Stacking Nematic Elastomers for Artificial Muscle Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-04-01

nematic to isotropic phase transition. In this eport, a new approach is introduced by layering liquid crystal elastomer films to create thermally...actuated stacks. A heating element and thermally onductive grease embedded between elastomer films provide a means for rapid internal heat application...voltage application, stacks composed f two 100 m-thick films and a single heating element produce 18% strain between contracted and relaxed states. In

Optomechanics of two- and three-dimensional soft photonic crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krishnan, Dwarak

Soft photonic crystals are a class of periodic dielectric structures that undergo highly nonlinear deformation due to strain or other external stimulus such as temperature, pH etc. This can in turn dramatically affect optical properties such as light transmittance. Moreover certain classes of lithographically fabricated structures undergo some structural distortion due to the effects of processing, eventually affecting the optical properties of the final photonic crystal. In this work, we study the deformation mechanics of soft photonic crystal structures using realistic physics-based models and leverage that understanding to explain the optomechanics of actual 2-D and 3-D soft photonic crystals undergoing similar symmetry breaking nonlinear deformations. We first study the optomechanics of two classes of 3-D soft photonic crystals: (1) hydrogel and (2) elastomer based material systems. The hydrogel based inverse face-centered-cubic structure undergoes swelling with change in pH of the surrounding fluid. The inverse structure is a network of bulky domains with thin ligament-like connections, and it undergoes a pattern transformation from FCC to L11 as a result of swelling. A continuum scale poroelasticity based coupled fluid-diffusion FEM model is developed to accurately predict this mechanical behavior. Light transmittance simulation results qualitatively explain the experimentally observed trends in the optical behavior with pH change. The elastomer based, lithographically fabricated material experiences shrinkage induced distortion upon processing. This behavior is modeled using FEM with the material represented by a neo-Hookean constitutive law. The light transmittance calculations for normal incidence are carried out using the transfer matrix method and a good comparison is obtained for the positions of first and second order reflectance peaks. A unit cell based approach is taken to compute the photonic bandstructure to estimate light propagation through the structure for other angles of light incidence. To obtain a detailed picture of the change in optical properties due to a pattern transformation, we study simple 2-D elastomer photonic crystals which undergo an interesting structural pattern transformation from simple circular holes to alternately oriented ellipses in a square lattice due to uniaxial compression. The incident light does not have any effect on the properties of the elastomer material. A decomposition of the deformation gradient quickly shows that the pattern transformation is induced by alternating rotations of the interstitial regions and the bending of interconnecting ligaments. Numerical simulations of light transmittance using vector element based FEM analysis of Maxwells equations shows changes in the light energy localization within the material especially in the high energy/low wavelength regions of the spectra. Additionally, with bandstructure calculations on a unit cell of the structure, the optomechanical behavior is completely explained. Finally, computational evidence is provided for a hypothetical 2-D photonic crystal made of a light-sensitive material, which undergoes a structural pattern transformation primarily due to the effect of incident light. The model takes into account the order kinetics of optically induced isomerization (of trans to cis configuration) in the azobenzene-liquid crystal elastomer to compute the transformational strain. This strain, in turn, deforms the structure and hence changes its periodicity and dielectric properties and thus affects the manner in which light gets localized within the material system. This consequently changes the profile of the imposed transformational strain on the deformed structure. The macroscopic strain history shows that prior to the mechanical instability that causes the pattern transformation, there is a period of structural relaxation which initiates the pattern transformation. After the symmetry breaking pattern transformation, the photonic bandstructure is altered significantly. Light does not get localized in the spot regions anymore and stress relaxation dominates. Due to this, the compressive macroscopic strain of the pattern transformed structure starts to decrease indicating a possible cyclical behavior.

Electrothermally Driven Fluorescence Switching by Liquid Crystal Elastomers Based On Dimensional Photonic Crystals.

PubMed

Lin, Changxu; Jiang, Yin; Tao, Cheng-An; Yin, Xianpeng; Lan, Yue; Wang, Chen; Wang, Shiqiang; Liu, Xiangyang; Li, Guangtao

2017-04-05

In this article, the fabrication of an active organic-inorganic one-dimensional photonic crystal structure to offer electrothermal fluorescence switching is described. The film is obtained by spin-coating of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) and TiO 2 nanoparticles alternatively. By utilizing the property of LCEs that can change their size and shape reversibly under external thermal stimulations, the λ max of the photonic band gap of these films is tuned by voltage through electrothermal conversion. The shifted photonic band gap further changes the matching degree between the photonic band gap of the film and the emission spectrum of organic dye mounting on the film. With rhodamine B as an example, the enhancement factor of its fluorescence emission is controlled by varying the matching degree. Thus, the fluorescence intensity is actively switched by voltage applied on the system, in a fast, adjustable, and reversible manner. The control chain of using the electrothermal stimulus to adjust fluorescence intensity via controlling the photonic band gap is proved by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and UV-vis reflectance. This mechanism also corresponded to the results from the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation. The comprehensive usage of photonic crystals and liquid crystal elastomers opened a new possibility for active optical devices.

Shape selection of twist-nematic-elastomer ribbons

PubMed Central

Sawa, Yoshiki; Ye, Fangfu; Urayama, Kenji; Takigawa, Toshikazu; Gimenez-Pinto, Vianney; Selinger, Robin L. B.; Selinger, Jonathan V.

2011-01-01

How microscopic chirality is reflected in macroscopic scale to form various chiral shapes, such as straight helicoids and spiral ribbons, and how the degree of macroscopic chirality can be controlled are a focus of studies on the shape formation of many biomaterials and supramolecular systems. This article investigates both experimentally and theoretically how the chiral arrangement of liquid crystal mesogens in twist-nematic-elastomer films induces the formation of helicoids and spiral ribbons because of the coupling between the liquid crystalline order and the elasticity. It is also shown that the pitch of the formed ribbons can be tuned by temperature variation. The results of this study will facilitate the understanding of physics for the shape formation of chiral materials and the designing of new structures on basis of microscopic chirality. PMID:21464276

Olefinic Thermoplastic Elastomer Gels: Combining Polymer Crystallization and Microphase Separation in a Selective Solvent

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Armstrong, Daniel P.; Mineart, Kenneth P.; Lee, Byeongdu

Since selectively swollen thermoplastic elastomer gels (TPEGs) afford a wide range of beneficial properties that open new doors to developing elastomer-based technologies, in this study we examine the unique structure-property behavior of TPEGs composed of olefinic block copolymers (OBCs). Unlike their styrenic counterparts typically possessing two chemically different blocks, this class of multiblock copolymers consists of linear polyethylene hard blocks and poly(ethylene-co-α-octene) soft blocks, in which case, microphase separation between the hard and the soft blocks is accompanied by crystallization of the hard blocks. We prepare olefinic TPEGs (OTPEGs) through the incorporation of a primarily aliphatic oil that selectively swellsmore » the soft block and investigate the resultant morphological features through the use of polarized light microscopy and small-/wideangle X-ray scattering. These features are correlated with thermal and mechanical property measurements from calorimetry, rheology, and extensiometry to elucidate the roles of crystallization and self-assembly on gel characteristics and establish useful structure-property relationships.« less

Olefinic Thermoplastic Elastomer Gels: Combining Polymer Crystallization and Microphase Separation in a Selective Solvent

DOE PAGES

Armstrong, Daniel P.; Mineart, Kenneth P.; Lee, Byeongdu; ...

2016-11-01

Since selectively swollen thermoplastic elastomer gels (TPEGs) afford a wide range of beneficial properties that open new doors to developing elastomer-based technologies, in this study we examine the unique structure-property behavior of TPEGs composed of olefinic block copolymers (OBCs). Unlike their styrenic counterparts typically possessing two chemically different blocks, this class of multiblock copolymers consists of linear polyethylene hard blocks and poly(ethylene-co-α-octene) soft blocks, in which case, microphase separation between the hard and the soft blocks is accompanied by crystallization of the hard blocks. We prepare olefinic TPEGs (OTPEGs) through the incorporation of a primarily aliphatic oil that selectively swellsmore » the soft block and investigate the resultant morphological features through the use of polarized light microscopy and small-/wideangle X-ray scattering. These features are correlated with thermal and mechanical property measurements from calorimetry, rheology, and extensiometry to elucidate the roles of crystallization and self-assembly on gel characteristics and establish useful structure-property relationships.« less

Model photo-responsive elastomers based on the self-assembly of side group liquid crystal triblock copolymers (Presentation Recording)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurji, Zuleikha; Kornfield, Julia A.; Kuzyk, Mark G.

2015-10-01

We report the synthesis of azobenzene-containing coil-liquid crystal-coil triblock copolymers that form uniform and highly reproducible elastomers by self-assembly. To serve as actuators to (non-invasively) steer a fiber optic, for example in deep brain stimulation, the polymers are designed to become monodomain "single liquid crystal" elastomers during the fiber-draw process and to have a large stress/strain response to stimulation with either light or heat. A fundamental scientific question that we seek to answer is how the interplay between the concentration of photoresponsive mesogens and the proximity to the nematic-isotropic transition governs the sensitivity of the material to stimuli. Specifically, a matched pair of polymers, one with ~5% azobenzene-containing side groups (~95% cyanobiphenyl side groups) and the other with 100% cyanobiphenyl side groups were synthesized from identical triblock pre-polymers (with polystyerene end blocks and 1,2-polybutadiene midblocks). These can be blended in various ratios to prepare a series of elastomers that are precisely matched in terms of the backbone length between physical crosslinks (because each polymer is derived from the same pre-polymer), while differing in % azobenzene side groups, allowing the effect of concentration of photoresponsive groups to be unambiguously determined.

Effects of Structural Variations on the Cellular Response and Mechanical Properties of Biocompatible, Biodegradable, and Porous Smectic Liquid Crystal Elastomers.

PubMed

Sharma, Anshul; Mori, Taizo; Mahnen, Cory J; Everson, Heather R; Leslie, Michelle T; Nielsen, Alek D; Lussier, Laurent; Zhu, Chenhui; Malcuit, Christopher; Hegmann, Torsten; McDonough, Jennifer A; Freeman, Ernest J; Korley, LaShanda T J; Clements, Robert J; Hegmann, Elda

2017-02-01

The authors report on series of side-chain smectic liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) cell scaffolds based on star block-copolymers featuring 3-arm, 4-arm, and 6-arm central nodes. A particular focus of these studies is placed on the mechanical properties of these LCEs and their impact on cell response. The introduction of diverse central nodes allows to alter and custom-modify the mechanical properties of LCE scaffolds to values on the same order of magnitude of various tissues of interest. In addition, it is continued to vary the position of the LC pendant group. The central node and the position of cholesterol pendants in the backbone of ε-CL blocks (alpha and gamma series) affect the mechanical properties as well as cell proliferation and particularly cell alignment. Cell directionality tests are presented demonstrating that several LCE scaffolds show cell attachment, proliferation, narrow orientational dispersion of cells, and highly anisotropic cell growth on the as-synthesized LCE materials. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

A cellulose liquid crystal motor: a steam engine of the second kind

PubMed Central

Geng, Yong; Almeida, Pedro Lúcio; Fernandes, Susete Nogueira; Cheng, Cheng; Palffy-Muhoray, Peter; Godinho, Maria Helena

2013-01-01

The salient feature of liquid crystal elastomers and networks is strong coupling between orientational order and mechanical strain. Orientational order can be changed by a wide variety of stimuli, including the presence of moisture. Changes in the orientation of constituents give rise to stresses and strains, which result in changes in sample shape. We have utilized this effect to build soft cellulose-based motor driven by humidity. The motor consists of a circular loop of cellulose film, which passes over two wheels. When humid air is present near one of the wheels on one side of the film, with drier air elsewhere, rotation of the wheels results. As the wheels rotate, the humid film dries. The motor runs so long as the difference in humidity is maintained. Our cellulose liquid crystal motor thus extracts mechanical work from a difference in humidity. PMID:23293743

A cellulose liquid crystal motor: a steam engine of the second kind.

PubMed

Geng, Yong; Almeida, Pedro Lúcio; Fernandes, Susete Nogueira; Cheng, Cheng; Palffy-Muhoray, Peter; Godinho, Maria Helena

2013-01-01

The salient feature of liquid crystal elastomers and networks is strong coupling between orientational order and mechanical strain. Orientational order can be changed by a wide variety of stimuli, including the presence of moisture. Changes in the orientation of constituents give rise to stresses and strains, which result in changes in sample shape. We have utilized this effect to build soft cellulose-based motor driven by humidity. The motor consists of a circular loop of cellulose film, which passes over two wheels. When humid air is present near one of the wheels on one side of the film, with drier air elsewhere, rotation of the wheels results. As the wheels rotate, the humid film dries. The motor runs so long as the difference in humidity is maintained. Our cellulose liquid crystal motor thus extracts mechanical work from a difference in humidity.

Giant lateral electrostriction in ferroelectric liquid-crystalline elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lehmann, W.; Skupin, H.; Tolksdorf, C.; Gebhard, E.; Zentel, R.; Krüger, P.; Lösche, M.; Kremer, F.

2001-03-01

Mechanisms for converting electrical energy into mechanical energy are essential for the design of nanoscale transducers, sensors, actuators, motors, pumps, artificial muscles, and medical microrobots. Nanometre-scale actuation has to date been mainly achieved by using the (linear) piezoelectric effect in certain classes of crystals (for example, quartz), and `smart' ceramics such as lead zirconate titanate. But the strains achievable in these materials are small-less than 0.1 per cent-so several alternative materials and approaches have been considered. These include grafted polyglutamates (which have a performance comparable to quartz), silicone elastomers (passive material-the constriction results from the Coulomb attraction of the capacitor electrodes between which the material is sandwiched) and carbon nanotubes (which are slow). High and fast strains of up to 4 per cent within an electric field of 150MVm-1 have been achieved by electrostriction (this means that the strain is proportional to the square of the applied electric field) in an electron-irradiated poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) copolymer. Here we report a material that shows a further increase in electrostriction by two orders of magnitude: ultrathin (less than 100nanometres) ferroelectric liquid-crystalline elastomer films that exhibit 4 per cent strain at only 1.5 MVm-1. This giant electrostriction was obtained by combining the properties of ferroelectric liquid crystals with those of a polymer network. We expect that these results, which can be completely understood on a molecular level, will open new perspectives for applications.

The effect of elastomer chain length on properties of silicone-modified polyimide adhesives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

St.clair, A. K.; St.clair, T. L.; Ezzell, S.

1981-01-01

A series of polyimides containing silicone elastomers was synthesized in order to study the effects of the elastomer chain length on polymer properties. The elastomer with repeat units varying from n=10 to 105 was chemically reacted into the backbone of an addition polyimide oligomer via reactive aromatic amine groups. Glass transition temperatures of the elastomer and polyimide phases were observed by torsional braid analysis. The elastomer-modified polyimides were tested as adhesives for bonding titanium in order to determine their potential for aerospace applications. Adhesive lap shear tests were performed before and after aging bonded specimens at elevated temperatures.

Control of Mechanical Properties of Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomers by Restriction of Crystallization of Soft Segment

PubMed Central

Kojio, Ken; Furukawa, Mutsuhisa; Nonaka, Yoshiteru; Nakamura, Sadaharu

2010-01-01

Mechanical properties of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers based on either polyether or polycarbonate (PC)-glycols, 4,4’-dipheylmethane diisocyanate (1,1’-methylenebis(4-isocyanatobenzene)), 1,4-butanediol, were controlled by restriction of crystallization of polymer glycols. For the polyether glycol based-polyurethane elastomers (PUEs), poly(oxytetramethylene) glycol (PTMG), and PTMG incorporating dimethyl groups (PTG-X) and methyl side groups (PTG-L) were employed as a polymer glycol. For the PC-glycol, the randomly copolymerized PC-glycols with hexamethylene (C6) and tetramethylene (C4) units between carbonate groups with various composition ratios (C4/C6 = 0/100, 50/50, 70/30 and 90/10) were employed. The degree of microphase separation and mechanical properties of both the PUEs were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic viscoelastic property measurements and tensile testing. Mechanical properties could be controlled by changing the molar ratio of two different monomer components. PMID:28883371

Vogel-Fulcher dependence of relaxation rates in a nematic monomer and elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shenoy, D.; Filippov, S.; Aliev, F.; Keller, P.; Thomsen, D.; Ratna, B.

2000-12-01

Dielectric relaxation spectroscopy is used to study the relaxation processes in a nematic monomer and the corresponding cross-linked polymer nematic liquid crystal (elastomer). In the frequency window 10 mHz to 2 GHz the monomer liquid crystal shows a single relaxation whereas the polymer exhibits three relaxation processes, two of which are quantitatively analyzed. The temperature dependence of relaxation times in both the monomer and polymer follows a Vogel-Fulcher behavior. The relaxation processes are identified with specific molecular motions and activation energies are calculated in a linear approximation for comparison with literature data.

Universal inverse design of surfaces with thin nematic elastomer sheets.

PubMed

Aharoni, Hillel; Xia, Yu; Zhang, Xinyue; Kamien, Randall D; Yang, Shu

2018-06-21

Programmable shape-shifting materials can take different physical forms to achieve multifunctionality in a dynamic and controllable manner. Although morphing a shape from 2D to 3D via programmed inhomogeneous local deformations has been demonstrated in various ways, the inverse problem-finding how to program a sheet in order for it to take an arbitrary desired 3D shape-is much harder yet critical to realize specific functions. Here, we address this inverse problem in thin liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) sheets, where the shape is preprogrammed by precise and local control of the molecular orientation of the liquid crystal monomers. We show how blueprints for arbitrary surface geometries can be generated using approximate numerical methods and how local extrinsic curvatures can be generated to assist in properly converting these geometries into shapes. Backed by faithfully alignable and rapidly lockable LCE chemistry, we precisely embed our designs in LCE sheets using advanced top-down microfabrication techniques. We thus successfully produce flat sheets that, upon thermal activation, take an arbitrary desired shape, such as a face. The general design principles presented here for creating an arbitrary 3D shape will allow for exploration of unmet needs in flexible electronics, metamaterials, aerospace and medical devices, and more.

Modeling Defects, Shape Evolution, and Programmed Auto-origami in Liquid Crystal Elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konya, Andrew; Gimenez-Pinto, Vianney; Selinger, Robin

2016-06-01

Liquid crystal elastomers represent a novel class of programmable shape-transforming materials whose shape change trajectory is encoded in the material’s nematic director field. Using three-dimensional nonlinear finite element elastodynamics simulation, we model a variety of different actuation geometries and device designs: thin films containing topological defects, patterns that induce formation of folds and twists, and a bas-relief structure. The inclusion of finite bending energy in the simulation model reveals features of actuation trajectory that may be absent when bending energy is neglected. We examine geometries with a director pattern uniform through the film thickness encoding multiple regions of positive Gaussian curvature. Simulations indicate that heating such a system uniformly produces a disordered state with curved regions emerging randomly in both directions due to the film’s up/down symmetry. By contrast, applying a thermal gradient by heating the material first on one side breaks up/down symmetry and results in a deterministic trajectory producing a more ordered final shape. We demonstrate that a folding zone design containing cut-out areas accommodates transverse displacements without warping or buckling; and demonstrate that bas-relief and more complex bent/twisted structures can be assembled by combining simple design motifs.

