Evaluation of Dielectric Elastomers in Applications as Low Cost, Small-Scale Actuators

Dielectric elastomers can be implemented as actuators in applications where lightweight and compact mechanisms are required. Research was conducted using various samples which combine different acrylic elastomer films, carbon powder electrodes and percentages of pre-strain to determine the dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) best suited to the required application. Experiments are imperative in the selection process since pre-strain alters the properties of the elastomeric films and results in film characteristics that differ from the predictions of the mathematical models.