Electromechanical actuation of CNT/PVDF composite films based on a bridge configuration**Project supported by the National Basic Research Program of China (Grant No. 2012CB932302), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 11634014, 51172271, and 51372269), and the “Strategic Priority Research Program” of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (Grant No. XDA09040202).

Abstract

Bridged strips consisting of carbon nanotubes and poly(vinylidene fluoride) are developed, which exhibit notable deflection in response to very low driven voltages (), because of both the excellent conductivity of the unique carbon nanotube film and the powerful thermal expansion capability of the polymer. The actuators demonstrate periodic vibrations motivated by the alternating signals. The amplitude of displacement is dependent not only on the driven voltage but also on the applied frequency. The mechanism of actuation is confirmed to be the thermal power induced by the electrical heating. By accelerating the dissipation of heat, the vibration response at higher frequencies can be significantly enhanced. The useful locomotion shows great promise in potential applications such as miniature smart devices and micro power generators.