A multiphysics model of IPMC actuators dependence on relative humidity

IPMCs (Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites) are electroactive polymers which can be used both as sensors and actuators. The dynamic behavior of IPMC actuators is affected by the relative humidity value. In this scenario there is a need to implement models that include the dependence of the dynamic IPMC behavior on environmental variables. In this work a multiphisics model of IPMC actuators is proposed that takes into account the dependence of the device transduction capabilities on the environmental relative humidity. Moreover the frequency domain investigation of the transducers is performed and a model optimization procedure is used to identify some IPMC model parameters by fitting experimental data. The proposed model is useful to understand the influence of relative humidity on the system performance and hence could be used to describe a IPMC vibrating devices as humidity sensors.