Non-destructive estimation of conductive network constructed by 1D fillers in polymer composites via small angel X-ray scattering

Efficient and non-destructive estimation of conductive network in conductive polymer composites is now becoming an urgent issue than ever owing to the rapid rise of modern electronic industry. Nevertheless, traditional observation and estimation method inevitably cause damage and distortion to sample, demanding urgent development of a non-destructive fidelity detection methodology. In this study, the degree of network formation of carbon nano-fibers in polymer matrix was calculated based on small-angle X-ray diffraction (SAXS). The degree of fiber network construction based on the power law coefficient (A) has been proved to be valid and effective in comparison with other testing methods. Moreover, a mathematical model was established to predict the electrical conductivity of the conductive polymer composite. This study not only solves the problem of non-destructive testing of fiber network construction, but also provides theoretical guidance for the design of conductive polymer composites.