Stretching new nanocomposite material boosts heat and electricity flow
A joint research team from Sungkyunkwan University developed a stretchable nanocomposite that improves thermal and electrical conductivity when pulled, with findings published in Advanced Functional Materials.
Material design defies normal rules
Researchers dispersed silver particles inside silicone rubber to create the new composite. Usually stretching a material pushes particles apart and reduces conductivity. This team designed the substance so that pulling it actually increases heat and electrical movement.
Quantum tunneling enables electron flow
The silver particles measure 3.4 nanometers in size with gaps of just 4.1 nanometers between them. Keeping the space between particles under 10 nanometers allows electrons to cross barriers through quantum tunneling. This mechanism lets heat escape even while the device bends or stretches.
Application targets foldable phones
Smartphones and other electronics generate significant heat during operation which can shorten their lifespan. Flexible devices face specific challenges because cooling is difficult when they deform. The new material helps solve this problem by maintaining stable heat dissipation.
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