Synthesis and characterization of novel thermoplastic elastomers employing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane physical crosslinks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seurer, Bradley

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) are molecularly precise isotropic particles with average diameters of 1-2 nm. A typical T 8 POSS nanoparticle has an inorganic Si8O12 core surrounded by eight aliphatic or aromatic groups attached to the silicon vertices of the polyhedron promoting solubility in conventional solvents. Previously, efficient synthetic methods have been developed whereby one of the aliphatic groups on the periphery is substituted by a functional group capable of undergoing either homo- or copolymerization. In the current investigations, preparative methods for the chemical incorporation of POSS macromonomers in a series elastomers have been developed. Analysis of the copolymers using WAXD reveals that pendant POSS groups off the polymer backbones aggregate, and can crystallize as nanocrystals. From both line-broadening of the diffraction maxima, and also the oriented diffraction in a drawn material, the individual POSS sub-units are crystallizing as anisotropically shaped crystallites. The formation of POSS particle aggregation is strongly dependent on the nature of the polymeric matrix and the POSS peripheral group. X-ray studies show aggregation of POSS in ethylene-propylene elastomers occurred only with a phenyl periphery, whereas POSS particles with isobutyl and ethyl peripheries disperse within the polymer matrix. By altering the polymer matrix to one containing chain repulsive fluorine units, aggregation is observed with both the phenyl and isobutyl peripheries. Altering the polymer chain to poly(dimethylcyclooctadiene), POSS aggregates with isobutyl, ethyl, cyclopentyl, and phenyl peripheries. The formation of POSS nanocrystals increases the mechanical properties of these novel thermoplastic elastomers, including an increase in the tensile storage modulus and formation of a rubbery plateau region. Tensile tests of these elastomers show an increase in elastic modulus with increasing POSS loading. The elongation at break was as high as 720%. Cyclic tensile test show some hysteresis of the elastomers. However, the curves show Mullins effect behavior, commonly seen in elastomers. Elastomers with POSS dispersion, however, show poor mechanical properties. These results demonstrate the novel material property gains by the incorporation and aggregation of POSS in thermoplastic elastomers, as well as the influence of the POSS periphery.

Modeling the polydomain-monodomain transition of liquid crystal elastomers.

PubMed

Whitmer, Jonathan K; Roberts, Tyler F; Shekhar, Raj; Abbott, Nicholas L; de Pablo, Juan J

2013-02-01

We study the mechanism of the polydomain-monodomain transition in liquid crystalline elastomers at the molecular scale. A coarse-grained model is proposed in which mesogens are described as ellipsoidal particles. Molecular dynamics simulations are used to examine the transition from a polydomain state to a monodomain state in the presence of uniaxial strain. Our model demonstrates soft elasticity, similar to that exhibited by side-chain elastomers in the literature. By analyzing the growth dynamics of nematic domains during uniaxial extension, we provide direct evidence that at a molecular level the polydomain-monodomain transition proceeds through cluster rotation and domain growth.

Optical band gap in a cholesteric elastomer doped by metallic nanospheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hernández, Julio C.; Reyes, J. Adrián

2017-12-01

We analyzed the optical band gaps for axially propagating electromagnetic waves throughout a metallic doped cholesteric elastomer. The composed medium is made of metallic nanospheres (silver) randomly dispersed in a cholesteric elastomer liquid crystal whose dielectric properties can be represented by a resonant effective uniaxial tensor. We found that the band gap properties of the periodic system greatly depend on the volume fraction of nanoparticles in the cholesteric elastomer. In particular, we observed a displacement of the reflection band for quite small fraction volumes whereas for larger values of this fraction there appears a secondary band in the higher frequency region. We also have calculated the transmittance and reflectance spectra for our system. These calculations verify the mentioned band structure and provide additional information about the polarization features of the radiation.

Photonic gaps in cholesteric elastomers under deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cicuta, P.; Tajbakhsh, A. R.; Terentjev, E. M.

2004-07-01

Cholesteric liquid crystal elastomers have interesting and potentially very useful photonic properties. In an ideal monodomain configuration of these materials, one finds a Bragg reflection of light in a narrow wavelength range and a particular circular polarization. This is due to the periodic structure of the material along one dimension. In many practical cases, the cholesteric rubber possesses a sufficient degree of quenched disorder, which makes the selective reflection broadband. We investigate experimentally the problem of how the transmittance of light is affected by mechanical deformation of the elastomer, and the relation to changes in liquid crystalline structure. We explore a series of samples which have been synthesized with photonic stop gaps across the visible range. This allows us to compare results with detailed theoretical predictions regarding the evolution of stop gaps in cholesteric elastomers.

Elastic dependence of defect modes in one-dimensional photonic crystals with a cholesteric elastomer slab

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avendanño, Carlos G.; Martínez, Daniel

2018-07-01

We studied the transmission spectra in a one-dimensional dielectric multilayer photonic structure containing a cholesteric liquid crystal elastomer layer as a defect. For circularly polarized incident electromagnetic waves, we analyzed the optical defect modes induced in the band gap spectrum as a function of the incident angle and the axial strain applied along the same axis as the periodic medium. The physical parameters of the structure were chosen in such a way the photonic band gap of the cholesteric elastomer lies inside that of the multilayer. We found that, in addition to the defect modes associated with the thickness of the defect layer and the anisotropy of the elastic polymer, two new defect modes appear at both band edges of the cholesteric structure, whose amplitudes and spectral positions can be elastically tuned. Particularly, we showed that, at normal incidence, the defect modes shift toward the long-wavelength region with the strain; whereas, for constant elongation, such defects move toward larger frequencies with the incidence angle.

Synthesis of perfluoroalkylether oxadiazole elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosser, R. W.; Korus, R. A.; Shalhoub, I. M.; Kwong, H.

1979-01-01

A method for the simultaneous chain extension and crosslinking of perfluoroalkylethers which yields a thermally stable perfluoroalkylether oxadiazole elastomer crosslinked by trifunctional perfluoroalkylether-1,3,5-triazine is reported. In the preparation, hydroxylamine crystals prepared from hydroxylamine hydrochloride to which sodium butoxide had been added is mixed with perfluoroalkylether dinitrile to obtain the monomer, as the nitrile is converted to amidoxime. Monomers are heated at 140 to 200 C to form poly(perfluoroalkylether oxadiazole) with a 1,2,4-oxadiazole structure by a step-growth polymerization reaction. Simultaneous chain extension and crosslinking are observed to occur when the purified monomer is heated directly and when the remaining nitrile in the monomer is allowed to react with excess ammonia to form the corresponding amidine, which is then heated. Weight loss studies show the thermal stability of the perfluoroalkylether elastomer to be generally better than fluorosilicone or polyester elastomers, especially in air, indicating its potential usefulness for high-performance elastomeric applications.

Tissue Response to, and Degradation Rate of, Photocrosslinked Trimethylene Carbonate-Based Elastomers Following Intramuscular Implantation

PubMed Central

Timbart, Laurianne; Tse, Man Yat; Pang, Stephen C.; Amsden, Brian G.

2010-01-01

Cylindrical elastomers were prepared through the UV-initiated crosslinking of terminally acrylated, 8,000 Da star-poly(trimethylene carbonate-co-ε-caprolactone) and star-poly(trimethylene carbonate-co-d,l-lactide). These elastomers were implanted intramuscularly into the hind legs of male Wistar rats to determine the influence of the comonomer on the weight loss, tissue response, and change in mechanical properties of the elastomer. The elastomers exhibited only a mild inflammatory response that subsided after the first week; the response was greater for the stiffer d,l-lactide-containing elastomers. The elastomers exhibited weight loss and sol content changes consistent with a bulk degradation mechanism. The d,l-lactide-containing elastomers displayed a nearly zero-order change in Young’s modulus and stress at break over the 30 week degradation time, while the ε-caprolactone-containing elastomers exhibited little change in modulus or stress at break.

Polydopamine-Coated Main-Chain Liquid Crystal Elastomer as Optically Driven Artificial Muscle.

PubMed

Tian, Hongmiao; Wang, Zhijian; Chen, Yilong; Shao, Jinyou; Gao, Tong; Cai, Shengqiang

2018-03-07

Optically driven active materials have received much attention because their deformation and motion can be controlled remotely, instantly, and precisely in a contactless way. In this study, we investigated an optically actuated elastomer with rapid response: polydopamine (PDA)-coated liquid crystal elastomer (LCE). Because of the photothermal effect of PDA coating and thermal responsiveness of LCE, the elastomer film contracted significantly with near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. With a fixed strain, light-induced actuating stress in the film could be as large as 1.5 MPa, significantly higher than the maximum stress generated by most mammalian skeletal muscle (0.35 MPa). The PDA-coated LCE films could also bend or roll up by surface scanning of an NIR laser. The response time of the film to light exposure could be as short as 1/10 of a second, comparable to or even faster than that of mammalian skeletal muscle. Using the PDA-coated LCE film, we designed and fabricated a prototype of robotic swimmer that was able to swim near the water-air interface by performing "swimming strokes" through reversible bending and unbending motions induced and controlled by an NIR laser. The results presented in this study clearly demonstrated that PDA-coated LCE is a promising optically driven artificial muscle, which may have great potential for applications of soft robotics and optomechanical coupling devices.

A new mechanism of failure on polymers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fedors, R. F.

1974-01-01

Transparent laminates containing imbedded crystals of various ionic and nonionic substances were prepared and their swelling in distilled water was observed. It was found that under certain conditions, disk-shaped cracks formed around the swollen pockets containing a dissolving crystal. Such cracks can form before equilibrium swelling is reached and may severely damage the elastomer.

3D Printing of Liquid Crystal Elastomeric Actuators with Spatially Programed Nematic Order.

PubMed

Kotikian, Arda; Truby, Ryan L; Boley, John William; White, Timothy J; Lewis, Jennifer A

2018-03-01

Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are soft materials capable of large, reversible shape changes, which may find potential application as artificial muscles, soft robots, and dynamic functional architectures. Here, the design and additive manufacturing of LCE actuators (LCEAs) with spatially programed nematic order that exhibit large, reversible, and repeatable contraction with high specific work capacity are reported. First, a photopolymerizable, solvent-free, main-chain LCE ink is created via aza-Michael addition with the appropriate viscoelastic properties for 3D printing. Next, high operating temperature direct ink writing of LCE inks is used to align their mesogen domains along the direction of the print path. To demonstrate the power of this additive manufacturing approach, shape-morphing LCEA architectures are fabricated, which undergo reversible planar-to-3D and 3D-to-3D' transformations on demand, that can lift significantly more weight than other LCEAs reported to date. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Ferromagnetic viscoelastic liquid crystalline materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schlesier, Cristina; Shibaev, Petr; McDonald, Scott

2012-02-01

Novel ferromagnetic liquid crystalline materials were designed by mixing ferromagnetic nanoparticles with glass forming oligomers and low molar mass liquid crystals. The matrix in which nanoparticles are embedded is highly viscous that reduces aggregation of nanoparticles and stabilizes the whole composition. Mechanical and optical properties of the composite material are studied in the broad range of nanoparticle concentrations. The mechanical properties of the viscoelastic composite material resemble those of chemically crosslinked elastomers (elasticity and reversibility of deformations). The optical properties of ferromagnetic cholesteric materials are discussed in detail. It is shown that application of magnetic field leads to the shift of the selective reflection band of the cholesteric material and dramatically change its color. Theoretical model is suggested to account for the observed effects; physical properties of the novel materials and liquid crystalline elastomers are compared and discussed. [1] P.V. Shibaev, C. Schlesier, R. Uhrlass, S. Woodward, E. Hanelt, Liquid Crystals, 37, 1601 (2010) [2] P.V. Shibaev, R. Uhrlass, S. Woodward, C. Schlesier, Md R. Ali, E. Hanelt, Liquid Crystals, 37, 587 (2010)

New developments in 3D liquid crystal elastomers scaffolds for tissue engineering: from physical template to responsive substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prévôt, Marianne E.; Bergquist, Leah E.; Sharma, Anshul; Mori, Taizo; Gao, Yungxiang; Bera, Tanmay; Zhu, Chenhui; Leslie, Michelle T.; Cukelj, Richard; Korley, LaShanda T. J.; Freeman, Ernest J.; McDonough, Jennifer A.; Clements, Robert J.; Hegmann, Elda

2017-08-01

We report here on cell growth and proliferation within a 3D architecture created using smectic liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) leading to a responsive scaffold for tissue engineering. The investigated LCE scaffolds exhibit biocompatibility, controlled degradability, with mechanical properties and morphologies that can match development of the extracellular matrix. Moreover, the synthetic pathway and scaffold design offer a versatility of processing, allowing modifications of the surface such as adjusting the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance and the mobility of the LC moieties to enhance the biomaterial performance. First, we succeeded in generating LCEs whose mechanical properties mimic muscle tissue. In films, our LCEs showed cell adhesion, proliferation, and alignment. We also achieved creating 3D LCE structures using either metallic template or microsphere scaffolds. Finally, we recorded a four times higher cell proliferation capability in comparison to conventional porous films and, most importantly, anisotropic cell growth that highlights the tremendous effect of liquid crystal moieties within LCEs on the cell environment.

Investigations into the mechanical and physical behavior of thermoplastic elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Kathryn Janelle

This thesis describes investigations into the physical and mechanical characteristics of two commercial thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) systems. Both systems studied exhibit elastomeric behavior similar to more traditional crosslinked elastomers; however, in these TPEs non-conventional polymer architectures and morphologies are used to produce their elastomeric behavior. The two TPEs of interest are ethylene-propylene random copolymers and dynamically vulcanized blends of ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) and isotactic polypropylene (iPP). Very few studies have examined the mechanical behavior of these materials in terms of their composition and morphology. As such, the primary goal of this research is to both qualitatively and quantitatively understand the influence of composition and morphology on mechanical behavior. In additional very little information is available that compares their performance with that of crosslinked elastomers. As a result, the secondary goal is to qualitatively compare the mechanical responses of these TPEs with that of their more traditional counterparts. The ethylene-propylene copolymers studied have very high comonomer contents and exhibit slow crystallization kinetics. Their morphology consists of nanoscale crystallites embedded in an amorphous rubbery matrix. These crystallites act as physical crosslinks that allow for elasticity. Slow crystallization causes subsequent changes in mechanical behavior that take place over days and even weeks. Physical responses (e.g., density, crystallization kinetics, and crystal structure) of five copolymer compositions are investigated. Mechanical responses (e.g., stiffness, ductility, yielding, and reversibility) are also examined. Finally, the influence of morphology on deformation is studied using in situ analytical techniques. The EPDM/iPP blends are dynamically vulcanized which produces a complex morphology consisting of chemically crosslinked EPDM domains embedded within a semicrystalline iPP matrix. Six compositions are investigated as a function of three parameters: major volume fraction, iPP molecular weight, and EPDM cure state. The influence of these parameters on morphology and resulting mechanical behavior is examined. This work culminates in the development of a morphological model to describe the steady-state reversibility of these EPDM/iPP blends. The model is then evaluated in terms of composition and cure state.

High Pressure and Temperature Effects in Polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bucknall, David; Arrighi, Valeria; Johnston, Kim; Condie, Iain

Elastomers are widely exploited as the basis for seals in gas and fluid pipelines. The underlying behaviour of these elastomer at the high pressure, elevated temperatures they experience in operation is poorly understood. Consequently, the duty cycle of these materials is often deliberately limited to a few hours, and in order to prevent failure, production is stopped in order to change the seals in critical joints. The result is significant time lost due to bringing down production to change the seals as well as knock on financial costs. In order to address the fundamental nature of the elastomers at their intended operating conditions, we are studying the gas permeation behaviour of hydrogenated natural butyl rubber (HNBR) and fluorinated elastomers (FKM) at a high pressure and elevated temperature. We have developed a pressure system that permits gas permeation studies at gas pressures of up to 5000 psi and operating temperatures up to 150° C. In this paper, we will discuss the nature of the permeation behaviour at these extreme operating conditions, and how this relates to the changes in the polymer structure. We will also discuss the use of graphene-polymer thin layer coatings to modify the gas permeation behaviour of the elastomers.

The effects of surface topography control using liquid crystal elastomers on bodies in flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Settle, Michael; Guin, Tyler; Beblo, Richard; White, Timothy; Reich, Gregory

2018-03-01

Surface topography control has use across many applications including delayed separation of flow via selective boundary-layer tripping. Recently, advances with liquid crystal elastomers (LCE) have been leveraged for controlled, repeatable, out-of-plane deformations that could enable these topographical changes. An aligned LCE deforms when heated, associated with a loss in order. Circumferential patterns fabricated through the thickness of the LCE film yield a predictable conical out-of-plane deformation that can control surface topography. This study focuses on the experimental investigation of LCE behavior for flow control. Initially, the deformations of LCE samples 1/2" in diameter and 50 µm thick were characterized using Digital Image Correlation under uniform positive and negative gauge pressures at various temperatures. Surface topography showed strong dependence on boundary conditions, sample dimensions, and pattern location relative to the applied boundary conditions, informing adjustment of the LCE of the chemistry to produce higher modulus and glassy materials. As an initial demonstration of the ability to control flow, Then, to demonstrate the potential for flow control, 3D printed cylinders with varying arrangements of representative topographical features were characterized in a wind tunnel with Particle Image Velocimetry. Results showed that features with a maximum deflection height of 1.5 mm in a two-row arrangement can form an asymmetric wake about a 73 mm diameter cylinder that reduces drag while generating lift. These results inform subsequent investigation of active LCE elements on a cylinder that are currently under examination.

A simple analytical thermo-mechanical model for liquid crystal elastomer bilayer structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Yun; Wang, Chengjun; Sim, Kyoseung; Chen, Jin; Li, Yuhang; Xing, Yufeng; Yu, Cunjiang; Song, Jizhou

2018-02-01

The bilayer structure consisting of thermal-responsive liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) and other polymer materials with stretchable heaters has attracted much attention in applications of soft actuators and soft robots due to its ability to generate large deformations when subjected to heat stimuli. A simple analytical thermo-mechanical model, accounting for the non-uniform feature of the temperature/strain distribution along the thickness direction, is established for this type of bilayer structure. The analytical predictions of the temperature and bending curvature radius agree well with finite element analysis and experiments. The influences of the LCE thickness and the heat generation power on the bending deformation of the bilayer structure are fully investigated. It is shown that a thinner LCE layer and a higher heat generation power could yield more bending deformation. These results may help the design of soft actuators and soft robots involving thermal responsive LCEs.

A Highly Sensitive Resistive Pressure Sensor Based on a Carbon Nanotube-Liquid Crystal-PDMS Composite.

PubMed

Pan, Jin; Liu, Shiyu; Yang, Yicheng; Lu, Jiangang

2018-06-08

Resistive pressure sensors generally employ microstructures such as pores and pyramids in the active layer or on the electrodes to reduce the Young’s modulus and improve the sensitivity. However, such pressure sensors always exhibit complex fabrication process and have difficulties in controlling the uniformity of microstructures. In this paper, we demonstrated a highly sensitive resistive pressure sensor based on a composite comprising of low-polarity liquid crystal (LPLC), multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer. The LPLC in the PDMS forms a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) structure which can not only reduce the Young’s modulus but also contribute to the construction of conductive paths in the active layer. By optimizing the concentration of LC in PDMS elastomer, the resistive pressure sensor shows a high sensitivity of 5.35 kPa −1 , fast response (<150 ms), and great durability. Fabrication process is also facile and the uniformity of the microstructures can be readily controlled. The pressure sensor offers great potential for applications in emerging wearable devices and electronic skins.

