Printing ionic polymer metal composite actuators by fused deposition modeling technology

In this work, we printed a Nafion precursor membrane by fused deposition modeling (FDM) rapid prototyping technology and further fabricated IPMCs electroless plating. The ion-exchange capacity of the was tested, morphology observed. electro-mechanical properties under AC voltage inputs were studied, grasping experiments performed. results show that after hydrolysis has good ability water-holding capacity. SEM observed thickness IPMC’s electrode layer about 400 nm, platinum tightly combined with substrate membrane. When using square wave input 3.5 V 0.1 Hz, maximum current reached 0.30 A, displacement blocking force 7.57 mm 10.5 mN, respectively. new fabrication process ensures driving performance IPMC. And two pieces can capture irregular objects successfully, indicating feasibility printing FDM technology. This paper provides simple method for three-dimensional IPMCs, which be applied in flexible grippers soft robotics.