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Bistable Large‐Strain Actuation of Interpenetrating Polymer Networks
Author(s) -
Niu Xiaofan,
Yang Xinguo,
Brochu Paul,
Stoyanov Hristiyan,
Yun Sungryul,
Yu Zhibin,
Pei Qibing
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
advanced materials
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 10.707
H-Index - 527
eISSN - 1521-4095
pISSN - 0935-9648
DOI - 10.1002/adma.201202876
Subject(s) - bistability , materials science , polymer , smart material , electroactive polymers , strain (injury) , composite material , glass transition , smart polymer , nanotechnology , optoelectronics , medicine
The bistable electroactive polymer is a new smart material capable of large strain, rigid‐to‐rigid actuation. At the rubbery state of the polymer heated to above its glass transition, stable electrically‐induced actuation is obtained at strains as large as 150%. Electromechanical instability can be effectively overcome by the formation of interpenetrating polymer networks. An application as a refreshable braille display is demonstrated.