Electrical response and functionality of polymer matrix-titanium carbide composites

The dielectric response and conductivity of polymer matrix-titanium carbide composites was examined by means of Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy in the frequency range of 10(-1)-10(7) Hz and over the temperature range of 40-150 degrees C, varying the filler content. Dielectric data were analyzed via the electric modulus formalism. Recorded relaxations were attributed to interfacial polarization, glass to rubber transition and local motions of polar side groups. Alternating current conductivity varies up to seven orders of magnitude with both frequency and temperature. Direct current conductivity increases with temperature, although the rate of its alteration does not remain constant in the examined temperature range. In the low temperature region (up to 60 degrees C) increases at a higher rate, while right afterwards approaches rather constant values. Finally, in the high temperature range (above 90 degrees C) conductivity raises again but at a lower rate. This behaviour adds functionality to the composites' performance and could be exploited in developing self-current regulators.