Electrochemo-poromechanics of Ionic Polymer Metal Composites: Towards the Accurate Finite Element Modelling of Actuation and Sensing

Abstract Ionic polymer metal composites (IPMCs) consist of an electroactive polymeric membrane, which is plated with electrodes and includes a fluid phase ions in solvent, whose diffusion allows for actuation sensing applications. We build on previous finite-deformation theory our group that accounts the cross-diffusion solvent couples mass balances these species stress balance Gauss law. Here, we abandon assumption dilute solution, benefits both modelling computation. A reliable finite element (FE) implementation electrochemomechanical theories IPMCs challenging because IPMC behaviour governed by boundary layers (BLs) occurring tiny membrane regions adjacent to electrodes, where steep gradients concentrations occur. address this issue adopting generalized FE method discretise BLs. This unprecedented analyses since it becomes possible explore under external actions consistent applications, beside obtaining accurate predictions reasonable computational cost. Hence, provide novel results concerning influence permittivity profiles at Additionally, leveraging mobility matrix, establish initial peak deflection strongly depends constitutive equations transport discuss some experimental from literature. Overall, demonstrate potential proposed model be effective tool thorough analysis design IPMCs.