Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Flexible Ag-Plated Particles and Their Composites

Abstract

Conductive composites typically have low elastic moduli for mitigating stresses that develop during use, allowing a wide range of applications. Such properties have depended on the mechanical properties of the matrix as the filler has a comparatively high elastic modulus. In this research, Ag-coated fillers with low elastic modulus were developed with emphasis on controlling the mechanical properties of the composite while maintaining its conductive properties.

The two types of developed fillers, Ag-coated resin and Ag-coated rubber particles, were found to have elastic moduli less than 1.8 × 10⁹ Pa, considerably lower than the 8.0 × 10¹⁰ Pa of conventional Ag particles. Composite samples of both particles formed with an epoxy resin showed corresponding results; in particular, the sample with Ag-coated rubber particles was found to have 1/5 of the elastic modulus, yet with comparative conductive properties.