Hencky's model for elastomer forming process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oleinikov, A. A.; Oleinikov, A. I.

2016-08-01

In the numerical simulation of elastomer forming process, Henckys isotropic hyperelastic material model can guarantee relatively accurate prediction of strain range in terms of large deformations. It is shown, that this material model prolongate Hooke's law from the area of infinitesimal strains to the area of moderate ones. New representation of the fourth-order elasticity tensor for Hencky's hyperelastic isotropic material is obtained, it possesses both minor symmetries, and the major symmetry. Constitutive relations of considered model is implemented into MSC.Marc code. By calculating and fitting curves, the polyurethane elastomer material constants are selected. Simulation of equipment for elastomer sheet forming are considered.

Ferroelectrics Volume 121 Numbers 1-4, 1991. Proceedings of the International Conference on Ferroelectric Liquid Crystals (3rd) Held in Boulder, Colorado on 23-28 June 1991. Part 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-01-01

they are part of the proceedings of FLC-91. The Guest Editors would like to thank the sponsors, administrative assistants, and especially all of the...the soft mode in comparison to the high frequency permittivi- ty, which results in rather low sensitivity of the method especially far from Tc The...elastomers6 and especially LC-elastomers * 7,8with Se-phases ’ can be prepared by crosslinking of LC-polymers. These polymers show the ferroelectric modes

Optimizing the network topology of block copolymer liquid crystal elastomers for enhanced extensibility and toughness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nowak, Christian; Escobedo, Fernando A.

2017-08-01

Molecular simulations are used to study the effect of synthesis conditions on the tensile response of liquid-crystalline elastomers formed by block copolymer chains. Remarkably, it is found that despite the significant presence of trapped entanglements, these networks can exhibit the sawtooth tensile response previously predicted for ideal unentangled networks. It is also found that the monomer concentration during crosslinking can be tuned to limit the extent of entanglements and inhomogeneities while also maximizing network extensibility. It is predicted that networks synthesized at a "critical" concentration will have the greatest toughness.

Thermomechanical behavior of shape memory elastomeric composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ge, Qi; Luo, Xiaofan; Rodriguez, Erika D.; Zhang, Xiao; Mather, Patrick T.; Dunn, Martin L.; Qi, H. Jerry

2012-01-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) can fix a temporary shape and recover their permanent shape in response to environmental stimuli such as heat, electricity, or irradiation. Most thermally activated SMPs use the macromolecular chain mobility change around the glass transition temperature ( Tg) to achieve the shape memory (SM) effects. During this process, the stiffness of the material typically changes by three orders of magnitude. Recently, a composite materials approach was developed to achieve thermally activated shape memory effect where the material exhibits elastomeric response in both the temporary and the recovered configurations. These shape memory elastomeric composites (SMECs) consist of an elastomeric matrix reinforced by a semicrystalline polymer fiber network. The matrix provides background rubber elasticity while the fiber network can transform between solid crystals and melt phases over the operative temperature range. As such it serves as a reversible "switching phase" that enables shape fixing and recovery. Shape memory elastomeric composites provide a new paradigm for the development of a wide array of active polymer composites that utilize the melt-crystal transition to achieve the shape memory effect. This potentially allows for material systems with much simpler chemistries than most shape memory polymers and thus can facilitate more rapid material development and insertion. It is therefore important to understand the thermomechanical behavior and to develop corresponding material models. In this paper, a 3D finite-deformation constitutive modeling framework was developed to describe the thermomechanical behavior of SMEC. The model is phenomenological, although inspired by micromechanical considerations of load transfer between the matrix and fiber phases of a composite system. It treats the matrix as an elastomer and the fibers as a complex solid that itself is an aggregate of melt and crystal phases that evolve from one to the other during a temperature change. As such, the composite consists of an elastomer reinforced by a soft liquid at high temperature and a stiff solid at low temperature. The model includes a kinetic description of the non-isothermal crystallization and melting of the fibers during a temperature change. As the fibers transform from melt to crystal during cooling it is assumed that new crystals are formed in an undeformed state, which requires careful tracking of the kinematics of the evolving phases which comes at a significant computational cost. In order to improve the computational efficiency, an effective phase model (EPM) is adopted to treat the evolving crystal phases as an effective medium. A suite of careful thermomechanical experiments with a SMEC was carried out to calibrate various model parameters, and then to demonstrate the ability of the model to accurately capture the shape memory behavior of the SMEC system during complex thermomechanical loading scenarios. The model also identifies the effects of microstructural design parameters such as the fiber volume fraction.

Incomparable hardness and modulus of biomimetic porous polyurethane films prepared by directional melt crystallization of a solvent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Suyeong; Kim, Byoungsoo; Lee, Jonghwi

2017-07-01

Porous materials with surprisingly diverse structures have been utilized in nature for many functional purposes. However, the structures and applications of porous man-made polymer materials have been limited by the use of processing techniques involving foaming agents. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time the outstanding hardness and modulus properties of an elastomer that originate from the novel processing approach applied. Polyurethane films of 100-μm thickness with biomimetic ordered porous structures were prepared using directional melt crystallization of a solvent and exhibited hardness and modulus values that were 6.8 and 4.3 times higher than those of the random pore structure, respectively. These values surpass the theoretical prediction of the typical model for porous materials, which works reasonably well for random pores but not for directional pores. Both the ordered and random pore structures exhibited similar porosities and pore sizes, which decreased with increasing solution concentration. This unexpectedly significant improvement of the hardness and modulus could open up new application areas for porous polymeric materials using this relatively novel processing technique.

Polymeric blends for sensor and actuation dual functionality

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

St. Clair, Terry L. (Inventor); Harrison, Joycelyn S. (Inventor); Su, Ji (Inventor); Ounaies, Zoubeida (Inventor)

2004-01-01

The invention described herein supplies a new class of electroactive polymeric blend materials which offer both sensing and actuation dual functionality. The blend comprises two components, one component having a sensing capability and the other component having an actuating capability. These components should be co-processable and coexisting in a phase separated blend system. Specifically, the materials are blends of a sensing component selected from the group consisting of ferroelectric, piezoelectric, pyroelectric and photoelectric polymers and an actuating component that responds to an electric field in terms of dimensional change. Said actuating component includes, but is not limited to, electrostrictive graft elastomers, dielectric electroactive elastomers, liquid crystal electroactive elastomers and field responsive polymeric gels. The sensor functionality and actuation functionality are designed by tailoring the relative fraction of the two components. The temperature dependence of the piezoelectric response and the mechanical toughness of the dual functional blends are also tailored by the composition adjustment.

Toxicity of Pyrolysis Gases from Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hilado, Carlos J.; Kosola, Kay L.; Solis, Alida N.; Kourtides, Demetrius A.; Parker, John A.

1977-01-01

The toxicity of the pyrolysis gases from six elastomers was investigated. The elastomers were polyisoprene (natural rubber), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM), acrylonitrile rubber, chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber, and polychloroprene. The rising temperature and fixed temperature programs produced exactly the same rank order of materials based on time to death. Acryltonitrile rubber exhibited the greatest toxicity under these test conditions; carbon monoxide was not found in sufficient concentrations to be the primary cause of death.

Equilibrium swelling of elastomeric materials in solvent environments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Green, P.F.

1990-03-01

The equilibrium swelling of silicones, fluorosilicones, VITON and ethylene-propylene-diene (EPDM) elastomers in an environment of the jet fuel JP4 was investigated. The volume of silicone and DPDM elastomers increased by approximately 100% when they were placed in a saturated environment of JP4. Conversely, the volume of the fluorosilicone elastomer increased by approximately 15% and that of VITON less than 1%. In acetone, a commonly used solvent, the equilibrium swelling of VITON and the fluorosilicone elastomer was excessive, on the order of 100%, wheras the silicone and EPDM elastomers exhibited small changes in dimensions. Reasons for these observations are discussed inmore » detail. We also present a simple scheme by which one may, qualitatively, determine the dimensional stability of these elastomers in different solvents if the cohesive energy density of the solvent, which is readily available in a number of handbooks, is known. We also evaluated the vulnerability of some commonly used engineering thermoplastics to JP4. The results are tabulated. 13 refs., 6 figs., 3 tab.« less

Curvature by design and on demand in liquid crystal elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kowalski, B. A.; Mostajeran, C.; Godman, N. P.; Warner, M.; White, T. J.

2018-01-01

The shape of liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) with spatial variation in the director orientation can be transformed by exposure to a stimulus. Here, informed by previously reported analytical treatments, we prepare complex spiral patterns imprinted into LCEs and quantify the resulting shape transformation. Quantification of the stimuli-induced shapes reveals good agreement between predicted and experimentally observed curvatures. We conclude this communication by reporting a design strategy to allow LCE films to be anchored at their external boundaries onto rigid substrates without incurring internal, mechanical-mismatch stresses upon actuation, a critical advance to the realization of shape transformation of LCEs in practical device applications.

Highly viscous liquid crystalline mixtures: the alternative to liquid crystalline elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shibaev, Petr; Schlesier, Cristina; Newman, Leah; McDonald, Scott

2012-02-01

Novel highly viscous liquid crystalline materials based on mixtures of glass forming oligomers and low molar mass liquid crystals were recently designed [1, 2] and studied. In this communication the novel data are presented, the analysis and discussion are extended. It is shown that viscoelastic properties of the materials are due to the physical entanglements between cyclic oligomers and low molar mass mesogens, not due to the chemical crosslinks between molecular moities. However, the mechanical properties of these viscoelastic materials resemble those of chemically crosslinked elastomers (elasticity and reversibility of deformations). The properties of chiral and non-chiral materials loaded with ferromagnetic nanoparticles are discussed in detail. Cholesteric materials undergo gigantic color changes in the wide spectral range under the deformation that allows distant detection of deformation and determination the anisotropy of deformation and its type. The materials doped with laser dyes become mechanically tunable lasers themselves and emit coherent light while pumped by external laser. A simple model is suggested to account for the observed effects; physical properties of the novel materials and liquid crystalline elastomers are compared and discussed. [4pt] [1] P.V. Shibaev, C. Schlesier, R. Uhrlass, S. Woodward, E. Hanelt, Liquid Crystals, 37:12, 1601-1604 [0pt] [2] P.V. Shibaev, P. Riverra, D. Teter, S. Marsico, M. Sanzari, V. Ramakrishnan, E. Hanelt, Optics Express, 16, 2965 (2008)

Fractional viscoelasticity of soft elastomers and auxetic foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solheim, Hannah; Stanisauskis, Eugenia; Miles, Paul; Oates, William

2018-03-01

Dielectric elastomers are commonly implemented in adaptive structures due to their unique capabilities for real time control of a structure's shape, stiffness, and damping. These active polymers are often used in applications where actuator control or dynamic tunability are important, making an accurate understanding of the viscoelastic behavior critical. This challenge is complicated as these elastomers often operate over a broad range of deformation rates. Whereas research has demonstrated success in applying a nonlinear viscoelastic constitutive model to characterize the behavior of Very High Bond (VHB) 4910, robust predictions of the viscoelastic response over the entire range of time scales is still a significant challenge. An alternative formulation for viscoelastic modeling using fractional order calculus has shown significant improvement in predictive capabilities. While fractional calculus has been explored theoretically in the field of linear viscoelasticity, limited experimental validation and statistical evaluation of the underlying phenomena have been considered. In the present study, predictions across several orders of magnitude in deformation rates are validated against data using a single set of model parameters. Moreover, we illustrate the fractional order is material dependent by running complementary experiments and parameter estimation on the elastomer VHB 4949 as well as an auxetic foam. All results are statistically validated using Bayesian uncertainty methods to obtain posterior densities for the fractional order as well as the hyperelastic parameters.

Programmable Liquid Crystal Elastomers Prepared by Thiol-Ene Photopolymerization (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-17

defect forms a 2D wrinkling pattern that leads to an areal contraction (Figure 4c,d). Both of these films return to a largely flat state on cooling...photopolymerization. ■ MATERIALS AND METHODS RM82 (1,4-bis-[4-(6-acryloyloxyhexyloxy)benzoyloxy]-2-methylben- zene) was purchased from Synthon Chemicals. 1,2...noted. Liquid crystal cells were prepared using methods described elsewhere.10 Briefly for cells patterned using rubbed surfaces, Elvamide was

Photo-Induced Deformations of Liquid Crystal Elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dawson, Nathan; Kuzyk, Mark; Neal, Jeremy; Luchette, Paul; Palffy-Muhoray, Peter

2010-10-01

Over a century ago, Alexander Graham Bell transmitted mechanical information on a beam of light using the ``photophone.'' We report on the use of a Fabry-Perot interferometer to encode and detect mechanical information of an illuminated liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) that is placed at a critical point between the reflectors. Furthermore, we show that cascading of macroscopic LCE-interferometer devices is possible. These are the first steps in the creation of ultra smart materials. Such applications require materials with a large photomechanical response. Thus, understanding the underlying mechanisms is critical. Only limited studies of the mechanisms of photomechanical effects have been studied in azo-dye-doped LCEs. The focus of our present work is to use the Fabry-Perot transducer geometry to study the underlying mechanisms and to determine the relevant material parameters that are used to develop theoretical models of the response. We use various intensity-modulated optical wave forms to determine the frequency response of the material, which are used to predict the material response in the time domain.

Volume phase transitions of cholesteric liquid crystalline gels.

PubMed

Matsuyama, Akihiko

2015-05-07

We present a mean field theory to describe anisotropic deformations of a cholesteric elastomer without solvent molecules and a cholesteric liquid crystalline gel immersed in isotropic solvents at a thermal equilibrium state. Based on the neoclassical rubber theory of nematic elastomers, we derive an elastic energy and a twist distortion energy, which are important to determine the shape of a cholesteric elastomer (or gel). We demonstrate that when the elastic energy dominates in the free energy, the cholesteric elastomer causes a spontaneous compression in the pitch axis and elongates along the director on the plane perpendicular to the pitch axis. Our theory can qualitatively describe the experimental results of a cholesteric elastomer. We also predict the first-order volume phase transitions and anisotropic deformations of a gel at the cholesteric-isotropic phase transition temperature. Depending on a chirality of a gel, we find a prolate or oblate shape of cholesteric gels.

Microgravity

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-01-24

The Protein Crystallization for Microgravity (DCAM) was developed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. A droplet of solution with protein molecules dissolved in it is isolated in the center of a small well. In orbit, an elastomer seal is lifted so the solution can evaporate and be absorbed by a wick material. This raises the concentration of the solution, thus prompting protein molecules in the solution to form crystals. The principal investigator is Dr. Dan Carter of New Century Pharmaceuticals in Huntsville, AL.

Effect of heating rate on toxicity of pyrolysis gases from some elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hilado, C. J.; Kosola, K. L.; Solis, A. N.

1977-01-01

The effect of heating rate on the toxicity of the pyrolysis gases from six elastomers was investigated, using a screening test method. The elastomers were polyisoprene (natural rubber), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM), acrylonitrile rubber, chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber, and polychloroprene. The rising temperature and fixed temperature programs produced exactly the same rank order of materials based on time to death. Acrylonitrile rubber exhibited the greatest toxicity under these test conditions, and carbon monoxide was not found in sufficient concentrations to be the primary cause of death.

LLE review. Volume 61, Quarterly report, October--December 1994

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

NONE

1994-12-31

This volume of the LLE review, covering the period of October--December 1994, contains articles on a diagnostic method employing krypton spectroscopy for measurement of temperature and shell-fuel mixing in high-temperature implosions; the first direct assessment of the ion-acoustic decay instability in a large-scale length, hot plasma; measurements of polarization mode dispersion and group-velocity walkaway in birefringent media using a frequency domain interferometer; an evaluation of the magnetic flux dynamics occurring in an optically triggered, thin-film superconducting switch; the effect of slurry fluid chemistry on particle size distribution during aqueous polishing of optical glass; and the influence of thermal and mechanicalmore » processing history in the preparation of well-ordered liquid crystal elastomer systems.« less

Mechanisms of Photo-Induced Deformations of Liquid Crystal Elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dawson, Nathan; Kuzyk, Mark; Neal, Jeremy; Luchette, Paul; Palffy-Muhoray, Peter

2010-03-01

Over a century ago, Alexander Graham Bell invented the photophone, which he used to transmit mechanical information on a beam of light. We report on the use of an active Fabry-Perot interferometer to encode and detect mechanical information using the photomechanical effect of a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) that is placed at a critical point between the reflectors. These are the first steps in the creation of ultra smart materials which require a large photomechanical response. Thus, understanding the underlying mechanisms is critical. Only limited studies of the mechanisms of the photomechanical effect, such as photo-isomerization, photo-reorientation and thermal effects have been studied in azo-dye-doped LCEs and in azo-dye-doped polymer fibers have been reported. The focus of our present work is to use the Fabry-Perot transducer geometry to study the underlying mechanisms and to determine the relevant material parameters that are used to develop theoretical models of the response. We use various intensity-modulated optical wave forms to determine the frequency response of the material, which are used to predict the material response.

Rate dependent constitutive behavior of dielectric elastomers and applications in legged robotics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oates, William; Miles, Paul; Gao, Wei; Clark, Jonathan; Mashayekhi, Somayeh; Hussaini, M. Yousuff

2017-04-01

Dielectric elastomers exhibit novel electromechanical coupling that has been exploited in many adaptive structure applications. Whereas the quasi-static, one-dimensional constitutive behavior can often be accurately quantified by hyperelastic functions and linear dielectric relations, accurate predictions of electromechanical, rate-dependent deformation during multiaxial loading is non-trivial. In this paper, an overview of multiaxial electromechanical membrane finite element modeling is formulated. Viscoelastic constitutive relations are extended to include fractional order. It is shown that fractional order viscoelastic constitutive relations are superior to conventional integer order models. This knowledge is critical for transition to control of legged robotic structures that exhibit advanced mobility.

Energy conversion in magneto-rheological elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sebald, Gael; Nakano, Masami; Lallart, Mickaël; Tian, Tongfei; Diguet, Gildas; Cavaille, Jean-Yves

2017-12-01

Magneto-rheological (MR) elastomers contain micro-/nano-sized ferromagnetic particles dispersed in a soft elastomer matrix, and their rheological properties (storage and loss moduli) exhibit a significant dependence on the application of a magnetic field (namely MR effect). Conversely, it is reported in this work that this multiphysics coupling is associated with an inverse effect (i.e. the dependence of the magnetic properties on mechanical strain), denoted as the pseudo-Villari effect. MR elastomers based on soft and hard silicone rubber matrices and carbonyl iron particles were fabricated and characterized. The pseudo-Villari effect was experimentally quantified: a shear strain of 50 % induces magnetic induction field variations up to 10 mT on anisotropic MR elastomer samples, when placed in a 0.2 T applied field, which might theoretically lead to potential energy conversion density in the mJ cm-3 order of magnitude. In case of anisotropic MR elastomers, the absolute variation of stiffness as a function of applied magnetic field is rather independent of matrix properties. Similarly, the pseudo-Villari effect is found to be independent to the stiffness, thus broadening the adaptability of the materials to sensing and energy harvesting target applications. The potential of the pseudo-Villari effect for energy harvesting applications is finally briefly discussed.

