Solution-processed Ni–CNTs filled ferroelectric P(VDF–TrFE) composites with improved dielectric properties and thermal conductivity

Dielectric composites made using two kinds of poly(vinylidene fluoride–trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF–TrFE)] (70/30 and 80/20 mol%) as polymer matrices and nickel particles coated carbon nanotubes (Ni–CNTs) as filler were developed via solution-processed method. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated good compatibility and dispersion of Ni–CNTs in the P(VDF–TrFE) matrix. Ni–CNTs/P(VDF–TrFE) composites exhibited high dielectric constants with low dielectric losses. The maximum dielectric constants of Ni–CNTs/P(VDF–TrFE) composites of 198 and 185 at 100 Hz were obtained at 18.0 wt% Ni–CNTs loading, respectively. The incorporation of Ni–CNTs in the P(VDF–TrFE) matrix resulted in enhanced thermal conductivity. The highest values, obtained at 18.0 wt% Ni–CNTs loading, were 1.05 and 1.03 W/m K, respectively. Although there were no very obvious difference, the dielectric properties and thermal conductivity of Ni–CNTs/P(VDF–TrFE) 70/30 mol% composites were slightly better to those of Ni–CNTs/P(VDF–TrFE) 80/20 mol% composites in many cases. The aforementioned results suggest that these high-performance composites hold great promise for application in electrical and electronic field.