Synthesizing high quality graphene mesh for developing novel electro-mechanical devices

Abstract

This thesis focuses on synthesizing graphene mesh and utilizing it for development of new electro-mechanical devices. First electrowetting of graphene-coated metal meshe and active penetration of water inside a porous membrane was realized. High-quality graphene was grown on nickel mesh by a chemical vapor deposition method. Using the graphene-coated metal meshes, two active flow devices were developed, demonstrating the dynamic locomotion of water droplets between discrete electrodes, and electroactive flow switching. Next a novel hybrid electrode for utilization in ionic actuators was designed using free-standing graphene mesh and nitrogen doped graphene. The well-designed electrode enhanced the performance of actuator up to 620%. Finally a flexible strain sensor was fabricated using the graphene mesh coated by silver nano wires. The fabricated sensor showed stable response in different strain rates and high sensitivity to mechanical loadings.