A novel,stretchable, silver-coated polyolefin elastomer nanofiber membrane for strain sensor applications

In this study, we prepared a novel, stretchable, and porous polyolefin elastomer (POE) nanofiber membrane (NM) on the basis of a high-throughput, low-cost, environmentally friendly melt-blending method. To obtain an excellent conductivity, we prepared the Ag–POE composite NM via a facile and effective method of electroless plating. Via the control of the pretreatment process and concentration of the reactant, a homogeneous Ag layer formed on the surface of the POE nanofibers without damaging the original thermal and mechanical properties. Because of the good stretchability, conductivity, and porosity, the Ag–POE NM was used as a strain sensor to detect the pressure and airflow. When the silver nitrate concentration was 4 g/L, a good sensitivity and durability were obtained. The current change accurately recorded the deformation of the membrane under different pressures and air flows. The results of this study provide us with an industrial method to prepare Ag–POE NM and indicate its potential application as a strain sensor for outer stimuli detection. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019 , 136, 47928.