A review on electrically conductive polyurethane nanocomposites: From principle to application

Abstract Polyurethanes (PUs) thanks to the occurrence of phase separation and biphasic structure prevail over other polymer matrixes for impregnation of conductive fillers and production of conductive composites. A number of carbonous fillers including carbon black, carbon fiber, carbon nanotube, graphite and its derivatives, and fullerene can be loaded into the PU matrixes to impart electrical conductivity. The properties of the carbonous fillers, the filler/PU interactions, and the method of compositing determine the conductive performance of the composite. It is possible to modulate the properties of the conductive PU composites and employ them for a number of electronic applications including but not limited to the strain sensors, electromagnetic interference shielding materials, supercapacitors, and tissue engineering scaffolds. In the present review, first, the distinctive properties of PU as a matrix of conductive composites have been discussed. Then, various carbon fillers loaded into the PU matrixes and their structural and conductive properties have been debated. Thereafter, the fabrication methods of the conductive composites as well as the influential parameters on the electrical properties of the composites have been reviewed to provide an insight into how fulfill a PU composite with the desired electrical performance. And finally, a number of applications of conductive PU composites have been put forward. Highlights Polyurethanes are very capable matrixes for conductive composites. Carbonous fillers can be loaded into the PU matrixes to impart conductivity. Conductive PU composites are employed for a number of electronic applications. Herein, properties, fillers, and applications of PU composites are reviewed.