Computational strategy of dynamic nanorod networks for dielectric elastomer nanocomposites towards the balance of high permittivity, low modulus, and high breakdown strength

Dielectric elastomers exhibit immense potential in emerging fields such as soft robotics, flexible sensors, wearable electronic devices, and energy harvesting, but their widespread application is limited by the intricate paradoxes among the high permittivity, low modulus, and high breakdown strength. By regulating the aspect ratio, concentration, interaction strength, and crosslinking density, a dynamic nanorod network structure is constructed to harmonize comprehensive properties. The construction of the nanorod network significantly enhances permittivity due to the coupling effect of nanorods. Meanwhile, the low percolation threshold avoids high modulus, enabling large electro-induced strain. Under high strain, nanorod orientation shifts, leading to the destruction of the network, thereby avoiding the electric field concentration and achieving the enhancement of electromechanical stability. After the external field is withdrawn, entropic elasticity drives the recovery of elastomers, while the network reconstructs to restore the high dielectric constant. This strategy offers new insights into balancing high permittivity, low modulus, and high breakdown strength in practical applications.