Graphite Inks and their Applications

In this experimental work, conductive water based inks were prepared from multiple graphite grades. All graphites that were chosen for this experimental work have a platelet morphology and varied surface area. Similarity between grades was the particle diameter. Diameter of selected platelets was 5 and 15 microns. Inks H5, H15, M5 and M15 were prepared using the same formula. The binder for the inks was commercially available acrylic based resin. Each grade resulted in ink with different viscosity. Inks were printed on polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Printed samples were dried in a laboratory oven at 70 degC for 10 minutes. The effect of surface area and diameter on conductivity was observed. Sheet resistance of inks was measured via 4-point probe method. Lastly, inks with conductivity larger than 60 Ohms/sq were tested for microwave susceptor application.