Preparation and characterization of conductive foams based on PBS, carbon nanofibers and expanded graphite nanocomposites

Recently, conductive polymeric foams have aroused considerable research interest owing to their attractive properties associated with conventional polymers and unique electronic properties of metals or semiconductors. Large surface area, lower density and higher specific properties make them promising candidates for broad applications in energy conversion and storage, sensors, actuators, and biomedical devices. This work reports on the preparation and characterization of novel conductive polymeric foams based on a biodegradable polymer (Polybutylene succinate, PBS) and carbon nanoparticles (carbon nanofibres and expanded graphite). Foaming has been performed on PBS/CNF and PBS/CNF/EG nanocomposites using a batch process by using supercritical CO2 as blowing agent. The control of foaming parameters allowed to prepare foams with tailored morphologies, and cellular structures with macro to micro sized cells were obtained. An in deep discussion about the general design rules, advantages, and also the actual limitations of such novel conductive polymeric foams are provided. Results demonstrate their potential applications as active electrode materials for next-generation biodegradable energy storage.