Enhanced piezoresistivity of polymer-derived SiCN ceramics by regulating divinylbenzene-induced free carbon

In-situ formed free carbon nanodomain is an unique feature of polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs), which plays a significant role to affect the properties of PDCs, especially for the electoral property and piezoresistivity. In this study we report an enhanced piezoresistive properties of amorphous silicon carbonitrides (SiCN) ceramics derived by divinylbenzene (DVB)-modified polysilazane. Microstructure analysis indicated that the free carbon phase in SiCN ceramics is gradually increasing in order degree and concentration with increasing content of DVB. The average spacing between the conducting particles decreases with increasing concentration of free carbon, resulting in an enhanced internal electric field. The effects of DVB concentration on the piezoresistive properties of SiCN ceramics are also discussed, finding that the DVB has a significant effect on the piezoresistive properties.