Polymer Composites with Nanomaterials for Strain Gauging: A Review

Strain gauges and strain gauge transducers are important tools in the field of material resistance research to measure the stresses and strains in solids. These methods and devices have a wide range of applications, from construction to mechanical engineering, where the mechanical properties of materials need to be monitored and optimized. The use of nanomaterials in strain gauges allows for more sensitive and compact sensors. Nanotechnology makes it possible to create strain gauges with improved mechanical and electrical properties. At the same time, nanomaterials have unique properties that make them ideal for use in strain gauges. This paper considers different types of composites based on polymer matrices with additives of dispersed nanomaterials, which are designed for strain gauge tasks. Thermoplastics and elastomers can be used as polymer matrices. Dispersed fillers can be based on MXene and nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, metals, etc. Despite the obvious advantages of strain gauges based on conducting polymers modified with dispersed structures, there are problems in creating effective strain gauges with the ability to operate under large deformations with an improved sensitivity and accuracy of measurements in a wide range. This article also provides brief information on the technical evolution of strain gauges, from wire and foil to polymer nanocomposites. A modern classification of strain gauges is provided. The disadvantages and advantages of existing strain gauges are shown. The review contains information on commercial strain gauges. The mechanisms of electrical conductivity formation in polymer composites for strain gauges are described in detail. The areas of application of polymer nanocomposite strain gauges are also specified in detail. The purpose of this review study is to determine the prospects for the use of various nanomaterials as additives in polymers to create strain gauges. The review is aimed at a wide range of readers.