Analysis of Polymer-Ceramic Composites Performance on Electrical and Mechanical Properties through Finite Element and Empirical Models

Abstract

Polymer and ceramic-based composites offer a unique blend of desirable traits for improving dielectric permittivity. This study employs an empirical approach to estimate the dielectric permittivity of composite materials and uses a finite element model to understand the effects of permittivity and filler concentration on mechanical and electrical properties. The empirical model combines the Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars (MWS) and Bruggeman models to estimate the effective permittivity using Barium Titanate (BT) and Calcium Copper Titanate Oxide (CCTO) as ceramic fillers dispersed in a Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymer matrix. Results indicate that the permittivity of the composite improves with increased filler content, with CCTO/PDMS emerging as the superior combination for capacitive applications. Capacitance and energy storage in the CCTO/PDMS composite material reached 900 nF and 450 nJ, respectively, with increased filler content. Additionally, increased pressure on the capacitive model with varied filler content showed promising effects on mechanical properties. The interaction between BT filler and the polymer matrix significantly altered the electrical properties of the model, primarily depending on the composite’s permittivity. This study provides comprehensive insights into the effects of varied filler concentrations on estimating mechanical and electrical properties, aiding in the development of real-world pressure-based capacitive models.