Low Skin-Pressure Strain Sensor Based on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes and Silicone Rubber for Orthopedic Applications

Recently, the development of wearable sensors has garnered increasing attention in the scientific community. This study introduces a strain sensor based on a composite material made of platinum-catalyzed silicone and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), which exhibits a very low tensile strength. This process improved both the mechanical and electrical properties of the composite. The main goal is to obtain a strain sensor capable of detecting low deformations, while exhibiting very low tensile resistance to avoid excessive pressure on the useŕs skin. The studied composite material shows a GF of 15 at 120% strain for specimens containing 2 phr MWCNTs and 0.064 MPa tensile strength. The results highlight the sensor’s potential for integration into orthopedic products, as it can detect muscle activity with minimal user interaction.