Enhanced performance of IPMC actuator based on macroporous multilayer MCNTs/Nafion polymer

The structure and additives of ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) are important factors affecting its performance. Macropores and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MCNTs) were introduced into multilayered IPMC actuators by an orderly mesh of silica spheres to enhance the IPMC actuator’s performance. The mechanical of membranes is improved a lot by the uniform combination of MCNTs and macroporous multilayered MCNTs/Nafion membrane. In particular, Young’s modulus for the macroporous multilayered MCNTs/Nafion membrane increases by 3.3 folds (from 262.6 MPa to 858.1 MPa), and the hardness increases by 4.4 folds (from 28.2 MPa to 123.9 MPa). Electromechanical results of the IPMC actuator increase respectively by 1.41 (33.5 mm) and 2.2 (19.2 mN) folds in the air under a DC voltage of 5 V, compared with typical IPMC actuators.