Electrical and mechanical reinforcement mechanism of carbonized polyacrylonitrile phase on graphene interlayers for flexible sensing applications

Graphene films have limited their applications in flexible sensing due to internal micro-discontinuities and weak interlayer forces. For this reason, carbonized polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was used to cross-link graphene sheets and enhance the interlayer relationships of graphene. Thermal treatment at 250 ºC significantly improved PAN@GOM's structural stability and electrical conductivity, which is key for flexible-sensing devices. This study employs innovative characterization techniques, such as thickness-direction resistance measurement, wear testing, and pressure stability evaluation, to assess the electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and long-term stability of PAN@GOM. The results showed significant conductivity, mechanical strength, and pressure stability improvements, confirming the samples' suitability for long-term flexible sensing applications.