Patent attributes
A polymer composite is provided that includes a plurality of heat-absorbing nanomaterials, a plurality of thermally-expanding microspheres, and an elastomeric matrix. In the polymer composite, the heat-absorbing nanomaterials and the thermally-expanding microspheres are dispersed within the elastomeric matrix such that the thermally-expanding microspheres expand and stretch the matrix upon exposure to a thermal stimulus. Methods of forming a thermally-expanding polymer composite are also provided and include the steps of dispersing a plurality of heat-absorbing nanomaterials in an evaporative solvent; combining the dispersion with an amount of an elastomeric material to create a mixture; adding an amount of thermally-expanding microspheres to the mixture; and polymerizing the mixture. Circuits including resistors comprised of the polymer composites are further provided.
