integrated. In this research, we report on a facile synthesis of graphene aerogel via spontaneous reduction. The porous structure of the aerogel greatly facilitates the incorporation of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) elastomer into the graphene framework. The graphene/PDMS composite has demonstrated a high conductivity of 95 S/m and less than 20% resistance variation under different bending conditions. With unique electrical feature and robust mechanical strength, the as-fabricated graphene/PDMS composite poses the great potential as flexible interconnect materials.