3D Printed Mechanical Sensors using Block Copolymer Nanocomposites

3D printing has been widely applied to design and manufacturing processes in diverse industries. However, few available materials and a lack of understanding of their behaviors limit the possibilities to produce smart devices with 3D printers. Here, 3D printable functional materials using block copolymers and nanoparticles are introduced. Changes in mechanical and electrical properties as a function of different block copolymer morphologies and nanoparticle concentrations were investigated. This new functional material can be used to fabricate high quality piezo-resistive sensors applicable to wearable electronics, soft robotics, and nano-bio research.