Energy conversion in magneto-rheological elastomers

PubMed Central

Sebald, Gael; Nakano, Masami; Lallart, Mickaël; Tian, Tongfei; Diguet, Gildas; Cavaille, Jean-Yves

2017-01-01

Abstract Magneto-rheological (MR) elastomers contain micro-/nano-sized ferromagnetic particles dispersed in a soft elastomer matrix, and their rheological properties (storage and loss moduli) exhibit a significant dependence on the application of a magnetic field (namely MR effect). Conversely, it is reported in this work that this multiphysics coupling is associated with an inverse effect (i.e. the dependence of the magnetic properties on mechanical strain), denoted as the pseudo-Villari effect. MR elastomers based on soft and hard silicone rubber matrices and carbonyl iron particles were fabricated and characterized. The pseudo-Villari effect was experimentally quantified: a shear strain of 50 % induces magnetic induction field variations up to 10 mT on anisotropic MR elastomer samples, when placed in a 0.2 T applied field, which might theoretically lead to potential energy conversion density in the mJ cm-3 order of magnitude. In case of anisotropic MR elastomers, the absolute variation of stiffness as a function of applied magnetic field is rather independent of matrix properties. Similarly, the pseudo-Villari effect is found to be independent to the stiffness, thus broadening the adaptability of the materials to sensing and energy harvesting target applications. The potential of the pseudo-Villari effect for energy harvesting applications is finally briefly discussed. PMID:29152013

Microscopic and macroscopic instabilities in finitely strained porous elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michel, J. C.; Lopez-Pamies, O.; Ponte Castañeda, P.; Triantafyllidis, N.

2007-05-01

The present work is an in-depth study of the connections between microstructural instabilities and their macroscopic manifestations—as captured through the effective properties—in finitely strained porous elastomers. The powerful second-order homogenization (SOH) technique initially developed for random media, is used for the first time here to study the onset of failure in periodic porous elastomers and the results are compared to more accurate finite element method (FEM) calculations. The influence of different microgeometries (random and periodic), initial porosity, matrix constitutive law and macroscopic load orientation on the microscopic buckling (for periodic microgeometries) and macroscopic loss of ellipticity (for all microgeometries) is investigated in detail. In addition to the above-described stability-based onset-of-failure mechanisms, constraints on the principal solution are also addressed, thus giving a complete picture of the different possible failure mechanisms present in finitely strained porous elastomers.

Nematic elastomers: from a microscopic model to macroscopic elasticity theory.

PubMed

Xing, Xiangjun; Pfahl, Stephan; Mukhopadhyay, Swagatam; Goldbart, Paul M; Zippelius, Annette

2008-05-01

A Landau theory is constructed for the gelation transition in cross-linked polymer systems possessing spontaneous nematic ordering, based on symmetry principles and the concept of an order parameter for the amorphous solid state. This theory is substantiated with help of a simple microscopic model of cross-linked dimers. Minimization of the Landau free energy in the presence of nematic order yields the neoclassical theory of the elasticity of nematic elastomers and, in the isotropic limit, the classical theory of isotropic elasticity. These phenomenological theories of elasticity are thereby derived from a microscopic model, and it is furthermore demonstrated that they are universal mean-field descriptions of the elasticity for all chemical gels and vulcanized media.

Encoding Gaussian Curvature in Glassy and Elastomeric Liquid Crystal Solids (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-04

unlimited. © 2016 THE ROYAL SOCIETY PUBLISHING (STINFO COPY) AIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURING DIRECTORATE WRIGHT...ACRONYM(S) Air Force Research Laboratory Materials and Manufacturing Directorate Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH 45433-7750 Air Force Materiel...integration of such materials is a precondition for their exploitation in new devices. 15. SUBJECT TERMS nematic, elastomers, solids, curvature

Instability of liquid crystal elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Ning; Li, Meie; Zhou, Jinxiong

2016-01-01

Nematic liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) contract in the director direction but expand in other directions, perpendicular to the director, when heated. If the expansion of an LCE is constrained, compressive stress builds up in the LCE, and it wrinkles or buckles to release the stored elastic energy. Although the instability of soft materials is ubiquitous, the mechanism and programmable modulation of LCE instability has not yet been fully explored. We describe a finite element method (FEM) scheme to model the inhomogeneous deformation and instability of LCEs. A constrained LCE beam working as a valve for microfluidic flow, and a piece of LCE laminated with a nanoscale poly(styrene) (PS) film are analyzed in detail. The former uses the buckling of the LCE beam to occlude the microfluidic channel, while the latter utilizes wrinkling or buckling to measure the mechanical properties of hard film or to realize self-folding. Through rigorous instability analysis, we predict the critical conditions for the onset of instability, the wavelength and amplitude evolution of instability, and the instability patterns. The FEM results are found to correlate well with analytical results and reported experiments. These efforts shed light on the understanding and exploitation of the instabilities of LCEs.

Toughening elastomers with sacrificial bonds and watching them break

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Creton, Costantino

2014-03-01

Most unfilled elastomers are relatively brittle, in particular when the average molecular weight between crosslinks is lower than the average molecular weight between entanglements. We created a new class of tough elastomers by introducing isotropically prestretched chains inside ordinary acrylic elastomers by successive swelling and polymerization steps. These new materials combine a high entanglement density with a densely crosslinked structure reaching elastic moduli of 4 MPa and fracture strength of 25 MPa. The highly prestretched chains are the minority in the material and can break in the bulk of the material before catastrophic failure occurs, increasing the toughness of the material by two orders of magnitude up to 5 kJ/m2. To investigate the details of the toughening mechanism we introduced specific sacrificial dioxetane bonds in the prestretched chains that emit light when they break. In uniaxial extension cyclic experiments, we checked that the light emission corresponded exactly and quantitatively to the energy dissipation in each cycle demonstrating that short chains break first and long chains later. We then watched crack propagation in notched samples and mapped spatially the location of bond breakage ahead of the crack tip before and during propagation. This new toughening mechanism for elastomers creates superentangled rubbers and is ideally suited to overcome the trade-off between toughness and stiffness of ordinary elastomers. We gratefully acknowledge funding from DSM Ahead

Thin-film dielectric elastomer sensors to measure the contraction force of smooth muscle cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Araromi, O.; Poulin, A.; Rosset, S.; Favre, M.; Giazzon, M.; Martin-Olmos, C.; Liley, M.; Shea, H.

2015-04-01

The development of thin-film dielectric elastomer strain sensors for the characterization of smooth muscle cell (SMC) contraction is presented here. Smooth muscle disorders are an integral part of diseases such as asthma and emphysema. Analytical tools enabling the characterization of SMC function i.e. contractile force and strain, in a low-cost and highly parallelized manner are necessary for toxicology screening and for the development of new and more effective drugs. The main challenge with the design of such tools is the accurate measurement of the extremely low contractile cell forces expected as a result of SMC monolayer contraction (as low as ~ 100 μN). Our approach utilizes ultrathin (~5 μm) and soft elastomer membranes patterned with elastomer-carbon composite electrodes, onto which the SMCs are cultured. The cell contraction induces an in-plane strain in the elastomer membrane, predicted to be in the order 1 %, which can be measured via the change in the membrane capacitance. The cell force can subsequently be deduced knowing the mechanical properties of the elastomer membrane. We discuss the materials and fabrication methods selected for our system and present preliminary results indicating their biocompatibility. We fabricate functional capacitive senor prototypes with good signal stability over the several hours (~ 0.5% variation). We succeed in measuring in-plane strains of 1 % with our fabricated devices with good repeatability and signal to noise ratio.

Active nematic gels as active relaxing solids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turzi, Stefano S.

2017-11-01

I propose a continuum theory for active nematic gels, defined as fluids or suspensions of orientable rodlike objects endowed with active dynamics, that is based on symmetry arguments and compatibility with thermodynamics. The starting point is our recent theory that models (passive) nematic liquid crystals as relaxing nematic elastomers. The interplay between viscoelastic response and active dynamics of the microscopic constituents is naturally taken into account. By contrast with standard theories, activity is not introduced as an additional term of the stress tensor, but it is added as an external remodeling force that competes with the passive relaxation dynamics and drags the system out of equilibrium. In a simple one-dimensional channel geometry, we show that the interaction between nonuniform nematic order and activity results in either a spontaneous flow of particles or a self-organization into subchannels flowing in opposite directions.

Development of New Elastomers and Elastic Nanocomposites from Plant Oils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Lin; Wool, Richard

2006-03-01

Economic and environmental concerns lead to the development of new polymers from renewable resources. In this research, new elastomers were synthesized from plant oil based resins. Acrylated oleic methyl ester (AOME), synthesized from high oleic triglycerides, can readily undergo free radical polymerization and form a linear polymer. To achieve the elastic properties, different strategies have been developed to generate an elastic network and control the crosslink density. The elastomers are reinforced by nanoclays. The intercalated state has a network structure similar to thermoplastic elastomers in which the hard segments aggregate to give ordered crystalline domains. The selected organically modified clay and AOME matrix have similar solubility parameters, therefore intercalation of the monomer/polymer into the clay layers occurs and the nano-scale multilayered structure is stable. In situ intercalation and solution intercalation were used to prepare the elastic nanocomposites. Dramatic improvement in mechanical properties was observed. Changes of tensile strength, strain, Young's modulus and fracture energy were related to the clay concentration. The fracture surface was studied to further understand clay effects on the mechanical properties. Self-Healing of the intercalated nanobeams, thermal stability, biocompatibility and biodegradability of this new elastomer were also explored.

Thermo-, photo-, and mechano-responsive liquid crystal networks enable tunable photonic crystals.

PubMed

Akamatsu, N; Hisano, K; Tatsumi, R; Aizawa, M; Barrett, C J; Shishido, A

2017-10-25

Tunable photonic crystals exhibiting optical properties that respond reversibly to external stimuli have been developed using liquid crystal networks (LCNs) and liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs). These tunable photonic crystals possess an inverse opal structure and are photo-responsive, but circumvent the usual requirement to contain dye molecules in the structure that often limit their applicability and cause optical degradation. Herein, we report tunable photonic crystal films that reversibly tune the reflection peak wavelength under thermo-, photo- and mechano-stimuli, through bilayering a stimuli-responsive LCN including azobenzene units with a colourless inverse opal film composed of non-responsive, flexible durable polymers. By mechanically deforming the azobenzene containing LCN via various stimuli, the reflection peak wavelength from the bilayered film assembly could be shifted on demand. We confirm that the reflection peak shift occurs due to the deformation of the stimuli-responsive layer propagating towards and into the inverse opal layer to change its shape in response, and this shift behaviour is repeatable without optical degradation.

Smart photonic coating as a new visualization technique of strain deformation of metal plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fudouzi, Hiroshi; Sawada, Tsutomu; Tanaka, Yoshikazu; Ario, Ichiro; Hyakutake, Tsuyoshi; Nishizaki, Itaru

2012-04-01

We will present a simple and low cost method to visualize local strain distribution in deformed aluminum plates. In this study, aluminum plates were coated with opal photonic crystal film with tunable structural color. The photonic crystal films consist of a silicone elastomer that contains an array of submicron polystyrene colloidal particles. When the aluminum sheets were stretched, the change in the spacing of the colloidal particles in the opal film alters the color of the film. This approach could be useful as a new strain gauge having a visual indicator to detect mechanical deformation.

Dynamics of uniaxially oriented elastomers using dielectric spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Hyungki; Fragiadakis, Daniel; Martin, Darren; Runt, James

2009-03-01

We summarize our initial dielectric spectroscopy investigation of the dynamics of oriented segmented polyurethanes and crosslinked polyisoprene elastomers. A specially designed uniaxial stretching rig is used to control the draw ratio, and the electric field is applied normal to the draw direction. For the segmented PUs, we observe a dramatic reduction in relaxation strength of the soft phase segmental process with increasing extension ratio, accompanied by a modest decrease in relaxation frequency. Crosslinking of the polyisoprene was accomplished with dicumyl peroxide and the dynamics of uncrosslinked and crosslinked versions are investigated in the undrawn state and at different extension ratios. Complimentary analysis of the crosslinked PI is conducted with wide angle X- ray diffraction to examine possible strain-induced crystallization, DSC, and swelling experiments. Quantitative analysis of relaxation strengths and shapes as a function of draw ratio will be discussed.

Electromechanical response of silicone dielectric elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cârlescu, V.; Prisăcaru, G.; Olaru, D.

2016-08-01

This paper presents an experimental technique to investigate the electromechanical properties of silicone dielectric elastomers actuated with high DC electric fields. A non-contact measurement technique is used to capture and monitor the thickness strain (contraction) of a circular film placed between two metallic disks electrodes. Two active fillers such as silica (10, 15 and 30 wt%) and barium titanate (5 and 15 wt%) were incorporated in order to increase the actuation performance. Thickness strain was measured at HV stimuli up to 4.5 kV and showed a quadratic dependence against applied electric field indicating that the induced strain is triggered by the Maxwell effect and/or electrostriction phenomenon as reported in literature. The actuation process evidences a rapid contraction upon HV activation and a slowly relaxation when the electrodes are short-circuit due to visco-elastic nature of elastomers. A maximum of 1.22 % thickness strain was obtained at low actuating field intensity (1.5 V/pm) comparable with those reported in literature for similar dielectric elastomer materials.

Phase separated microstructure and dynamics of polyurethane elastomers under strain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iacob, Ciprian; Padsalgikar, Ajay; Runt, James

The molecular mobility of polyurethane elastomers is of the utmost importance in establishing physical properties for uses ranging from automotive tires and shoe soles to more sophisticated aerospace and biomedical applications. In many of these applications, chain dynamics as well as mechanical properties under external stresses/strains are critical for determining ultimate performance. In order to develop a more complete understanding of their mechanical response, we explored the effect of uniaxial strain on the phase separated microstructure and molecular dynamics of the elastomers. We utilize X-ray scattering to investigate soft segment and hard domain orientation, and broadband dielectric spectroscopy for interrogation of the dynamics. Uniaxial deformation is found to significantly perturb the phase-separated microstructure and chain orientation, and results in a considerable slowing down of the dynamics of the elastomers. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements of the polyurethanes under uniaxial deformation are also employed and the results are quantitatively correlated with mechanical tensile tests and the degree of phase separation from small-angle X-ray scattering measurements.

Spring roll dielectric elastomer actuators for a portable force feedback glove

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Rui; Lochmatter, Patrick; Kunz, Andreas; Kovacs, Gabor

2006-03-01

Miniature spring roll dielectric elastomer actuators for a novel kinematic-free force feedback concept were manufactured and experimentally characterized. The actuators exhibited a maximum blocking force of 7.2 N and a displacement of 5 mm. The theoretical considerations based on the material's incompressibility were discussed in order to estimate the actuator behavior under blocked-strain activation and free-strain activation. One prototype was built for the demonstration of the proposed force feedback concept.

Dielectric elastomers with novel highly-conducting electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Böse, Holger; Uhl, Detlev

2013-04-01

Beside the characteristics of the elastomer material itself, the performance of dielectric elastomers in actuator, sensor as well as generator applications depends also on the properties of the electrode material. Various electrode materials based on metallic particles dispersed in a silicone matrix were manufactured and investigated. Anisotropic particles such as silver-coated copper flakes and silver-coated glass flakes were used for the preparation of the electrodes. The concentration of the metallic particles and the thickness of the electrode layers were varied. Specific conductivities derived from resistance measurements reached about 100 S/cm and surmount those of the reference materials based on graphite and carbon black by up to three orders of magnitude. The high conductivities of the new electrode materials can be maintained even at very large stretch deformations up to 200 %.

Temperature dependence of the elastocaloric effect in natural rubber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Zhongjian; Sebald, Gael; Guyomar, Daniel

2017-07-01

The temperature dependence of the elastocaloric (eC) effect in natural rubber (NR) has been studied. This material exhibits a large eC effect over a broad temperature range from 0 °C to 49 °C. The maximum adiabatic temperature change (ΔT) occurred at 10 °C and the behavior could be predicted by the temperature dependence of the strain-induced crystallization (SIC) and the temperature-induced crystallization (TIC). The eC performance of NR was then compared with that of shape memory alloys (SMAs). This study contributes to the SIC research of NR and also broadens the application of elastomers.

Rapid solution casting under vacuum of very thick sheets of a segmented polyurethane elastomer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cuddihy, E. F.; Moacanin, J.

1981-01-01

A technique has been developed for rapidly casting from solution under vacuum smooth, bubble-free, clear-white and uniformly thick (about 0.20 cm) sheets of a segmented polyurethane elastomer. The casting is carried out from dimethylformamide solutions inside temperature-controlled air-circulated ovens in order to minimize the establishment of thermal gradients throughout the casting solution. The technique produces quality sheets in 9 days, compared with 40-45 days for an inferior film produced in open pans.

Synthesis and electromechanical characterization of a new acrylic dielectric elastomer with high actuation strain and dielectric strength

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Wei; Niu, Xiaofan; Yang, Xinguo; Zhang, Naifang; Pei, Qibing

2013-04-01

Dielectric Elastomers (DEs) can be actuated under high electric field to produce large strains. Most high-performing DE materials such as the 3M™ VHB™ membranes are commercial products designed for industrial pressure-sensitive adhesives. The limited knowledge of the exact chemical structures of these commercial materials has made it difficult to understand the relationship between molecular structures and electromechanical properties. In this work, new acrylic elastomers based on n-butyl acrylate and acrylic acid were synthesized from monomer solutions by UV-initiated bulk polymerization. The new acrylic copolymers have a potential to obtain high dielectric constant, actuation strain, dielectric strength, and a high energy density. Silicone and ester oligomer diacrylates were also added onto the copolymer structures to suppress crystallization and to crosslink the polymer chains. Four acrylic formulations were developed with different amounts of acrylic acid. This gives a tunable stiffness, while the dielectric constant is varied from 4.3 to 7.1. The figure-of-merit performance of the best formulation is 186 % area strain, 222 MV/m of dielectric strength, and 2.7 MJ/m3 of energy density. To overcome electromechanical instability, different prestrain ratios were investigated, and under the optimized prestrain, the material has a lifetime of thousands of cycles at 120 % area strain.

Soft-matter composites with electrically tunable elastic rigidity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shan, Wanliang; Lu, Tong; Majidi, Carmel

2013-08-01

We use a phase-changing metal alloy to reversibly tune the elastic rigidity of an elastomer composite. The elastomer is embedded with a sheet of low-melting-point Field’s metal and an electric Joule heater composed of a serpentine channel of liquid-phase gallium-indium-tin (Galinstan®) alloy. At room temperature, the embedded Field’s metal is solid and the composite remains elastically rigid. Joule heating causes the Field’s metal to melt and allows the surrounding elastomer to freely stretch and bend. Using a tensile testing machine, we measure that the effective elastic modulus of the composite reversibly changes by four orders of magnitude when powered on and off. This dramatic change in rigidity is accurately predicted with a model for an elastic composite. Reversible rigidity control is also accomplished by replacing the Field’s metal with shape memory polymer. In addition to demonstrating electrically tunable rigidity with an elastomer, we also introduce a new technique to rapidly produce soft-matter electronics and multifunctional materials in several minutes with laser-patterned adhesive film and masked deposition of liquid-phase metal alloy.

Experimental and failure analysis of the prosthetic finger joint implants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naidu, Sanjiv H.

