Electro-mechanical sensing performance of three-dimensional graphene aerogel multifunctional composites under ultra-large deformations

Utilizing large-scaled graphene oxide (LGO) sheets, three dimensional (3D) graphene aerogels (GAs) nanostructures were fabricated as a macroscopic monolithic from individual graphene sheets by modified hydrothermal reduction and followed by freeze-drying process. Due to Because of the well-interconnected 3D networks, larger stacking interfaces and strong π-π interactions between graphene sheets, GAs presents well-shaped and self-supported hierarchical nano nanostructures with high porosity, ultralight density, ultra-high and high electrical conductivity. By ice-bath assisted infiltration and vacuum curing process, GAs was incorporated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to fabricate conductive composites and explore extensive applications in macroscopic scale. Based on originally well-connected 3D conductive networks of graphene sheets, GA/PDMS composites (GAPCs), freeing from the constraints of matrix on conductive properties, exhibit excellent electro-mechanical and stable piezo-resistance effect, significant improvement of electrical (~ 1 S/cm). The multifunctional GAPC offers promise in applications such as stretchable electrodes and ultra-large strain sensors.