Architected elastomer networks for optimal electromechanical response

Dielectric elastomers (DEs) that couple deformation and electrostatics have the potential for use in soft sensors actuators with applications ranging from robotic, biomedical, energy, aerospace automotive technologies. However, currently available DEs are limited by weak electromechanical coupling require large electric fields significant actuation. In this work, a statistical mechanics-based model of DE chains is applied to elucidate role polymer network architecture performance bulk material. Given composed cross-linked, paper examines cross-link density, orientational density chains, other parameters determining material properties interest including elastic modulus, electrical susceptibility, coupling. From analysis, practical strategy presented increase usable work derived (anisotropic) dielectric elastomer as much 75?100%.