Deformation behavior of Ionic Polymer Metal Composite actuator in several pH solutions

M. Omiya, W. Aoyagi

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

In this paper, the pH value of working solution of Ionic Polymer Metal Composite (IPMC) actuators was systematically changed and the effect of pH on the deformation behavior was experimentally investigated. IPMC actuators, which consist of a thin perfuorinated ionomer membrane and electrodes plated on both surfaces, can undergo a large bending motion when a small electric field is applied across its thickness direction. Because of its lightness, softness and usableness in wet conditions, IPMC actuators are promised to be used for artificial muscles, biomimetic actuators and medical applications. The deformation properties of IPMC actuators are influenced by working solutions. However, the basic understandings about the effect of pH value of working solution on the deformation properties have not been clarified yet. Therefore, the pH characteristics of IPMC actuator were evaluated in this paper. IPMC actuators with the palladium electrodes were used and the responses for step voltage in several pH solutions were investigated. The results showed that the deformation behavior is drastically changed between acid and alkali solutions. In acid solutions, IPMC actuator showed a relaxation motion, though IPMC actuator in alkali solutions kept its deformed shape during applying a voltage.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationElectroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) 2013
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2013 Jun 12
EventSPIE Electroactive Polymers Actuators and Devices Conference, EAPAD 2013 - San Diego, CA, United States
Duration: 2013 Mar 112013 Mar 14

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume8687
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Other

OtherSPIE Electroactive Polymers Actuators and Devices Conference, EAPAD 2013
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego, CA
Period13/3/1113/3/14

Keywords

  • Actuator
  • Ionic Polymer Metal Composite (IPMC)
  • Smart material

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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