Small joint replacement arthroplasty of the hand is a well accepted surgical procedure to restore function and cosmesis in an individual with a crippled hand. Silicone elastomers have been used as prosthetic material in various small hand joints for well over three decades. Although the clinical science aspects of silicone elastomer failure are well known, the physical science aspects of prosthetic failure are scant and vague. In the following thesis, using both an animal model, and actual retrieved specimens which have failed in human service, experimental and failure analysis of silicone finger joints are presented. Fractured surfaces of retrieved silicone trapezial implants, and silicone finger joint implants were studied with both FESEM and SEM; the mode of failure for silicone trapezium is by wear polishing, whereas the finger joint implants failed either by fatigue fracture or tearing of the elastomer, or a combination of both. Thermal analysis revealed that the retrieved elastomer implants maintained its viscoelastic properties throughout the service period. In order to provide for a more functional and physiologic arthroplasty a novel finger joint (Rolamite prosthesis) is proposed using more recently developed thermoplastic polymers. The following thesis also addresses the outcome of the experimental studies of the Rolamite prosthesis in a rabbit animal model, in addition to the failure analysis of the thermoplastic polymers while in service in an in vivo synovial environment. Results of retrieved Rolamite specimens suggest that the use for thermoplastic elastomers such as block copolymer based elastomers in a synovial environment such as a mammalian joint may very well be limited.

Foam injection molding of elastomers with iron microparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volpe, Valentina; D'Auria, Marco; Sorrentino, Luigi; Davino, Daniele; Pantani, Roberto

2015-12-01

In this work, a preliminary study of foam injection molding of a thermoplastic elastomer, Engage 8445, and its microcomposite loaded with iron particles was carried out, in order to evaluate the effect of the iron microparticles on the foaming process. In particular, reinforced samples have been prepared by using nanoparticles at 2% by volume. Nitrogen has been used as physical blowing agent. Foamed specimens consisting of neat and filled elastomer were characterized by density measurements and morphological analysis. While neat Engage has shown a well developed cellular morphology far from the injection point, the addition of iron microparticles considerably increased the homogeneity of the cellular morphology. Engage/iron foamed samples exhibited a reduction in density greater than 32%, with a good and homogeneous cellular morphology, both in the transition and in the core zones, starting from small distances from the injection point.

Fracture and healing of elastomers: A phase-transition theory and numerical implementation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Aditya; Francfort, Gilles A.; Lopez-Pamies, Oscar

2018-03-01

A macroscopic theory is proposed to describe, explain, and predict the nucleation and propagation of fracture and healing in elastomers undergoing arbitrarily large quasistatic deformations. The theory, which can be viewed as a natural generalization of the phase-field approximation of the variational theory of brittle fracture of Francfort and Marigo (1998) to account for physical attributes innate to elastomers that have been recently unveiled by experiments at high spatio-temporal resolution, rests on two central ideas. The first one is to view elastomers as solids capable to undergo finite elastic deformations and capable also to phase transition to another solid of vanishingly small stiffness: the forward phase transition serves to model the nucleation and propagation of fracture while the reverse phase transition models the possible healing. The second central idea is to take the phase transition to be driven by the competition between a combination of strain energy and hydrostatic stress concentration in the bulk and surface energy on the created/healed new surfaces in the elastomer. From an applications point of view, the proposed theory amounts to solving a system of two coupled and nonlinear PDEs for the deformation field and an order parameter, or phase field. A numerical scheme is presented to generate solutions for these PDEs in N = 2 and 3 space dimensions. This is based on an efficient non-conforming finite-element discretization, which remains stable for large deformations and elastomers of any compressibility, together with an implicit gradient flow solver, which is able to deal with the large changes in the deformation field that can ensue locally in space and time from the nucleation of fracture. The last part of this paper is devoted to presenting sample simulations of the so-called Gent-Park experiment. Those are confronted with recent experimental results for various types of silicone elastomers.

Stepwise Elastic Behavior in a Model Elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhawe, Dhananjay M.; Cohen, Claude; Escobedo, Fernando A.

2004-12-01

MonteCarlo simulations of an entanglement-free cross-linked polymer network of semiflexible chains reveal a peculiar stepwise elastic response. For increasing stress, step jumps in strain are observed that do not correlate with changes in the number of aligned chains. We show that this unusual behavior stems from the ability of the system to form multiple ordered chain domains that exclude the cross-linking species. This novel elastomer shows a toughening behavior similar to that observed in biological structural materials, such as muscle proteins and abalone shell adhesive.

Entirely soft dielectric elastomer robots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henke, E.-F. Markus; Wilson, Katherine E.; Anderson, Iain A.

2017-04-01

Multifunctional Dielectric Elastomer (DE) devices are well established as actuators, sensors and energy har- vesters. Since the invention of the Dielectric Elastomer Switch (DES), a piezoresistive electrode that can directly switch charge on and off, it has become possible to expand the wide functionality of DE structures even more. We show the application of fully soft DE subcomponents in biomimetic robotic structures. It is now possible to couple arrays of actuator/switch units together so that they switch charge between them- selves on and off. One can then build DE devices that operate as self-controlled oscillators. With an oscillator one can produce a periodic signal that controls a soft DE robot - a DE device with its own DE nervous system. DESs were fabricated using a special electrode mixture, and imprinting technology at an exact pre-strain. We have demonstrated six orders of magnitude change in conductivity within the DES over 50% strain. The control signal can either be a mechanical deformation from another DE or an electrical input to a connected dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA). We have demonstrated a variety of fully soft multifunctional subcomponents that enable the design of autonomous soft robots without conventional electronics. The combination of digital logic structures for basic signal processing, data storage in dielectric elastomer flip-flops and digital and analogue clocks with adjustable frequencies, made of dielectric elastomer oscillators (DEOs), enables fully soft, self-controlled and electronics-free robotic structures. DE robotic structures to date include stiff frames to maintain necessary pre-strains enabling sufficient actuation of DEAs. Here we present a design and production technology for a first robotic structure consisting only of soft silicones and carbon black.

Applications of pressure-sensitive dielectric elastomer sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Böse, Holger; Ocak, Deniz; Ehrlich, Johannes

2016-04-01

Dielectric elastomer sensors for the measurement of compression loads with high sensitivity are described. The basic design of the sensors exhibits two profiled surfaces between which an elastomer film is confined. All components of the sensor were prepared with silicone whose stiffness can be varied in a wide range. Depending on details of the sensor design, various effects contribute to the enhancement of the capacitance. The intermediate elastomer film is stretched upon compression and electrode layers on the elastomer profiles and in the elastomer film approach each other. Different designs of the pressure sensor give rise to very different sensor characteristics in terms of the dependence of electric capacitance on compression force. Due to their inherent flexibility, the pressure sensors can be used on compliant substrates such as seats or beds or on the human body. This gives rise to numerous possible applications. The contribution describes also some examples of possible sensor applications. A glove was equipped with various sensors positioned at the finger tips. When grabbing an object with the glove, the sensors can detect the gripping forces of the individual fingers with high sensitivity. In a demonstrator of the glove equipped with seven sensors, the capacitances representing the gripping forces are recorded on a display. In another application example, a lower limb prosthesis was equipped with a pressure sensor to detect the load on the remaining part of the leg and the load is displayed in terms of the measured capacitance. The benefit of such sensors is to detect an eventual overload in order to prevent possible pressure sores. A third example introduces a seat load sensor system based on four extended pressure sensor mats. The sensor system detects the load distribution of a person on the seat. The examples emphasize the high performance of the new pressure sensor technology.

A mortar formulation including viscoelastic layers for vibration analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paolini, Alexander; Kollmannsberger, Stefan; Rank, Ernst; Horger, Thomas; Wohlmuth, Barbara

2018-05-01

In order to reduce the transfer of sound and vibrations in structures such as timber buildings, thin elastomer layers can be embedded between their components. The influence of these elastomers on the response of the structures in the low frequency range can be determined accurately by using conforming hexahedral finite elements. Three-dimensional mesh generation, however, is yet a non-trivial task and mesh refinements which may be necessary at the junctions can cause a high computational effort. One remedy is to mesh the components independently from each other and to couple them using the mortar method. Further, the hexahedral mesh for the thin elastomer layer itself can be avoided by integrating its elastic behavior into the mortar formulation. The present paper extends this mortar formulation to take damping into account such that frequency response analyses can be performed more accurately. Finally, the proposed method is verified by numerical examples.

High temperature thermoplastic elastomers synthesized by living anionic polymerization in hydrocarbon solvent at room temperature

DOE PAGES

Schlegel, Ralf; Williams, Katherine; Voyloy, Dimitry; ...

2016-03-30

We present the synthesis and characterization of a new class of high temperature thermoplastic elastomers composed of polybenzofulvene–polyisoprene–polybenzofulvene (FIF) triblock copolymers. All copolymers were prepared by living anionic polymerization in benzene at room temperature. Homopolymerization and effects of additives on the glass transition temperature (T g) of polybenzofulvene (PBF) were also investigated. Among all triblock copolymers studied, FIF with 14 vol % of PBF exhibited a maximum stress of 14.3 ± 1.3 MPa and strain at break of 1390 ± 66% from tensile tests. The stress–strain curves of FIF-10 and 14 were analyzed by a statistical molecular approach using amore » nonaffine tube model to estimate the thermoplastic elastomer behavior. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that the softening temperature of PBF in FIF was 145 °C, much higher than that of thermoplastic elastomers with polystyrene hard blocks. Microphase separation of FIF triblock copolymers was observed by small-angle X-ray scattering, even though long-range order was not achieved under the annealing conditions employed. Additionally, the microphase separation of the resulting triblock copolymers was examined by atomic force microscopy.« less

High temperature thermoplastic elastomers synthesized by living anionic polymerization in hydrocarbon solvent at room temperature

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schlegel, Ralf; Williams, Katherine; Voyloy, Dimitry

We present the synthesis and characterization of a new class of high temperature thermoplastic elastomers composed of polybenzofulvene–polyisoprene–polybenzofulvene (FIF) triblock copolymers. All copolymers were prepared by living anionic polymerization in benzene at room temperature. Homopolymerization and effects of additives on the glass transition temperature (T g) of polybenzofulvene (PBF) were also investigated. Among all triblock copolymers studied, FIF with 14 vol % of PBF exhibited a maximum stress of 14.3 ± 1.3 MPa and strain at break of 1390 ± 66% from tensile tests. The stress–strain curves of FIF-10 and 14 were analyzed by a statistical molecular approach using amore » nonaffine tube model to estimate the thermoplastic elastomer behavior. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that the softening temperature of PBF in FIF was 145 °C, much higher than that of thermoplastic elastomers with polystyrene hard blocks. Microphase separation of FIF triblock copolymers was observed by small-angle X-ray scattering, even though long-range order was not achieved under the annealing conditions employed. Additionally, the microphase separation of the resulting triblock copolymers was examined by atomic force microscopy.« less

Adaptable liquid crystal elastomers with transesterification-based bond exchange reactions.

PubMed

Hanzon, Drew W; Traugutt, Nicholas A; McBride, Matthew K; Bowman, Christopher N; Yakacki, Christopher M; Yu, Kai

2018-02-14

Adaptable liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) have recently emerged to provide a new and robust method to program monodomain LCE samples. When a constant stress is applied with active bond exchange reactions (BERs), polymer chains and mesogens gradually align in the strain direction. Mesogen alignment is maintained after removing the BER stimulus (e.g. by lowering the temperature) and the programmed LCE samples exhibit free-standing two-way shape switching behavior. Here, a new adaptable main-chain LCE system was developed with thermally induced transesterification BERs. The network combines the conventional properties of LCEs, such as an isotropic phase transition and soft elasticity, with the dynamic features of adaptable network polymers, which are malleable to stress relaxation due to the BERs. Polarized Fourier transform infrared measurements confirmed the alignment of polymer chains and mesogens after strain-induced programming. The influence of the creep stress, temperature, and time on the strain amplitude of two-way shape switching was examined. The LCE network demonstrates an innovative feature of reprogrammability, where the reversible shape-switching memory of programmed LCEs is readily deleted by free-standing heating as random BERs disrupt the mesogen alignment, so LCEs are reprogrammed after returning to the polydomain state. Due to the dynamic nature of the LCE network, it also exhibits a surface welding effect and can be fully dissolved in the organic solvent, which might be utilized for green and sustainable recycling of LCEs.

Mechanical design handbook for elastomers. [the design of elastomer dampers for application in rotating machinery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Darlow, M.; Zorzi, E.

1981-01-01

A comprehensive guide for the design of elastomer dampers for application in rotating machinery is presented. Theoretical discussions, a step by step procedure for the design of elastomer dampers, and detailed examples of actual elastomer damper applications are included. Dynamic and general physical properties of elastomers are discussed along with measurement techniques.

Polyisoprene matrix for progesterone release: in vitro and in vivo studies.

PubMed

Heredia, V; Bianco, I D; Tríbulo, H; Tríbulo, R; Seoane, M Ferro; Faudone, S; Cuffini, S L; Demichelis, N A; Schalliol, H; Beltramo, D M

2009-12-01

Latex, a polyisoprene (PI) hydrophobic elastomer, was evaluated in vitro and in vivo as a matrix for intravaginal steroid hormone delivery. Matrices containing hormone were prepared by swelling latex in chloroform that contained soluble progesterone (P4). In vitro studies demonstrate that P4 release from PI follows a zero order model during at least 100 h and depends on initial load up to 10 mg cm(-2). The release of P4 from a PI matrix was found to be two times faster than from a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix. FT-IR and X-ray powder diffraction analysis of P4 polymorphs show that when nucleated in PDMS, the hormone crystallizes only in alpha-form while in latex, crystallizes as a mixture of alpha- and beta-form. In vivo studies show that devices with a PI matrix containing 0.5 g of P4 are effective to reach plasma levels above 1 ng ml(-1) that are needed to synchronize estrous in cattle. Altogether, the results show that PI, a vulcanized polymer with a carbon-carbon backbone, can be used as a new matrix for the intravaginal administration of progesterone with improved release profile than silicone and that the matrix can influence the crystalline state of the hormone.

Deformational characteristics of thermoplastic elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Indukuri, Kishore K.

This thesis focuses primarily on the structure-property relationships of poly (styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene) triblock copolymer TPEs. First evidence for strain-induced crystallization occurring in certain SEBS block copolymers has been established using unique techniques like deformation calorimetry, combined in-situ small angle X-ray and wide angle X-ray diffraction (SAXD/WAXD). Also the ramifications of such strain-induced crystallization on the mechanical properties like cyclic hysteresis, stress relaxation/creep retention of these SEBS systems have been studied. In addition, the structural changes in the morphology of these systems on deformation have been investigated using combined SAXD/WAXD setup. Small angle X-ray diffraction probed the changes at the nano-scale of polystyrene (PS) cylinders, while wide angle X-ray diffraction probed the changes at molecular length scales of the amorphous/crystalline domains of the elastomeric mid-block in these systems. New structural features at both these length scales have been observed and incorporated into the overall deformation mechanisms of the material. Continuous processing techniques like extrusion have been used to obtain ultra long-range order and orientation in these SEBS systems. Thus well ordered crystal like hexagonal packing of cylinders, where in each element in this hexagonal lattice can be individually addressed without any grain boundaries can be realized using these robust techniques. The effect of long-range order/orientation on the mechanical properties has been studied. In addition, these well ordered systems serve as model systems for evaluating deformation mechanisms of these SEBS systems, where the relative contributions of each of the phases can be estimated. EPDM/i-PP thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) have micron size scale phase separated morphologies of EPDM rubber dispersed in a semicrystalline i-PP matrix as a result of the dynamic vulcanization process. Confocal microscopy studies, along with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies show that the morphology of these EPDM/i-PP systems resembles a microcellular "filled" foam in which i-PP occupies the strut regions and EPDM the inner core. Based on this, an analytical model has been developed that takes into account composition information, molecular weight, cure state and morphology into account.

Skin-inspired hydrogel-elastomer hybrids with robust interfaces and functional microstructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuk, Hyunwoo; Zhang, Teng; Parada, German Alberto; Liu, Xinyue; Zhao, Xuanhe

2016-06-01

Inspired by mammalian skins, soft hybrids integrating the merits of elastomers and hydrogels have potential applications in diverse areas including stretchable and bio-integrated electronics, microfluidics, tissue engineering, soft robotics and biomedical devices. However, existing hydrogel-elastomer hybrids have limitations such as weak interfacial bonding, low robustness and difficulties in patterning microstructures. Here, we report a simple yet versatile method to assemble hydrogels and elastomers into hybrids with extremely robust interfaces (interfacial toughness over 1,000 Jm-2) and functional microstructures such as microfluidic channels and electrical circuits. The proposed method is generally applicable to various types of tough hydrogels and diverse commonly used elastomers including polydimethylsiloxane Sylgard 184, polyurethane, latex, VHB and Ecoflex. We further demonstrate applications enabled by the robust and microstructured hydrogel-elastomer hybrids including anti-dehydration hydrogel-elastomer hybrids, stretchable and reactive hydrogel-elastomer microfluidics, and stretchable hydrogel circuit boards patterned on elastomer.

Statistical analysis of magnetically soft particles in magnetorheological elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gundermann, T.; Cremer, P.; Löwen, H.; Menzel, A. M.; Odenbach, S.

2017-04-01

The physical properties of magnetorheological elastomers (MRE) are a complex issue and can be influenced and controlled in many ways, e.g. by applying a magnetic field, by external mechanical stimuli, or by an electric potential. In general, the response of MRE materials to these stimuli is crucially dependent on the distribution of the magnetic particles inside the elastomer. Specific knowledge of the interactions between particles or particle clusters is of high relevance for understanding the macroscopic rheological properties and provides an important input for theoretical calculations. In order to gain a better insight into the correlation between the macroscopic effects and microstructure and to generate a database for theoretical analysis, x-ray micro-computed tomography (X-μCT) investigations as a base for a statistical analysis of the particle configurations were carried out. Different MREs with quantities of 2-15 wt% (0.27-2.3 vol%) of iron powder and different allocations of the particles inside the matrix were prepared. The X-μCT results were edited by an image processing software regarding the geometrical properties of the particles with and without the influence of an external magnetic field. Pair correlation functions for the positions of the particles inside the elastomer were calculated to statistically characterize the distributions of the particles in the samples.

A modelling approach for the heterogeneous oxidation of elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herzig, A.; Sekerakova, L.; Johlitz, M.; Lion, A.

2017-09-01

The influence of oxygen on elastomers, known as oxidation, is one of the most important ageing processes and becomes more and more important for nowadays applications. The interaction with thermal effects as well as antioxidants makes oxidation of polymers a complex process. Based on the polymer chosen and environmental conditions, the ageing processes may behave completely different. In a lot of cases the influence of oxygen is limited to the surface layer of the samples, commonly referred to as diffusion-limited oxidation. For the lifetime prediction of elastomer components, it is essential to have detailed knowledge about the absorption and diffusion behaviour of oxygen molecules during thermo-oxidative ageing and how they react with the elastomer. Experimental investigations on industrially used elastomeric materials are executed in order to develop and fit models, which shall be capable of predicting the permeation and consumption of oxygen as well as changes in the mechanical properties. The latter are of prime importance for technical applications of rubber components. Oxidation does not occur homogeneously over the entire elastomeric component. Hence, material models which include ageing effects have to be amplified in order to consider heterogeneous ageing, which highly depends on the ageing temperature. The influence of elevated temperatures upon accelerated ageing has to be critically analysed, and influences on the permeation and diffusion coefficient have to be taken into account. This work presents phenomenological models which describe the oxygen uptake and the diffusion into elastomers based on an improved understanding of ongoing chemical processes and diffusion limiting modifications. On the one side, oxygen uptake is modelled by means of Henry's law in which solubility is a function of the temperature as well as the ageing progress. The latter is an irreversible process and described by an inner differential evolution equation. On the other side, further diffusion of oxygen into the material is described by a model based on Fick's law, which is modified by a reaction term. The evolved diffusion-reaction equation depends on the ageing temperature as well as on the progress of ageing and is able to describe diffusion-limited oxidation.

