Abstract
We have developed a new type of electroactive polymer actuator film that is made of composite materials consisting of carbon nanoparticles and binder polymers. The actuator film can operate in two modes of actuation, the 'charge accumulation mode,' or the 'self-heating mode.' The former operates in an electrolyte solution when the voltage is applied against a counter electrode due to the charge accumulated on the electric double layer formed at the surface of the carbon nanoparticles. The latter operates in air owing to the thermal expansion caused by Joule heating. The actuator film is easily fabricated using casting or printing methods.
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