Keynote Speaker
Prof. Xuetao Shi
School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering,Northwestern Polytechnical University, China
Speech Title: 3D-Printed Multifunctional TPU/ANF/CNT Composite Foams with Synergistic Energy Absorption and Real-Time Pressure Sensing for Smart Protective
Abstract: The development of lightweight, customizable materials with high energy absorption capacity has become critically important across engineering disciplines, driven by escalating demands for impact protection in dynamic environments. Herein, a lightweight interpenetrating-network composites with aramid nanofibers (ANF)/carbon nanotubes (CNT) aerogel-filled thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) gyroid-structured foam was developed through 3D printing and infiltration processes. The 3D-printed customizable TPU foam with both the macro-scale porous sturcture and micro-scale cellular structure provides superior wearer comfort, elasticity and energy absorption, while the ANF/CNT aerogel further enhances energy absorption and enables real-time pressure sensing. Furthermore, the tunable mechanical strength TPU foam allows the composite structure to sense pressures up to 0.9 MPa (at 50% strain). Prototype validation in protective equipment applications—including impact-adaptive sports pads and smart helmets—demonstrates real-time pressure mapping capabilities. This multifunctional composite system, combining mass-customizable fabrication, exceptional energy dissipation, and embedded sensing intelligence, establishes a new paradigm for next-generation smart protective materials.
Keywords: Thermoplastic polyurethane, aramid nanofiber, carbon Nanotube, 3D printing, pressure sensor, energy absorption
Biography: Dr. Xuetao Shi received her Ph.D (2011) from Pisa university. She is currently a professor in School of chemistry and chemical engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University. Her research interests include the design and synthesis of biodegradable polyesters, multifunctional polymer composites and polymer processing technologies including 3D printing and microcellular foaming. She is the principal investigator of some projects granted by National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province.