Enhanced Dielectric Strength and Actuation of Acrylic Elastomer with Silicone Gel Coating

摘要

Use of dielectric gel encapsulation is reported to make acrylic elastomer (VHB 4905) electrically stronger. Acrylic dielectric elastomer actuators (DEA) with silicone gel encapsulation can sustain an electrical breakdown field of up to 532MV/m, higher than 315MV/m of non-coated ones. Hence, its ultimate areal strain of 228% is larger than 189% of latter. This enhanced dielectric strength and actuation is attributed to the delayed electrothermal breakdown of VHB with silicone gel encapsulant that bars oxygen supply in air.