Actuator device utilizing a conductive polymer gel

DOEpatents

Chinn, Douglas A.; Irvin, David J.

2004-02-03

A valve actuator based on a conductive polymer gel is disclosed. A nonconductive housing is provided having two separate chambers separated by a porous frit. The conductive polymer is held in one chamber and an electrolyte solution, used as a source of charged ions, is held in the second chamber. The ends of the housing a sealed with a flexible elastomer. The polymer gel is further provide with electrodes with which to apply an electrical potential across the gel in order to initiate an oxidation reaction which in turn drives anions across the porous frit and into the polymer gel, swelling the volume of the gel and simultaneously contracting the volume of the electrolyte solution. Because the two end chambers are sealed the flexible elastomer expands or contracts with the chamber volume change. By manipulating the potential across the gel the motion of the elastomer can be controlled to act as a "gate" to open or close a fluid channel and thereby control flow through that channel.

Influence of carbonyl iron particle coating with silica on the properties of magnetorheological elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Małecki, P.; Królewicz, M.; Hiptmair, F.; Krzak, J.; Kaleta, J.; Major, Z.; Pigłowski, J.

2016-10-01

In this paper, the influence of encapsulating carbonyl iron particles with various silica coatings on the properties of magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) was investigated. A soft styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene thermoplastic elastomer was used as the composite’s polymer matrix. Spherical carbonyl iron powder (CIP) acted as the ferromagnetic filler. In order to improve the metal-polymer interaction, carbonyl iron particles were coated with two types of single and six types of double silica layers. The first layer was created through a TMOS or TEOS hydrolysis whereas the second one was composed of organosilanes. The mechanical properties of MREs containing 38.5 vol% of CIP were analysed under dynamic loading conditions. To investigate the magnetorheological effect in these composites, a 430 mT magnetic field, generated by an array of permanent magnets, was applied during testing. The results revealed that the magnetomechanical response of the MREs differs substantially, depending on the kind of particle coating.

Mechanical Design Handbook for Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Darlow, M.; Zorzi, E.

1986-01-01

Mechanical Design Handbook for Elastomers reviews state of art in elastomer-damper technology with particular emphasis on applications of highspeed rotor dampers. Self-contained reference but includes some theoretical discussion to help reader understand how and why dampers used for rotating machines. Handbook presents step-by-step procedure for design of elastomer dampers and detailed examples of actual elastomer damper applications.

Tuned, driven, and active soft matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Menzel, Andreas M.

2015-02-01

One characteristic feature of soft matter systems is their strong response to external stimuli. As a consequence they are comparatively easily driven out of their ground state and out of equilibrium, which leads to many of their fascinating properties. Here, we review illustrative examples. This review is structured by an increasing distance from the equilibrium ground state. On each level, examples of increasing degree of complexity are considered. In detail, we first consider systems that are quasi-statically tuned or switched to a new state by applying external fields. These are common liquid crystals, liquid crystalline elastomers, or ferrogels and magnetic elastomers. Next, we concentrate on systems steadily driven from outside e.g. by an imposed flow field. In our case, we review the reaction of nematic liquid crystals, of bulk-filling periodically modulated structures such as block copolymers, and of localized vesicular objects to an imposed shear flow. Finally, we focus on systems that are "active" and "self-driven". Here our range spans from idealized self-propelled point particles, via sterically interacting particles like granular hoppers, via microswimmers such as self-phoretically driven artificial Janus particles or biological microorganisms, via deformable self-propelled particles like droplets, up to the collective behavior of insects, fish, and birds. As we emphasize, similarities emerge in the features and behavior of systems that at first glance may not necessarily appear related. We thus hope that our overview will further stimulate the search for basic unifying principles underlying the physics of these soft materials out of their equilibrium ground state.

Compatibility Study for Plastic, Elastomeric, and Metallic Fueling Infrastructure Materials Exposed to Aggressive Formulations of Ethanol-blended Gasoline

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kass, Michael D; Pawel, Steven J; Theiss, Timothy J

In 2008 Oak Ridge National Laboratory began a series of experiments to evaluate the compatibility of fueling infrastructure materials with intermediate levels of ethanol-blended gasoline. Initially, the focus was elastomers, metals, and sealants, and the test fuels were Fuel C, CE10a, CE17a and CE25a. The results of these studies were published in 2010. Follow-on studies were performed with an emphasis on plastic (thermoplastic and thermoset) materials used in underground storage and dispenser systems. These materials were exposed to test fuels of Fuel C and CE25a. Upon completion of this effort, it was felt that additional compatibility data with higher ethanolmore » blends was needed and another round of experimentation was performed on elastomers, metals, and plastics with CE50a and CE85a test fuels. Compatibility of polymers typically relates to the solubility of the solid polymer with a solvent. It can also mean susceptibility to chemical attack, but the polymers and test fuels evaluated in this study are not considered to be chemically reactive with each other. Solubility in polymers is typically assessed by measuring the volume swell of the polymer exposed to the solvent of interest. Elastomers are a class of polymers that are predominantly used as seals, and most o-ring and seal manufacturers provide compatibility tables of their products with various solvents including ethanol, toluene, and isooctane, which are components of aggressive oxygenated gasoline as described by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1681. These tables include a ranking based on the level of volume swell in the elastomer associated with exposure to a particular solvent. Swell is usually accompanied by a decrease in hardness (softening) that also affects performance. For seal applications, shrinkage of the elastomer upon drying is also a critical parameter since a contraction of volume can conceivably enable leakage to occur. Shrinkage is also indicative of the removal of one or more components of the elastomers (by the solvent). This extraction of additives can negatively change the properties of the elastomer, leading to reduced performance and durability. For a seal application, some level of volume swell is acceptable, since the expansion will serve to maintain a seal. However, the acceptable level of swell is dependent on the particular application of the elastomer product. It is known that excessive swell can lead to unacceptable extrusion of the elastomer beyond the sealed interface, where it becomes susceptible to damage. Also, since high swell is indicative of high solubility, there is a heightened potential for fluid to seep through the seal and into the environment. Plastics, on the other hand, are used primarily in structural applications, such as solid components, including piping and fluid containment. Volume change, especially in a rigid system, will create internal stresses that may negatively affect performance. In order to better understand and predict the compatibility for a given polymer type and fuel composition, an analysis based on Hansen solubility theory was performed for each plastic and elastomer material. From this study, the solubility distance was calculated for each polymer material and test fuel combination. Using the calculated solubility distance, the ethanol concentration associated with peak swell and overall extent of swell can be predicted for each polymer. The bulk of the material discussion centers on the plastic materials, and their compatibility with Fuel C, CE25a, CE50a, and CE85a. The next section of this paper focuses on the elastomer compatibility with the higher ethanol concentrations with comparison to results obtained previously for the lower ethanol levels. The elastomers were identical to those used in the earlier study. Hansen solubility theory is also applied to the elastomers to provide added interpretation of the results. The final section summarizes the performance of the metal coupons.« less

The Current State of Silicone-Based Dielectric Elastomer Transducers.

PubMed

Madsen, Frederikke B; Daugaard, Anders E; Hvilsted, Søren; Skov, Anne L

2016-03-01

Silicone elastomers are promising materials for dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) due to their superior properties such as high efficiency, reliability and fast response times. DETs consist of thin elastomer films sandwiched between compliant electrodes, and they constitute an interesting class of transducer due to their inherent lightweight and potentially large strains. For the field to progress towards industrial implementation, a leap in material development is required, specifically targeting longer lifetime and higher energy densities to provide more efficient transduction at lower driving voltages. In this review, the current state of silicone elastomers for DETs is summarised and critically discussed, including commercial elastomers, composites, polymer blends, grafted elastomers and complex network structures. For future developments in the field it is essential that all aspects of the elastomer are taken into account, namely dielectric losses, lifetime and the very often ignored polymer network integrity and stability. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Plate impact experiments on DC745U cooled to ~ -60 °C

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gustavsen, Richard L.; Dattelbaum, Dana M.; Bartram, Brian Douglas

2016-08-11

Using gas-gun driven plate impact experiments, we have measured the U S - u p Hugoniot of the silicone elastomer DC745U cooled to -60 °C. In summary, the initial density changes from p 0 (23°C) = 1.312 ± 0.010 g/cm 3 to p 0 (-60°C) = 1.447 ± 0.011 g/cm 3. The linear U S - u p Hugoniot changes from U S = 1.62 + 1.74u p km/s at +23°C, to U S = 2.03 ± 0.06 + (2.03 ± 0.06) u p km/s at -60°C. DC745U, therefore is much stiffer at -60°C than at +23°C, probably due tomore » the crystallization that occurs at ~ -50°C. Caveats/deficiencies: 1) This report does not provide an adequate pedigree of the DC745U used. 2) References to unpublished room temperature shock compression data on the elastomer are inadequate. 3) The report has not been fact checked by a DC745 subject matter expert.« less

Switchable adhesion for wafer-handling based on dielectric elastomer stack transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grotepaß, T.; Butz, J.; Förster-Zügel, F.; Schlaak, H. F.

2016-04-01

Vacuum grippers are often used for the handling of wafers and small devices. In order to evacuate the gripper, a gas flow is created that can harm the micro structures on the wafer. A promising alternative to vacuum grippers could be adhesive grippers with switchable adhesion. There have been some publications of gecko-inspired adhesive devices. Most of these former works consist of a structured surface which adheres to the object manipulated and an actuator for switching the adhesion. Until now different actuator principles have been investigated, like smart memory alloys and pneumatics. In this work for the first time dielectric elastomer stack transducers (DEST) are combined with a structured surface. DESTs are a promising new transducer technology with many applications in different industry sectors like medical devices, human-machine-interaction and soft robotics. Stacked dielectric elastomer transducers show thickness contraction originating from the electromechanical pressure of two compliant electrodes compressing an elastomeric dielectric when a voltage is applied. Since DESTs and the adhesive surfaces previously described are made of elastomers, it is self-evident to combine both systems in one device. The DESTs are fabricated by a spin coating process. If the flat surface of the spinning carrier is substituted for example by a perforated one, the structured elastomer surface and the DEST can be fabricated in one process. By electrical actuation the DEST contracts and laterally expands which causes the gecko-like cilia to adhere on the object to manipulate. This work describes the assembly and the experimental results of such a device using switchable adhesion. It is intended to be used for the handling of glass wafers.

X-ray scattering to probe cracks in rubbers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Creton, Costantino; Demassieux, Quentin; Berghezan, Daniel

Natural rubber is a well-known very tough elastomer and its toughness is generally attributed to its aptitude to crystallize under strain. Yet the mechanism linking the extent of strain induced crystallization to the toughness gamma is still unclear. We mapped by scanning microbeam X-ray diffraction (20 microns resolution), the strain induced crystallization near the crack tip of highly crosslinked and carbon-black filled natural rubbers. Experiments were carried out on static cracks loaded at different values of energy release rates G and for different filler and crosslinker concentrations. We specifically investigated the effect of the crosslinking density, the effect of thermal (oxygen-free) aging and the effect of temperature (between 23 and 100 °C). Several novel findings are reported : a significant amount of crystallization was still present at the crack tip at 100°C, thermal aging (in the absence of oxygen) greatly reduces the amount of crystallization at the crack tip without much effect on the room temperature resistance to fatigue crack propagation of the material, and an increase in crosslinking density reduces the extent of crystallinity at the crack tip for the same applied G. We acknowledge the financial support of Michelin.

Gain media edge treatment to suppress amplified spontaneous emission in a high power laser

DOEpatents

Hackel, Lloyd A.; Soules, Thomas F.; Fochs, Scott N.; Rotter, Mark D.; Letts, Stephan A.

2008-12-09

A novel method and apparatus for suppressing ASE and parasitic oscillation modes in a high average power laser is introduced. By roughening one or more peripheral edges of a solid-state crystal or ceramic laser gain media and by bonding such edges using a substantially high index bonding elastomer or epoxy to a predetermined electromagnetic absorbing arranged adjacent to the entire outer surface of the peripheral edges of the roughened laser gain media, ASE and parasitic oscillation modes can be effectively suppressed.

Near-Infrared Chromophore Functionalized Soft Actuator with Ultrafast Photoresponsive Speed and Superior Mechanical Property.

PubMed

Liu, Li; Liu, Mei-Hua; Deng, Lin-Lin; Lin, Bao-Ping; Yang, Hong

2017-08-23

In this Communication, we develop a two-step acyclic diene metathesis in situ polymerization/cross-linking method to synthesize uniaxially aligned main-chain liquid crystal elastomers with chemically bonded near-infrared absorbing four-alkenyl-tailed croconaine-core cross-linkers. Because of the extraordinary photothermal conversion property, such a soft actuator material can raise its local temperature from 18 to 260 °C in 8 s, and lift up burdens 5600 times heavier than its own weight, under 808 nm near-infrared irradiation.

Evaluation of the effect of different stretching patterns on force decay and tensile properties of elastomeric ligatures

PubMed Central

Aminian, Amin; Nakhaei, Samaneh; Agahi, Raha Habib; Rezaeizade, Masoud; Aliabadi, Hamed Mirzazadeh; Heidarpour, Majid

2015-01-01

Background: There have been numerous researches on elastomeric ligatures, but clinical conditions in different stages of treatment are not exactly similar to laboratory conditions. The aim of this in vitro study was to simulate clinical conditions and evaluate the effect of three stretching patterns on the amount of force, tensile strength (TS) and extension to TS of the elastomers during 8 weeks. Materials and Methods: Forces, TS and extension to TS of two different brands of elastomers were measured at initial, 24 h and 2, 4, and 8-week intervals using a testing machine. During the study period, the elastomers were stored in three different types of jig (uniform stretching, 1 and 3 mm point stretching) designed by the computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technique in order to simulate the different stages of orthodontic treatment. Results: The elastomeric ligatures under study exhibited a similar force decay pattern. The maximum force decay occurred during the first 24 h (49.9% ± 15%) and the amount of force decay was 75.7% ± 8% after 8 weeks. In general, the TS decreased during the study period, and the amount of extension to TS increased. Conclusion: Although the elastic behavior of all ligatures under study was similar, the amount of residual force, TS and extension to TS increased in elastomers under point stretching pattern. PMID:26759597

Evaluation of the effect of different stretching patterns on force decay and tensile properties of elastomeric ligatures.

PubMed

Aminian, Amin; Nakhaei, Samaneh; Agahi, Raha Habib; Rezaeizade, Masoud; Aliabadi, Hamed Mirzazadeh; Heidarpour, Majid

2015-01-01

There have been numerous researches on elastomeric ligatures, but clinical conditions in different stages of treatment are not exactly similar to laboratory conditions. The aim of this in vitro study was to simulate clinical conditions and evaluate the effect of three stretching patterns on the amount of force, tensile strength (TS) and extension to TS of the elastomers during 8 weeks. Forces, TS and extension to TS of two different brands of elastomers were measured at initial, 24 h and 2, 4, and 8-week intervals using a testing machine. During the study period, the elastomers were stored in three different types of jig (uniform stretching, 1 and 3 mm point stretching) designed by the computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technique in order to simulate the different stages of orthodontic treatment. The elastomeric ligatures under study exhibited a similar force decay pattern. The maximum force decay occurred during the first 24 h (49.9% ± 15%) and the amount of force decay was 75.7% ± 8% after 8 weeks. In general, the TS decreased during the study period, and the amount of extension to TS increased. Although the elastic behavior of all ligatures under study was similar, the amount of residual force, TS and extension to TS increased in elastomers under point stretching pattern.

Electric field around a dielectric elastomer actuator in proximity to the human body

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McKenzie, Anita C.; Calius, Emilio P.; Anderson, Iain A.

2008-03-01

Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are a promising artificial muscle technology that will enable new kinds of prostheses and wearable rehabilitation devices. DEAs are driven by electric fields in the MV/m range and the dielectric elastomer itself is typically 30μm in thickness or more. Large operating voltages, in the order of several kilovolts, are then required to produce useful strains and these large voltages and the resulting electric fields could potentially pose problems when DEAs are used in close proximity to the human body. The fringing electric fields of a DEA in close association with the skin were modelled using finite element methods. The model was verified against a known analytic solution describing the electric field surrounding a capacitor in air. The agreement between the two is good, as the difference is less than 10% unless within 4.5mm of the DEA's lateral edges. As expected, it was found that for a DEA constructed with thinner dielectric layers, the fringe field strength dropped in direct proportion to the reduction in applied voltage, despite the internal field being maintained at the same level. More interestingly, modelling the electric field around stacked DEAs showed that for an even number of layers the electric field is an order of magnitude less than for an odd number of layers, due to the cancelling of opposing electric fields.

75 FR 39664 - Grant of Authority For Subzone Status Materials Science Technology, Inc. (Specialty Elastomers...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-12

... Status Materials Science Technology, Inc. (Specialty Elastomers and Fire Retardant Chemicals) Conroe... specialty elastomer manufacturing and distribution facility of Materials Science Technology, Inc., located... and distribution of specialty elastomers and fire retardant chemicals at the facility of Materials...

Synthesis, characterization and applications of new photocurable and biodegradable elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Jinrong

Biodegradable elastomers have attracted a great deal of interest due to their potential applications in the biomedical field. Based on the advantages of the photocuring method, a new series of photocurable and biodegradable elastomers were designed. By using step growth polymerization, polyester liquids with different composition and molecular weights were synthesized. After endcapping with methacrylate groups, these liquids can be easily fabricated into completely amorphous elastomers by UV exposure for 1 min at room conditions. The prepared elastomers presented a wide range of mechanical properties (G = 0.1-10 MPa) and a fast degradation rate (16% after 5 week incubation in PBS). The in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility studies of the elastomers indicated that these elastomers were good candidates as tissue engineering scaffolds. Meanwhile, the functionality of these photocurable elastomers was expanded by incorporation of amine containing monomers, and new elastomers were prepared to explore their potential as drug carrier systems. Monodispersed elastomeric particles were fabricated out of these amine containing materials by PRINT(TM) technology. These particles showed pH sensitive drug release of Doxorubicin (a hydrophobic drug model) and Minocycline chloride (a hydrophilic drug model), and the release profiles can be further tuned by the incorporation of a disulfide crosslinker.

21 CFR 177.1590 - Polyester elastomers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Polyester elastomers. 177.1590 Section 177.1590... Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1590 Polyester elastomers. The polyester...) For the purpose of this section, polyester elastomers are those produced by the ester exchange...

21 CFR 177.1590 - Polyester elastomers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Polyester elastomers. 177.1590 Section 177.1590... Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1590 Polyester elastomers. The polyester...) For the purpose of this section, polyester elastomers are those produced by the ester exchange...

