Sustainable antibacterial collagen composites with silver nanowires for resistive pressure sensor applications

Considering the circular economy and the increasing need of smart materials for the digitalization of society, it is essential that these materials are based on bio-resources. Thus, in order to replace synthetic by natural polymers in multifunctional composites, this work reports on the development of collagen/silver nanowires (Ag NWs) composites for resistive sensor applications. It is demonstrated the physical interactions of hydroxyl groups in collagen with the Ag NWs and that the Ag NWs are well dispersed within the collagen matrix. Further, the addition of Ag NWs to the collagen matrix increases the thermal stability of collagen and the Ag NW content does not affect the triple helix structure of the polymer matrix. The mechanical, electrical and antibacterial properties depend on Ag NW content and the best electric conductivity of 0.0515 S cm-1 is obtained for composites with 6 wt% of Ag NWs. This composite presents suitable resistance variations under pressure and bending allowing the development of sustainable multifunctional sensing composites with antibacterial activity that can be applied in next generation touch sensing electronic devices.