Fabrication of a Hybrid Carbon-Based Composite for Flexible Heating Element With a Zero Temperature Coefficient of Resistance

We report on a hybrid carbon-based composite for zero temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) heating element, forming edge-island type composite comprised of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon blacks (CBs) with a polydimethylsiloxane. The island-shaped CB composite is placed between a copper connection electrode and the CNT composite, acting as both a buffer and distribution layer against current flow for a zero TCR. The degree of control over this zero TCR was characterized by examining the thickness ratio between the CNT and CB layers. The optimized edge-island composite structure showed a constant normalized resistance (with <;3% deviation) to 200 °C with a rapid heating property. This edge-island composite structure could be widely used for heat-related or sensor applications, solving safety, and accuracy issues.