Thermoreversible networks for moldable photo-responsive elastomers (Presentation Recording)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kornfield, Julia A.; Kurji, Zuleikha

2015-10-01

Soft-solids that retain the responsive optical anisotropy of liquid crystals (LC) can be used as mechano-optical, electro-optical and electro-mechanical elements. We use self-assembly of block copolymers to create reversible LC gels and elastomers that flow at elevated temperatures and physically cross link upon cooling. In the melt, they can be spun, coated or molded. Segregation of the end-blocks forms uniform and uniformly spaced crosslinks. Matched sets of block copolymers are synthesized from a single "prepolymer." Specifically, we begin with polymers having polystyrene (PS) end blocks and a poly(1,2-butadiene) midblock. The pendant vinyl groups along the backbone of the midblock are used to graft mesogens, converting it to a side-group LC polymer (SGLCP). In the present case, cyanobiphenyl groups are used as the nonphotoresponsive mesogens and azobenzene groups are used as photoresponsive mesogens. Here we show that matched pairs of block copolymers, with and without photo-responsive mesogens, provide model systems in which the optical density can be adjusted while holding other properties fixed (cross-link density, modulus, birefringence, isotropic-nematic transition temperature). For example, a triblock in which the SGLCP block has 95% cyanobiphenyl and 5% azo side groups is miscible with one having 100% cyanobiphenyl side groups. Simply blending the two gives a series of LC elastomers that have from 0 to 5% azo, while having all other physical properties matched. Results will be presented that show the outcomesof this approach to systematic and largely independent control of optical density and photo-mechanical sensitivity.

Liquid-Crystalline Elastomers with Gold Nanoparticle Cross-Linkers.

PubMed

Wójcik, Michał M; Wróbel, Jarosław; Jańczuk, Zuzanna Z; Mieczkowski, Józef; Górecka, Ewa; Choi, Joonmyung; Cho, Maenghyo; Pociecha, Damian

2017-07-03

Embedding nanoparticles in a responsive polymer matrix is a formidable way to fabricate hybrid materials with predesigned properties and prospective applications in actuators, mechanically tunable optical elements, and electroclinic films. However, achieving chemical compatibility between nanoparticles and organic matter is not trivial and often results in disordered structures. Herein, it is shown that using nanoparticles as exclusive cross-linkers in the preparation of liquid-crystalline polymers can yield long-range-ordered liquid-crystalline elastomers with high loadings of well-dispersed nanoparticles, as confirmed by small-angle XRD measurements. Moreover, the strategy of incorporating NPs as cross-linking units does not result in disruption of mechanical properties of the polymer, and this phenomenon was explained by the means of all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. Such materials can exhibit switchable behavior under thermal stimulus with stability spanning over multiple heating/cooling cycles. The presented strategy has proven to be a promising approach for the preparation of new types of hybrid liquid-crystalline elastomers that can be of value for future photonic applications. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Dielectric elastomer actuators used for pneumatic valve technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giousouf, Metin; Kovacs, Gabor

2013-10-01

Dielectric elastomer actuators have been investigated for applications in the field of pneumatic automation technology. We have developed different valve designs with stacked dielectric elastomer actuators and with integrated high voltage converters. The actuators were made using VHB-4910 material and a stacker machine for automated fabrication of the cylindrical actuators. Typical characteristics of pneumatic valves such as flow rate, power consumption and dynamic behaviour are presented. For valve construction the force and stroke parameters of the dielectric elastomer actuator have been measured. Further, benefits for valve applications using dielectric elastomers are shown as well as their potential operational area. Finally, challenges are discussed that are relevant for the use of elastomer actuators in valves for industrial applications.

Soft Polydimethylsiloxane Elastomers from Architecture-driven Entanglement Free Design

PubMed Central

Cai, Li-Heng; Kodger, Thomas E.; Guerra, Rodrigo E.; Pegoraro, Adrian F.; Rubinstein, Michael; Weitz, David A.

2015-01-01

We fabricate soft, solvent-free polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers by crosslinking bottlebrush polymers rather than linear polymers. We design the chemistry to allow commercially available linear PDMS precursors to deterministically form bottlebrush polymers, which are simultaneously crosslinked, enabling a one-step synthesis. The bottlebrush architecture prevents the formation of entanglements, resulting in elastomers with precisely controllable elastic moduli from ~1 to ~100 kPa, below the intrinsic lower limit of traditional elastomers. Moreover, the solvent-free nature of the soft PDMS elastomers enables a negligible contact adhesion compared to commercially available silicone products of similar stiffness. The exceptional combination of softness and negligible adhesiveness may greatly broaden the applications of PDMS elastomers in both industry and research. PMID:26259975

Solid Silicone Elastomer Material(DC745U)-Historical Overview and New Experimental Results

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ortiz-Acosta, Denisse

2012-08-08

DC745U is a silicone elastomer used in several weapon systems. DC745U is manufactured by Dow Corning and its formulation is proprietary. Risk changes without notification to the customer. {sup 1}H and {sup 29}Si{l_brace}{sup 1}H{r_brace} NMR have previously determined that DC745U contains {approx} 98.5% dimethyl siloxane, {approx}1.5% methyl-phenyl siloxane, and a small amount (<1%) of vinyl siloxane repeat units that are converted to crosslinking sites. The polymer is filled with {approx} 38 wt.% of a mixture of fumed silica and quartz. Some conclusions are: (1) DMA shows that crystallization does have an effect on the mechanical properties of DC745U; (2) DMAmore » shows that the crystallization is time and temperature dependent; (3) Mechanical tests show that DC745U undergo a crystalline transition at temperatures below -50 C; (4) Rate and temperature does not have an effect above crystalline transition; (5) Crystalline transition occurs faster at colder temperatures; (6) The material remains responsive and recovers after warming it to temperature above -40 C; (7) We were able to review all previous historical data on DC745U; (8) Identified specific gaps in materials understanding; (9) Developed design of experiments and testing methods to address gaps associated with post-curing and low temperature mechanical behavior; (10) Resolved questions of post-cure and alleviated concerns associated with low temperature mechanical behavior with soak time and temperature; and (11) This work is relevant to mission-critical programs and for supporting programmatic work for weapon research.« less

Thermodynamics and instability of dielectric elastomer (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Liwu; Liu, Yanju; Leng, Jinsong; Mu, Tong

2017-04-01

Dielectric elastomer is a kind of typical soft active material. It can deform obviously when subjected to an external voltage. When a dielectric elastomer with randomly oriented dipoles is subject to an electric field, the dipoles will rotate to and align with the electric field. The polarization of the dielectric elastomer may be saturated when the voltage is high enough. When subjected to a mechanical force, the end-to-end distance of each polymer chain, which has a finite contour length, will approach the finite value, reaching a limiting stretch. On approaching the limiting stretch, the elastomer stiffens steeply. Here, we develop a thermodynamic constitutive model of dielectric elastomers undergoing polarization saturation and strain-stiffening, and then investigate the stability (electromechanical stability, snap-through stability) and voltage induced deformation of dielectric elastomers. Analytical solution has been obtained and it reveals the marked influence of the extension limit and polarization saturation limit on its instability. The developed thermodynamic constitutive model and simulation results would be helpful in future to the research of dielectric elastomer based high-performance transducers.

Phase Behavior of Three PBX Elastomers in High-Pressure Chlorodifluoromethane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Byung-Chul

2017-10-01

The phase equilibrium behavior data are presented for three kinds of commercial polymer-bonded explosive (PBX) elastomers in chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC22). Levapren^{{registered }} ethylene- co-vinyl acetate (LP-EVA), HyTemp^{{registered }} alkyl acrylate copolymer (HT-ACM), and Viton^{{registered }} fluoroelastomer (VT-FE) were used as the PBX elastomers. For each elastomer + HCFC22 system, the cloud point (CP) and/or bubble point (BP) pressures were measured while varying the temperature and elastomer composition using a phase equilibrium apparatus fitted with a variable-volume view cell. The elastomers examined in this study indicated a lower critical solution temperature phase behavior in the HCFC22 solvent. LP-EVA showed the CPs at temperatures of 323 K to 343 K and at pressures of 3 MPa to 10 MPa, whereas HT-ACM showed the CPs at conditions between 338 K and 363 K and between 4 MPa and 12 MPa. For the LP-EVA and HT-ACM elastomers, the BP behavior was observed at temperatures below about 323 K. For the VT-FE + HCFC22 system, only the CP behavior was observed at temperatures between 323 K and 353 K and at pressures between 6 MPa and 21 MPa. As the elastomer composition increased, the CP pressure increased, reached a maximum value at a specific elastomer composition, and then remained almost constant.

Artificial muscles of dielectric elastomers attached to artificial tendons of functionalized carbon fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Zhihang; Faisal, Md. Shahnewaz Sabit; Asmatulu, Ramazan; Chen, Zheng

2014-03-01

Dielectric elastomers are soft actuation materials with promising applications in robotics and biomedical de- vices. In this paper, a bio-inspired artificial muscle actuator with artificial tendons is developed for robotic arm applications. The actuator uses dielectric elastomer as artificial muscle and functionalized carbon fibers as artificial tendons. A VHB 4910 tape is used as the dielectric elastomer and PDMS is used as the bonding material to mechanically connect the carbon fibers to the elastomer. Carbon fibers are highly popular for their high electrical conductivities, mechanical strengths, and bio-compatibilities. After the acid treatments for the functionalization of carbon fibers (500 nm - 10 μm), one end of carbon fibers is spread into the PDMS material, which provides enough bonding strength with other dielectric elastomers, while the other end is connected to a DC power supply. To characterize the actuation capability of the dielectric elastomer and electrical conductivity of carbon fibers, a diaphragm actuator is fabricated, where the carbon fibers are connected to the actuator. To test the mechanical bonding between PDMS and carbon fibers, specimens of PDMS bonded with carbon fibers are fabricated. Experiments have been conducted to verify the actuation capability of the dielectric elastomer and mechanical bonding of PDMS with carbon fibers. The energy efficiency of the dielectric elastomer increases as the load increases, which can reach above 50%. The mechanical bonding is strong enough for robotic arm applications.

Experimental Characterization of Nonlinear Viscoelastic and Adhesive Properties of Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-27

Final report to the Office of Naval Research on the Experimental Characterization of Nonlinear Viscoelastic and Adhesive Properties of Elastomers ...Experimental Characterization of Nonlinear Viscoelastic and Adhesive Properties of Elastomers 5b. GRANT NUMBER N000 14-1-0400 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT...Experimental Characterization of Nonlinear Viscoelastic and Adhesive Properties of Elastomers Principal Investigator K. Ravi-Chandar Organization The University

Effect of tulle on the mechanical properties of a maxillofacial silicone elastomer.

PubMed

Gunay, Yumushan; Kurtoglu, Cem; Atay, Arzu; Karayazgan, Banu; Gurbuz, Cihan Cem

2008-11-01

The purpose of this research was to investigate if physical properties could be improved by incorporating a tulle reinforcement material into a maxillofacial silicone elastomer. A-2186 silicone elastomer was used in this study. The study group consisted of 20 elastomer specimens incorporated with tulle and fabricated in dumbbell-shaped silicone patterns using ASTM D412 and D624 standards. The control group consisted of 20 elastomer specimens fabricated without tulle. Tensile strength, ultimate elongation, and tear strength of all specimens were measured and analyzed. Statistical analyses were performed using Mann-Whitney U test with a statistical significance at 95% confidence level. It was found that the tensile and tear strengths of tulle-incorporated maxillofacial silicone elastomer were higher than those without tulle incorporation (p < 0.05). Therefore, findings of this study suggested that tulle successfully reinforced a maxillofacial silicone elastomer by providing it with better mechanical properties and augmented strength--especially for the delicate edges of maxillofacial prostheses.

Preparation and properties of adjacency crosslinked polyurethane-urea elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yuan; Cao, Yu-Yang; Wu, Shou-Peng; Li, Zai-Feng

2012-12-01

Adjacency crosslinked polyurethane-urea (PUU) elastomers with different crosslinking density were prepared by using hydroxyl-terminated liquid butadiene-nitrile (HTBN), toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and chain extender 3,5-dimethyl thio-toluene diamine (DMTDA) as raw materials, dicumyl peroxide (DCP) as initiator, and N,N'-m-phenylene dimaleimide (HVA-2) as the crosslinking agent. The influences of the crosslinking density and temperature on the structure and properties of such elastomers were investigated. The crosslinking density of PUU elastomer was tested by the NMR method. It is found that when the content of HVA-2 is 1.5%, the mechanical properties of polyurethane elastomer achieve optimal performance. By testing thermal performance of PUU, compared with linear PUU, the thermal stability of the elastomers has a marked improvement. With the addition of HVA-2, the loss factor tan δ decreases. FT-IR spectral studies of PUU elastomer at various temperatures were performed. From this study, heat-resistance polyurethane could be prepared, and the properties of PUU at high temperature could be improved obviously.

Indentation of a stretched elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Yue; Crosby, Alfred J.; Cai, Shengqiang

2017-10-01

Indentation has been intensively used to characterize mechanical properties of soft materials such as elastomers, gels, and soft biological tissues. In most indentation measurements, residual stress or stretch which can be commonly found in soft materials is ignored. In this article, we aim to quantitatively understand the effects of prestretches of an elastomer on its indentation measurement. Based on surface Green's function, we analytically derive the relationship between indentation force and indentation depth for a prestretched Neo-Hookean solid with a flat-ended cylindrical indenter as well as a spherical indenter. In addition, for a non-equal biaxially stretched elastomer, we obtain the equation determining the eccentricity of the elliptical contacting area between a spherical indenter and the elastomer. Our results clearly demonstrate that the effects of prestretches of an elastomer on its indentation measurement can be significant. To validate our analytical results, we further conduct correspondent finite element simulations of indentation of prestretched elastomers. The numerical results agree well with our analytical predictions.

Elastomers in mud motors for oil field applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hendrik, J.

1997-08-01

Mud motors, the most frequently used downhole drilling motors in modern drilling systems, are described in their application and function. The elastomeric liner in a mud motor acts as a huge continuous seal. Important properties of elastomers such as chemical resistance, fatigue resistance, mechanical strength, abrasion resistance, bonding to steel and processability are discussed. Advantages and disadvantages of NBR, HNBR, FKM, TFEP, and EPDM elastomers for mud motor applications are briefly described. The importance of drilling fluids and their physical and chemical impact on motor elastomers are described. Drilling fluids are categorized in: oil based-, synthetic-, and water based. Resultsmore » of compatibility tests in the different drilling muds of the presented categories demonstrate the complexity of elastomer development. Elastomers with an equally good performance in all drilling muds are not available. Future developments and improvements are directed towards higher chemical resistance at higher service temperatures. This will be possible only with improved elastomer-to-metal bonding, increased mechanical and better dynamic properties.« less

Magnetic properties of hybrid elastomers with magnetically hard fillers: rotation of particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stepanov, G. V.; Borin, D. Yu; Bakhtiiarov, A. V.; Storozhenko, P. A.

2017-03-01

Hybrid magnetic elastomers belonging to the family of magnetorheological elastomers contain magnetically hard components and are of the utmost interest for the development of semiactive and active damping devices as well as actuators and sensors. The processes of magnetizing of such elastomers are accompanied by structural rearrangements inside the material. When magnetized, the elastomer gains its own magnetic moment resulting in changes of its magneto-mechanical properties, which remain permanent, even in the absence of external magnetic fields. Influenced by the magnetic field, magnetized particles move inside the matrix forming chain-like structures. In addition, the magnetically hard particles can rotate to align their magnetic moments with the new direction of the external field. Such an elastomer cannot be demagnetized by the application of a reverse field.

Reduction of Noise from Disc Brake Systems Using Composite Friction Materials Containing Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masoomi, Mohsen; Katbab, Ali Asghar; Nazockdast, Hossein

2006-09-01

Attempts have been made for the first time to prepare a friction material with the characteristic of thermal sensitive modulus, by the inclusion of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) as viscoelastic polymeric materials into the formulation in order to the increase the damping behavior of the cured friction material. Styrene butadiene styrene (SBS), styrene ethylene butylene styrene (SEBS) and nitrile rubber/polyvinyl chloride (NBR/PVC) blend system were used as TPE materials. In order to evaluate the viscoelastic parameters such as loss factor (tan δ) and storage modulus (E‧) for the friction material, dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) were used. Natural frequencies and mode shapes of friction material and brake disc were determined by modal analysis. However, NBR/PVC and SEBS were found to be much more effective in damping behavior. The results from this comparative study suggest that the damping characteristics of commercial friction materials can be strongly affected by the TPE ingredients. This investigation also confirmed that the specimens with high TPE content had low noise propensity.

Co-extruded mechanically tunable multilayer elastomer laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crescimanno, Michael; Mao, Guilin; Andrews, James; Singer, Kenneth; Baer, Eric; Hiltner, Anne; Song, Hyunmin; Shakya, Bijayandra

2011-04-01

We have fabricated and studied mechanically tunable elastomer dye lasers constructed in large area sheets by a single-step layer-multiplying co-extrusion process. The laser films consist of a central dye-doped (Rhodamine-6G) elastomer layer between two 128-layer distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) films comprised of alternating elastomer layers with different refractive indices. The central gain layer is formed by folding the coextruded DBR film to enclose a dye-doped skin layer. By mechanically stretching the elastomer laser film from 0% to 19%, a tunable miniature laser source was obtained with ˜50 nm continuous tunability from red to green.

Using AFM Force Curves to Explore Properties of Elastomers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ferguson, Megan A.; Kozlowski, Joseph J.

2013-01-01

polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers. Force curves are used to quantify the stiffness of elastomers prepared with different base-to-curing agent ratios. Trends in observed spring constants of the…

Synthesis of perfluoroalkylether triazine elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosser, R. W.; Korus, R. A.

1980-01-01

A method of perfluoroalkylether triazine elastomer synthesis is described. To form an elastomer, the resultant polymer is heated in a closed oven at slightly reduced pressures for 1-day periods at 100, 130 and 150 C. A high-molecular-weight perfluoroalkylether triazine elastomer is produced that exhibits thermal and oxidative stability. This material is potentially useful in applications such as high-temperature seals, 'O' rings, and wire enamels.

Asymmetric Dielectric Elastomer Composite Material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, Brian K. (Inventor)

2014-01-01

Embodiments of the invention provide a dielectric elastomer composite material comprising a plurality of elastomer-coated electrodes arranged in an assembly. Embodiments of the invention provide improved force output over prior DEs by producing thinner spacing between electrode surfaces. This is accomplished by coating electrodes directly with uncured elastomer in liquid form and then assembling a finished component (which may be termed an actuator) from coated electrode components.

Surface Coating of Gypsum-Based Molds for Maxillofacial Prosthetic Silicone Elastomeric Material: The Surface Topography.

