Experimental investigation of a hybrid nickel-carbon black polydimethylsiloxane conductive nanocomposite

This paper presents an experimental investigation of single and hybrid carbon black and spiky nickel-filled conductive composite to understand the synergy effect when different types and shapes of fillers are combined in a silicone polymer matrix. The electrical and mechanical properties of the conductive composites are measured under a compressive loading cycle. The results showed that the electrical properties of the hybrid conductive polymer composites have a better repeatability at low filler ratio as compared to the virgin nickel or carbon black composite. The new hybrid composite piezoresistive behavior is similar to a high filler ratio nickel composite. This study provided insights to develop a tailored conductive composite with a low mass-ratio and different morphology of fillers.