Micro-patterning of nanocomposites of polymer and carbon nanotubes

This paper reports on the development of processes to form micro-scale dimension structures of nanocomposite material of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and poly vinyl alcohol (PVA). The nanocomposite structures were formed in free-standing form and as patterns on a flexible substrate. MWCNT–PVA nanocomposite films and patterns were characterized for their electrical and mechanical properties. Patterned nanocomposite layers exhibited a significant contrast in electrical conductivity between the areas with nanocomposite patterns and those with no patterns. The conductivity and tensile strength of nanocomposite film could be conveniently controlled by adjusting the MWCNT and PVA weight ratios. The fabrication processes reported here can be conceivably used in thin film devices and flexible microsystems.

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