Comparative Study of Surfactants in Graphene Conductive Inks: From Dispersion Mechanisms to Electrical Properties

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Printing Science and Technology, Institute for Color Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Color Physics, Institute for Color Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The development of environmentally friendly, water-based conductive inks with high dispersion stability and electrical conductivity is vital for next-generation printed electronics. This study examines the impact of surfactant type (SDBS, SDS, CTAB, Triton X-100) and concentration (0.1%–0.75% w/w) on the dispersion stability and conductivity of graphene-based conductive inks. Additionally, the effects of different milling processes (ultrasonication, jar milling, magnetic stirring) on conductivity are analyzed.



Characterization was performed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, turbidimetry, particle size analysis, SEM, Raman spectroscopy, and four-probe conductivity measurements. Findings highlight that anionic surfactants, particularly SDBS, offer superior dispersion due to enhanced electrostatic repulsion and π-π interactions with graphene. The optimal formulation—0.1% SDBS, below its critical micelle concentration—significantly improved conductivity by minimizing micelle formation. Among dispersion methods, magnetic stirring proved most effective, reducing structural defects and achieving the lowest electrical resistivity (24–32 mΩ).



The optimized formulation (0.1% SDBS with magnetic stirring) led to a 15% reduction in resistivity compared to standard formulations. These insights establish a rational framework for surfactant selection, enabling advancements in flexible electronics and other applications requiring high-performance conductive inks.

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Main Subjects

Progress in Color, Colorants and Coatings

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 20 August 2025

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