XOnano Pressure sensing Smartfoam is a foam based pressure sensor, this multifunctional material both protects and senses. The Smartfoam functions through a piezoresistive response, the resistance decreases as increased pressure or force are applied to the foam. Similar to Smartfoam Impact, Smartfoam Pressure is created by adding conductive particles and fibers to liquid foam. Quantum tunneling allows electrons to pass through the foam as it compresses. More compression facilitates more quantum tunneling. The change in resistance can be measured and correlated to force or pressure.
The chart below shows the how the resistance of a foam sample changes as a load is applied repeatedly. Before the load is applied, the resistance is nearly infinite. As it compresses, more and more quantum tunneling takes place and the resistance decreases.
Smartfoam Pressure requires conductive electrodes to be attached to the foam so that the resistance can be measured. The total area of these electrodes will affect the measurement, but proper calibration will ensure accurate readings.
Some potential applications include: pressure sensing seating, force feedback for robotics, gaskets that measure compression, and weight-sensing mats. If you think that Smartfoam Pressure would be a good fit in your application, please get in touch with us!