CNT network modeling and simulation of the electrical properties of CNT/PNN-PZT/epoxy paint sensor

In this study, the electrical properties of Carbon nanotubes (CNT)/PNN-PZT/epoxy paint sensor, a kind of piezoelectric composites, were simulated to explain the effect of the dispersion state of Multiwalled CNT (MWCNT) in the paint sensor on sensor characteristics. The conductivity of the CNT/PNN-PZT/epoxy paint was calculated by the 3D resistor network simulation in consideration of the length, dispersion state, and volume fraction of MWCNT. The electrical property of the paint sensor was predicted efficiently by a simple simulation method. Both the conductivity of the piezoelectric composite and the percolation threshold of MWCNT in the piezoelectric composite were simulated according to the dispersion state of MWCNT in the composite. Finally, the simulation results were compared and verified with experimental data.