Abstract
Mimicking the characteristics of human muscles has been a scientific challenge for decades. The linear motion of human muscles, along with their self-healing properties and ability to achieve large strains while preserving stiffness, has proven difficult to imitate effectively by traditional means. Of interest to soft robotics are dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) due to their inherent softness, simple work principle, and high achievable strains. They are particularly interesting for application as artificial muscles and energy harvesters.
Several materials have been explored for their use as DEAs, and through all these materials, silicone elastomers are regarded as particularly promising due to their flexibility, robustness, and biocompatibility. Various methods have been developed to create soft and stretchable elastomers, primarily by employing different crosslinking strategies. In this work, we will review the application of silicone elastomers in soft actuators, as well as the critical properties of the elastomers necessary for a high-performance actuator. Furthermore, we will explore different synthetic routes to obtain advanced silicone elastomers with unique mechanical and morphological properties.
Several materials have been explored for their use as DEAs, and through all these materials, silicone elastomers are regarded as particularly promising due to their flexibility, robustness, and biocompatibility. Various methods have been developed to create soft and stretchable elastomers, primarily by employing different crosslinking strategies. In this work, we will review the application of silicone elastomers in soft actuators, as well as the critical properties of the elastomers necessary for a high-performance actuator. Furthermore, we will explore different synthetic routes to obtain advanced silicone elastomers with unique mechanical and morphological properties.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 2023 |
| Number of pages | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 2023 |
| Event | 10th European Silicon Days - Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Montpellier, Montpellier, France Duration: 10 Jul 2023 → 12 Jul 2023 Conference number: 10 https://10esd.sciencesconf.org/ |
Conference
| Conference | 10th European Silicon Days |
|---|---|
| Number | 10 |
| Location | Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Montpellier |
| Country/Territory | France |
| City | Montpellier |
| Period | 10/07/2023 → 12/07/2023 |
| Internet address |