Dielectric Elastomers

Abstract

Electroactive polymer (EAP) is a new actuation technology with exceptional performance. An especially attractive type of electroactive polymer is dielectric elastomer (DE). DE, based on the field-induced deformation of elastomeric polymers with compliant electrodes, can produce a large strain response, a fast response time, and high electromechanical efficiency. This unique performance, combined with other factors such as low cost, suggests many potential applications, a wide range of which are under investigation. Applications that effectively exploit the properties of DEs include artificial muscle actuators for robots (especially mobile and biomimetic robots on land, sea, and air); low-cost, lightweight linear actuators; inchworms, micro light scanners, and microfluidics, solid-state optical devices; diaphragm actuators for pumps, displays, and smart skins; acoustic actuators; and rotary motors. Dielectric elastomers may also be used to generate electrical power from mechanical deformation.