Actuator device including nanoscale fiber films

摘要

A method for making an actuator capable of dry actuation is provided. The method includes providing a first nanoscale fiber film, providing a second nanoscale fiber film, positioning a solid polymer electrolyte at least partially between and adjacent to the first nanoscale fiber film and the second nanoscale fiber film, and then affixing the solid polymer electrolyte to the first nanoscale fiber film and the second nanoscale fiber film. The nanoscale fiber films may be buckypapers, made of carbon nanotubes. The actuator is capable of dry actuation.

主权项

1. A method for making an actuator capable of dry actuation comprising:
positioning a free-standing solid polymer electrolyte at least partially between and adjacent to a first preformed nanoscale fiber film and a second preformed nanoscale fiber film; and affixing the solid polymer electrolyte to the first preformed nanoscale fiber film and to the second preformed nanoscale fiber film by heating one or more of the first preformed nanoscale fiber film, the second preformed nanoscale fiber film, and the solid polymer electrolyte to bond the first preformed nanoscale fiber film and the second preformed nanoscale fiber film to the solid polymer electrolyte, wherein the first preformed nanoscale fiber film, the second preformed nanoscale fiber film, or both, are made by a process comprising:
suspending a plurality of nanoscale fibers in a liquid to form a suspension; andfiltering the suspension in a controlled manner to form the nanoscale fiber film.