Application of self-heating graphene reinforced polyvinyl alcohol nanowires to high-sensitivity humidity detection

Zhao Chi Chen, Tien Li Chang*, Kai Wen Su, Hsin Sheng Lee, Jung Chang Wang

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In this study, we measured the performance of self-heating conductive conjugated polyvinyl alcohol, (PVA)/graphene (G) composite nanofibers in the detection of environmental humidity. PVA-G polymer nanocomposite fibers were electrospun together from suspensions of PVA and varying concentrations of pristine G sheets. The extent of graphene dispersion in the nanocomposite fibers were characterized via Raman and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. Where the main content of C and O elements in composite nanofibers were obtained from the energy dispersive (EDX) spectra and EDX mapping results. Thermal characteristics and structural morphology were then investigated through thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) & laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM), respectively. Applied voltages (0−10 V) to the PVA-G polymer nanocomposite fibers under varying conditions of humidity were investigated. With increasing concentration of G, increased sensitivity to relative humidity could be observed through the proportional changes in resistance. In addition, at PVA-G concentrations at 6%, the tested humidity sensor remained highly responsive while operating at low temperatures of 60 °C and with minimal power consumption.

Original languageEnglish
Article number128934
JournalSensors and Actuators, B: Chemical
Volume327
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021 Jan 15

Keywords

  • Electrospun nanofibers
  • Gas detection
  • Humidity detection
  • Low temperature
  • PVA-G composite
  • Self-heating device

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Instrumentation
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Surfaces, Coatings and Films
  • Metals and Alloys
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Materials Chemistry

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