Improving the actuated performance of graphene/dielectric elastomers composites by using some new methods
Ning Nanying (1)*, Ma Qin (2), Liu Suting (2), Zan Xiaoqing (2), Tian Ming (1), Zhang Liqun (1)
(1) Beijing University of Chemical Technology, State Key Lab of Organic-Inorganic Composites - Beijing - China, (2) Beijing University of Chemical Technology, College of Materials Science and Engineering - Beijing - China
Dielectric elastomers (DEs) can can give rise to surprisingly large deformations by applying an electric field. 1-3 Because of the lightweight, large strain, and high energy density etc., DEs find many applications in industry such as artificial muscles and sensors. Among various DEs, graphene based DEs have attracted much attention because of its high dielectric constant (k) and unique layered structure. In this study, some new methods were used to improve the electromechanical performance of graphene based DEs. First, we prepared thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) DE with high k and low dielectric loss by disrupting hydrogen bonding between TPU chains and in-situ thermal reduction of graphene oxide nanosheets (GONS). Second, we prepared GONS-encapsulated carbon nanosphere (GO@CNS) hybrid/XNBR dielectric composite with high k, low dielectric loss and large actuated strain at a low electric filed by latex compounding. Third, we prepared poly (dopamine) encapsulated GONS/elastomer composites with low dielectric loss and improved breakdown strength and actuated strain at a low electric field. The improvement in the electromechanical performance of graphene based DEs facilitates the wider application of DEs.
Key words：Dielectric elastomers (DEs), dielectric properties, graphene