Laboratory Research on Energy Harvesting of Ionic Polymer Metal Composite

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the results of laboratory research on Ionic Polymer-Metal Composite (IPMC), in context of energy harvesting applications. IPMC is a novel type of material, a smart polymer, which can work as a sensor or an actuator. One of its biggest advantages is low actuating voltage of about 4V (with 120mA current), what makes it very energy-efficient. Step response for various input amplitudes of two IPMC samples is shown. Also, a voltage generated in response to mechanical deformation of the composite is measured, and a hysteresis loop is plotted. Lastly, the changes of properties of the IPMC caused by long-term actuation are researched. These results are necessary to build an energy harvesting system utilizing IPMC. A simple gripper built with IPMC is also presented.