Optimization of electroactive hydrogel actuators.
To improve actuation of hydrogels, we utilized an emulsion polymerization to engineer porous structures into polyelectrolyte hydrogels. Porous hydrogels generated large deformation as a result of enhanced deswelling mechanisms; for instance, the decreased number of COO(-) groups that must be protonated in porous hydrogels to initiate bending. Measurements of the mechanical properties revealed that porous hydrogels also bend to a larger extent because of their increased flexibility. Overall, our results demonstrate that the fast and large actuation of polyelectrolyte hydrogels can be accomplished by increasing the hydrogel porosity.
O'Grady
Megan L
ML
Kuo
Po-ling
PL
Parker
Kevin Kit
KK
D055119:Elastic Modulus / Q000528:radiation effects; D004563:Electrochemistry / Q000379:methods*; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D020100:Hydrogels / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000528:radiation effects*; D008422:Materials Testing; D014159:Transducers
D020100:Hydrogels