Dielectric Elastomer for Energy Harvesting: Simulation of Different Electrodes

Abstract

This paper discussed the simulation of the dielectric elastomer as electroactive polymer (EAP) where it can exhibit to certain expansion area. The dielectric elastomer (DE) as theoretically is a capacitor where it can function as the energy harvester and has been developed as a material in which can adapt with many application such as sensors , actuators and generators. DE is the type of polymer in which it can be expanded by injecting voltage toward it. The behavior of DE is simple as it can be strained or deformed to certain condition from existence of electric field flow through the structure. In order for the elastomer to expand to its full potential the suitable electrodes are required within the geometry. The electrodes function to transfer the voltage supply toward the elastomer of nonmetal material. The combination of the elastomer and electrode best explain as it sandwiched where the elastomer is placed between the terminal electrode and ground electrode. As the DE function to expand the need, a better study on the properties in terms of its deformation area is made. From this research, the simulation is made in determining the electrode material and the parameters that improve the performance in strain condition. COMSOL Multiphysics is used to simulate several different types of electrode tested on DE structure.