Electroactive Polymer (EAP) as Actuators for Biomimetic Applications

Many polymers are known to vary their shape or size when subjected to electric, chemical, pneumatic, optical, or magnetic field. Electrical excitation is one of the most attractive methods for causing elastic deformation. The convenience and practicality of electrical stimulation and the recent advances in electroactive polymers (EAP) make them the most preferred among the responsive polymers. An added benefit of some of the EAP materials is their having the reverse effect of converting mechanical strain to electrical signal making them useful for sensors and energy harvesting mechanisms. To bring these materials to use in daily use products will necessitate finding niche that addresses critical needs. One of the main applications that are being considered for biologically inspired capabilities, also known as biomimetics, which were previously imaginable only in science fiction concepts. Some of the applications that are considered include Refreshable Braille Display, Robotic Fish, Fish-like Blimp, Humanlike Robots and many others. In the paper, the latest development in EAP materials and their applications will be reviewed and discussed.