Abstract
Interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) represent an interesting approach for tuning the properties of silicone elastomers due to the possible synergism that may occur between the networks. A new approach is presented, which consists of mixing two silicone-based networks with different crosslinking pathways; the first network being cured by condensation route and the second network by UV curing. The networks were mixed in different ratios and the resulted samples yield good mechanical properties (improved elongations, up to 720%, and Young’s modulus, 1 MPa), thermal properties (one glass transition temperature, ~−123 °C), good dielectric strength (~50 V/μm), and toughness (63 kJ/m3).
Highlights
Wave energy harvesting with dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) is a relatively new technology with great application potential [1,2,3,4]
The elastic network was made of hydroxyl-terminated PDMS with a high molecular weight, which was cross-linked with TEOS by condensation (A network)
A wrinkle-like morphology was noticed in sample A (Figure 1a), which is made of a polymer with a high molecular weight
Summary
Wave energy harvesting with dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) is a relatively new technology with great application potential [1,2,3,4]. Using a specially engineered mold or a 3D printer, silicone elastomers can take nearly any shape For these reasons, silicone elastomers can be used in a wide range of applications, including energy harvesting (e.g., wave energy harvesting [5,6], energy harvesting using human walking motions [7]), braille displays [8], robotics [9] (sensing skin), and they hold a significant share of the market for aeronautical applications as well (adhesives in spacecrafts and airplanes, components of wings, landing flaps, window gaskets, floor components) [10]
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