Electro-active Interpenetrating Polymer Networks actuators and strain sensors: Fabrication, position control and sensing properties

Electro-active interpenetrated polymer networks (IPN) actuators were fabricated by oxidative polymerization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene within a flexible Solid Polymer Electrolytes (SPEs) combining poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR). The electronic conductivity and the morphology of the interpenetrated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) electrodes within the SPE were characterized. The free strain as well as the blocking force was investigated as a function of the PEDOT and ionic liquid contents. Furthermore the strain control was demonstrated by using a Pulse Width Modulation technique. These materials act also as displacement sensors. It has been shown that applying strain generates a proportional change in voltage.