A novel dielectric elastomer actuator based on polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel electrodes

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new dielectric elastomer actuator using PVA hydrogel electrodes that conduct high voltages, adhere well, and demonstrate excellent performance, durability, and tunability for various applications.

Contribution

It presents physically prepared PVA hydrogel electrodes as a novel, effective, and versatile component for dielectric elastomer actuators with improved stability and performance.

Findings

Achieved over 78% maximum areal strain.

Demonstrated stable operation over 2960 cycles.

Enabled high-voltage conduction without electrolysis.

Abstract

We firstly demonstrate physically-prepared compliant PVA hydrogel electrodes as a promising supplement in dielectric elastomer actuators. They are capable of conducting high voltages over 5 kV without electrolysis by an electrical double layer effect. The hydrogel electrodes adhere tightly to the dielectric layer, which ensures its structural stability during actuation. All-polymeric actuators fabricated by these electrodes exhibited excellent consecutive working performance over 2960 cycles. The actuation was influenced by applied voltage, ramp rate, electrode elastic modulus and moisture content. A maximum areal strain over 78% was achieved. Tunable transparency, good biocompatibility, long lifetime, low cost and facile fabrication make PVA hydrogel electrode another promising candidate in the fields of sensors, artificial muscles and optical applications.