Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites (IPMCs) as Impact Sensors

The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential of using IPMC as a flexible impact sensor to be used in typical impact protective devices like a protective headgear to estimate the severity level of head impacts. To that end, IPMC strips were embedded into two layers of protective dilatant material and several impact testings were performed. Results of output IPMC voltage and impact acceleration were captured and analyzed. IPMCs appear to present a potential as impact sensors. In so doing, small strips of either Platinum or Gold chemically-plated IPMCs were used. Results of IPMC voltage output and impact accelerations were reported. The results indicate that IPMCs can be used as flexible impact sensors.