Examination of factors to improve the elongation and output of dielectric elastomers

Most of the current market demand is for EAP (Electro Active Polymers) power suits, EAP motors, EAP muscles for robots, and systems that drive them in reverse to generate electricity efficiently. We believe that Dielectric Elastomer (DE) transducers are the most suitable for those purposes. To meet these demands, the elasticity of the elastomer is extremely important. We conducted SS (strain stress) curves and viscoelasticity tests on several DE materials (including HNBR: Hydrogenated nitrile rubber) to examine DE’s elongations and their relationships. We discuss important factors (such as cross-linking agents and double bond cleavage) in this paper, based on the research results. In addition, recent attempts have been made to use new carbon foam materials such as single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and multi-wall nanotubes (MWCNTs) as electrodes for DEs. These electrodes could bring a higher performance for DEs. Those possibilities are also discussed in the paper.