The dynamic properties of the IPMC polymer

Abstract

IPMC is classified as one of the so-called smart materials, whose properties can be designed depending on the needs that arise. It is possible to construct complex mechanical structures using those materials. Mechanical structures include a drive, structural frame, bearings, and other components. Smart materials make it possible to integrate those functionalities to be contained within one element. An additional advantage is offered by the fact that, depending on the application design, they can operate as sensors or actuators. The matrix of IPMC is Nafion polymer membrane, plated on both sides with a 10-20 μm platinum and gold layer. The membrane contains anions, which are not capable of moving, whereas cations can freely travel within the membrane. When voltage is applied to IPMC electrodes, an electric field E is created, which makes mobile cations, together with water molecules, migrate within the membrane towards the negative electrode. As a result, pressure increases in the negative electrode area, whereas it decreases in the positive electrode area, which causes the polymer to bend. IPMC provides an interesting option for the system elements, as it makes it possible to generate low forces, of the order of 10 to 40 times of its weight (given in grams). The first part of the paper provides a description of the control measurement system. The second part investigates dynamic properties of the IPMC stripes of the two sizes: 8.47×25.48×0.34mm and 10×37.6×l.67mm.