PubMed

Khalaf, Salah; Ariffin, Zaihan; Husein, Adam; Reza, Fazal

2015-07-01

This study aimed to compare the surface roughness of maxillofacial silicone elastomers fabricated in noncoated and coated gypsum materials. This study was also conducted to characterize the silicone elastomer specimens after surfaces were modified. A gypsum mold was coated with clear acrylic spray. The coated mold was then used to produce modified silicone experimental specimens (n = 35). The surface roughness of the modified silicone elastomers was compared with that of the control specimens, which were prepared by conventional flasking methods (n = 35). An atomic force microscope (AFM) was used for surface roughness measurement of silicone elastomer (unmodified and modified), and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to evaluate the topographic conditions of coated and noncoated gypsum and silicone elastomer specimens (unmodified and modified) groups. After the gypsum molds were characterized, the fabricated silicone elastomers molded on noncoated and coated gypsum materials were evaluated further. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis of gypsum materials (noncoated and coated) and silicone elastomer specimens (unmodified and modified) was performed to evaluate the elemental changes after coating was conducted. Independent t test was used to analyze the differences in the surface roughness of unmodified and modified silicone at a significance level of p < 0.05. Roughness was significantly reduced in the silicone elastomers processed against coated gypsum materials (p < 0.001). The AFM and SEM analysis results showed evident differences in surface smoothness. EDX data further revealed the presence of the desired chemical components on the surface layer of unmodified and modified silicone elastomers. Silicone elastomers with lower surface roughness of maxillofacial prostheses can be obtained simply by coating a gypsum mold. © 2014 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Computational model of deformable lenses actuated by dielectric elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Tongqing; Cai, Shengqiang; Wang, Huiming; Suo, Zhigang

2013-09-01

A recent design of deformable lens mimics the human eye, adjusting its focal length in response to muscle-like actuation. The artificial muscle is a membrane of a dielectric elastomer subject to a voltage. Here, we calculate the coupled and inhomogeneous deformation of the lens and the dielectric elastomer actuator by formulating a nonlinear boundary-value problem. We characterize the strain-stiffening elastomer with the Gent model and describe the voltage-induced deformation using the model of ideal dielectric elastomer. The computational predictions agree well with experimental data. We use the model to explore the space of parameters, including the prestretch of the membrane, the volume of the liquid in the lens, and the size of the dielectric elastomer actuator relative to the lens. We examine how various modes of failure limit the minimum radius of curvature.

Computational modeling of electromechanical instabilities in dielectric elastomers (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Harold

2016-04-01

Dielectric elastomers are a class of soft, active materials that have recently gained significant interest due to the fact that they can be electrostatically actuated into undergoing extremely large deformations. An ongoing challenge has been the development of robust and accurate computational models for elastomers, particularly those that can capture electromechanical instabilities that limit the performance of elastomers such as creasing, wrinkling, and snap-through. I discuss in this work a recently developed finite element model for elastomers that is dynamic, nonlinear, and fully electromechanically coupled. The model also significantly alleviates volumetric locking due that arises due to the incompressible nature of the elastomers, and incorporates viscoelasticity within a finite deformation framework. Numerical examples are shown that demonstrate the performance of the proposed method in capturing electromechanical instabilities (snap-through, creasing, cratering, wrinkling) that have been observed experimentally.

Quantification of photoinduced bending of dynamic molecular crystals: from macroscopic strain to kinetic constants and activation energies.

PubMed

Chizhik, Stanislav; Sidelnikov, Anatoly; Zakharov, Boris; Naumov, Panče; Boldyreva, Elena

2018-02-28

Photomechanically reconfigurable elastic single crystals are the key elements for contactless, timely controllable and spatially resolved transduction of light into work from the nanoscale to the macroscale. The deformation in such single-crystal actuators is observed and usually attributed to anisotropy in their structure induced by the external stimulus. Yet, the actual intrinsic and external factors that affect the mechanical response remain poorly understood, and the lack of rigorous models stands as the main impediment towards benchmarking of these materials against each other and with much better developed soft actuators based on polymers, liquid crystals and elastomers. Here, experimental approaches for precise measurement of macroscopic strain in a single crystal bent by means of a solid-state transformation induced by light are developed and used to extract the related temperature-dependent kinetic parameters. The experimental results are compared against an overarching mathematical model based on the combined consideration of light transport, chemical transformation and elastic deformation that does not require fitting of any empirical information. It is demonstrated that for a thermally reversible photoreactive bending crystal, the kinetic constants of the forward (photochemical) reaction and the reverse (thermal) reaction, as well as their temperature dependence, can be extracted with high accuracy. The improved kinematic model of crystal bending takes into account the feedback effect, which is often neglected but becomes increasingly important at the late stages of the photochemical reaction in a single crystal. The results provide the most rigorous and exact mathematical description of photoinduced bending of a single crystal to date.

Synthesis and Characterization of Ionically Crosslinked Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-12

SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: In this research poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) elastomers were investigated as model systems to study the thermomechanical...subject to any oenalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number. PLEASE DO...Ionically Crosslinked Elastomers Report Title In this research poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) elastomers were investigated as model systems to study the

Toughening modification of poly(butylene terephthalate)/poly(ethylene terephthalate) blends by an epoxy-functionalized elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Weizhou; Wang, Kai; Yan, Wei; Guo, Weihong

2017-10-01

New toughened poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT)/poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) (40/60 wt%) blends were obtained by melting with Glycidyl methacrylate grafted poly(ethylene octane) copolymer (POE-g-GMA), varying the POE-g-GMA content up to 20 wt%, in a twin-screw extruder, followed by injection molding. The influence of POE-g-GMA on the properties of the PBT/PET blends was investigated by mechanical testing, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis, gel fractions analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). The mechanical testing results indicated that the incorporation of POE-g-GMA led to increases in the notched impact strength and decreases in the tensile strength, flexural strength, and flexural modulus. When POE-g-GMA content reached 20 wt%, the notched impact strength (8.0 kJ m-2) was achieved for the PBT/PET/POE-g-GMA blends. FT-IR results proved that some PBT/PET/POE-g-GMA copolymers were produced, which improved the compatibility between POE-g-GMA and the PBT/PET matrix. The extent of crosslinking was observed by gel fraction measurements. DMA results further testified chain-extending and micro-crosslink reactions occurred between POE-g-GMA and PBT/PET blends. In addition, the reactions induced by POE-g-GMA affected the crystallization behavior of PBT/PET blends obviously, as observed from DSC results. By means of SEM observation of the impact fracture surface morphology, and the discussion of the micro-crosslink reaction process between the epoxide-containing elastomers and PBT/PET matrix, the toughening mechanism was proposed to be taken into account the shear yielding of PBT/PET matrix and cavitation of elastomer particles.

Replication of the nano-scale mold fabricated with focused ion beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, J. X.; Chan-Park, M. B.; Xie, D. Z.; Ngoi, Bryan K. A.

2004-12-01

Silicon mold fabricated with Focused Ion Beam lithography (FIB) was used to make silicone elastomer molds. The silicon mold is composed of lattice of holes which the diameter and depth are about 200 nm and 60 nm, respectively. The silicone elastomer material was then used to replicate slavery mold. Our study show the replication process with the elastomer mold had been performed successfully and the diameter of humps on the elastomer mold is near to that of holes on the master mold. But the height of humps in the elastomer mold is only 42 nm and it is different from the depth of holes in the master mold.

Adjustable Membrane Mirrors Incorporating G-Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, Zensheu; Morgan, Rhonda M.; Xu, Tian-Bing; Su, Ji; Hishinuma, Yoshikazu; Yang, Eui-Hyeok

2008-01-01

Lightweight, flexible, large-aperture mirrors of a type being developed for use in outer space have unimorph structures that enable precise adjustment of their surface figures. A mirror of this type includes a reflective membrane layer bonded with an electrostrictive grafted elastomer (G-elastomer) layer, plus electrodes suitably positioned with respect to these layers. By virtue of the electrostrictive effect, an electric field applied to the G-elastomer membrane induces a strain along the membrane and thus causes a deflection of the mirror surface. Utilizing this effect, the mirror surface figure can be adjusted locally by individually addressing pairs of electrodes. G-elastomers, which were developed at NASA Langley Research Center, were chosen for this development in preference to other electroactive polymers partly because they offer superior electromechanical performance. Whereas other electroactive polymers offer, variously, large strains with low moduli of elasticity or small strains with high moduli of elasticity, G-elastomers offer both large strains (as large as 4 percent) and high moduli of elasticity (about 580 MPa). In addition, G-elastomer layers can be made by standard melt pressing or room-temperature solution casting.

Starch-based bio-elastomers functionalized with red beetroot natural antioxidant.

PubMed

Tran, Thi Nga; Athanassiou, Athanassia; Basit, Abdul; Bayer, Ilker S

2017-02-01

Red beetroot (RB) powder was incorporated into starch-based bio-elastomers to obtain flexible biocomposites with tunable antioxidant properties. Starch granules within the bio-elastomers affected the release of the antioxidant molecule betanin in the RB powder. The bio-elastomers were hydrophobic and resisted dissolution in water, hence the release of betanin was due to diffusion rather than polymer matrix disintegration. Hydrophobicity was maintained even after water immersion. Released betanin demonstrated highly efficient antioxidant scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical cation (ABTS(+)). RB powder was also found to increase the Young's modulus of the bio-elastomers without compromising their elongation ability. Infrared spectral analysis indicated weak interactions through hydrogen bonding among starch granules, RB powder and PDMS polymer within the bio-elastomers. Hence, as a simple but intelligent biomaterial consisting of mainly edible starch and RB powder the present bio-elastomers can be used in active packaging for a variety of pharmaceutical, medical, and food applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electrostrictive Graft Elastomers and Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Su, J.; Harrison, J. S.; St.Clair, T. L.; Bar-Cohen, Y.; Leary, S.

1999-01-01

Efficient actuators that are lightweight, high performance and compact are needed to support telerobotic requirements for future NASA missions. In this work, we present a new class of electromechanically active polymers that can potentially be used as actuators to meet many NASA needs. The materials are graft elastomers that offer high strain under an applied electric field. Due to its higher mechanical modulus, this elastomer also has a higher strain energy density as compared to previously reported electrostrictive polyurethane elastomers. The dielectric, mechanical and electromechanical properties of this new electrostrictive elastomer have been studied as a function of temperature and frequency. Combined with structural analysis using x-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry on the new elastomer, structure-property interrelationship and mechanisms of the electric field induced strain in the graft elastomer have also been investigated. This electroactive polymer (EAP) has demonstrated high actuation strain and high mechanical energy density. The combination of these properties with its tailorable molecular composition and excellent processability makes it attractive for a variety of actuation tasks. The experimental results and applications will be presented.

Toward a predictive model for the failure of elastomer seals.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molinari, Nicola; Khawaja, Musab; Sutton, Adrian; Mostofi, Arash; Baker Hughes Collaboration

Nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) and hydrogenated-NBR (HNBR) are widely used elastomers, especially as seals in oil and gas industry. During exposure to the extreme temperatures and pressures typical of well-hole conditions, ingress of gases causes degradation of performance, including mechanical failure. Using computer simulations, we investigate this problem at two different length- and time-scales. First, starting with our model of NBR based on the OPLS all-atom force-field, we develop a chemically-inspired description of HNBR, where C=C double bonds are saturated with either hydrogen or intramolecular cross-links, mimicking the hydrogenation of NBR to form HNBR. We validate against trends for the mass density and glass transition temperature for HNBR as a function of cross-link density, and for NBR as a function of the fraction of acrylonitrile in the copolymer. Second, a coarse-grained approach is taken in order to study mechanical behaviour and to overcome the length- and time-scale limitations inherent to the all-atom model. The effect of nanoparticle fillers added to the elastomer matrix is investigated. Our initial focus is on understanding the mechanical properties at the elevated temperatures and pressures experienced in well-hole conditions. Baker Hughes.

Evaluation of the performance of three elastomers for non-lethal projectile applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thota, N.; Epaarachchi, J.; Lau, K. T.

2015-09-01

Less lethal kinetic ammunitions with soft noses such as eXact iMpact 1006, National Sports Spartan and B&T have been commonly used by military and law enforcement officers in the situations where lethal force is not warranted. In order to explore new materials to be used as nose in such ammunitions, a scholastic study using finite element simulations has been carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of two rubber like elastomers and a polyolefinic foam (low density, highly compressible, stiff and closed cell type of thermos plastic elastomer). State-of-the art thorax surrogate MTHOTA has been employed for the evaluation of blunt thoracic trauma. Force-rigid wall method was employed for the evaluation of head damage curves for each material. XM 1006 has been used as the benchmark projectile for the purpose of comparison. Both blunt thoracic trauma and head damage criterion point of view, both rubbers (R1 and R2) have yielded high values of VCmax and peak impact force. Polyolefinic foam (F1) considered in the study has yielded very promising VCmax values and very less peak impact force when compared with those of bench mark projectile XM 1006.

Electrically tunable soft solid lens inspired by reptile and bird accommodation.

PubMed

Pieroni, Michael; Lagomarsini, Clara; De Rossi, Danilo; Carpi, Federico

2016-10-26

Electrically tunable lenses are conceived as deformable adaptive optical components able to change focus without motor-controlled translations of stiff lenses. In order to achieve large tuning ranges, large deformations are needed. This requires new technologies for the actuation of highly stretchable lenses. This paper presents a configuration to obtain compact tunable lenses entirely made of soft solid matter (elastomers). This was achieved by combining the advantages of dielectric elastomer actuation (DEA) with a design inspired by the accommodation of reptiles and birds. An annular DEA was used to radially deform a central solid-body lens. Using an acrylic elastomer membrane, a silicone lens and a simple fabrication method, we assembled a tunable lens capable of focal length variations up to 55%, driven by an actuator four times larger than the lens. As compared to DEA-based liquid lenses, the novel architecture halves the required driving voltages, simplifies the fabrication process and allows for a higher versatility in design. These new lenses might find application in systems requiring large variations of focus with low power consumption, silent operation, low weight, shock tolerance, minimized axial encumbrance and minimized changes of performance against vibrations and variations in temperature.

Holographic Structuring of Elastomer Actuator: First True Monolithic Tunable Elastomer Optics.

PubMed

Ryabchun, Alexander; Kollosche, Matthias; Wegener, Michael; Sakhno, Oksana

2016-12-01

Volume diffraction gratings (VDGs) are inscribed selectively by diffusive introduction of benzophenone and subsequent UV-holographic structuring into an electroactive dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA), to afford a continuous voltage-controlled grating shift of 17%. The internal stress coupling of DEA and optical domain allows for a new generation of true monolithic tunable elastomer optics with voltage controlled properties. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Swellable elastomers under constraint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lou, Yucun; Robisson, Agathe; Cai, Shengqiang; Suo, Zhigang

2012-08-01

Swellable elastomers are widely used in the oilfield to seal the flow of downhole fluids. For example, when a crack appears in self-healing cement, the liquid in the surroundings flows into the crack and permeates into the cement, causing small particles of elastomers in the cement to swell, resulting in the blocking of the flow. Elastomers are also used as large components in swellable packers, which can swell and seal zones in the borehole. In these applications, the elastomers swell against the constraint of stiff materials, such as cement, metal, and rock. The pressure generated by the elastomer against the confinement is a key factor that affects the quality of the sealing. This work develops a systematic approach to predict the magnitude of the pressure in such components. Experiments are carried out to determine the stress-stretch curve, free swelling ratio, and confining pressure. The data are interpreted in terms of a modified Flory-Rehner model.

Localised strain sensing of dielectric elastomers in a stretchable soft-touch musical keyboard

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Daniel; Tairych, Andreas; Anderson, Iain A.

2015-04-01

We present a new sensing method that can measure the strain at different locations in a dielectric elastomer. The method uses multiple sensing frequencies to target different regions of the same dielectric elastomer to simultaneously detect position and pressure using only a single pair of connections. The dielectric elastomer is modelled as an RC transmission line and its internal voltage and current distribution used to determine localised capacitance changes resulting from contact and pressure. This sensing method greatly simplifies high degree of freedom systems and does not require any modifications to the dielectric elastomer or sensing hardware. It is demonstrated on a multi-touch musical keyboard made from a single low cost carbon-based dielectric elastomer with 4 distinct musical tones mapped along a length of 0.1m. Loudness was controlled by the amount of pressure applied to each of these 4 positions.

Precision-Trimming 2D Inverse-Opal Lattice on Elastomer to Ordered Nanostructures with Variable Size and Morphology.

PubMed

Zhan, Haoran; Chen, Yanqiu; Liu, Yu; Lau, Woonming; Bao, Chao; Li, Minggan; Lu, Yunlong; Mei, Jun; Hui, David

2017-05-23

A low-cost and scalable method is developed for producing large-area elastomer surfaces having ordered nanostructures with a variety of lattice features controllable to nanometer precision. The method adopts the known technique of molding a PDMS precursor film with a close-packed monolayer of monodisperse submicron polystyrene beads on water to form an inverse-opal dimple lattice with the dimple size controlled by the bead selection and the dimple depth by the molding condition. The subsequent novel precision engineering of the inverse-opal lattice comprises trimming the PDMS precursor by a combination of polymer curing temperature/time and polymer dissolution parameters. The resultant ordered surface nanostructures, fabricated with an increasing degree of trimming, include (a) submicron hemispherical dimples with nanothin interdimple rims and walls; (b) nanocones with variable degrees of tip-sharpness by trimming off the top part of the nanothin interdimple walls; and (c) soup-plate-like submicron shallow dimples with interdimple rims and walls by anisotropically trimming off the nanocones and forming close-packed shallow dimples. As exemplars of industrial relevance of these lattice features, tunable Young's modulus and wettability are demonstrated.

Sustainable Elastomers from Renewable Biomass.

PubMed

Wang, Zhongkai; Yuan, Liang; Tang, Chuanbing

2017-07-18

Sustainable elastomers have undergone explosive growth in recent years, partly due to the resurgence of biobased materials prepared from renewable natural resources. However, mounting challenges still prevail: How can the chemical compositions and macromolecular architectures of sustainable polymers be controlled and broadened? How can their processability and recyclability be enabled? How can they compete with petroleum-based counterparts in both cost and performance? Molecular-biomass-derived polymers, such as polymyrcene, polymenthide, and poly(ε-decalactone), have been employed for constructing thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs). Plant oils are widely used for fabricating thermoset elastomers. We use abundant biomass, such as plant oils, cellulose, rosin acids, and lignin, to develop elastomers covering a wide range of structure-property relationships in the hope of delivering better performance. In this Account, recent progress in preparing monomers and TPEs from biomass is first reviewed. ABA triblock copolymer TPEs were obtained with a soft middle block containing a soybean-oil-based monomer and hard outer blocks containing styrene. In addition, a combination of biobased monomers from rosin acids and soybean oil was formulated to prepare triblock copolymer TPEs. Together with the above-mentioned approaches based on block copolymers, multigraft copolymers with a soft backbone and rigid side chains are recognized as the first-generation and second-generation TPEs, respectively. It has been recently demonstrated that multigraft copolymers with a rigid backbone and elastic side chains can also be used as a novel architecture of TPEs. Natural polymers, such as cellulose and lignin, are utilized as a stiff, macromolecular backbone. Cellulose/lignin graft copolymers with side chains containing a copolymer of methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate exhibited excellent elastic properties. Cellulose graft copolymers with biomass-derived polymers as side chains were further explored to enhance the overall sustainability. Isoprene polymers were grafted from a cellulosic backbone to afford Cell-g-polyisoprene copolymers. Via cross-linking of these graft copolymers, human-skin-mimic elastomers and high resilient elastomers with a well-defined network structure were achieved. The mechanical properties of these resilient elastomers could be finely controlled by tuning the cellulose content. As isoprene can be produced by engineering of microorganisms, these elastomers could be a renewable alternative to petroleum products. In summary, triblock copolymer and graft copolymer TPEs with biomass components, skin-mimic elastomers, high resilient biobased elastomers, and engineering of macromolecular architectures for elastomers are discussed. These approaches and design provide us knowledge on the potential to make sustainable elastomers for various applications to compete with petroleum-based counterparts.

Studies on photonic crystal composites: Fabrication and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ying, Yurong

There is considerable interest in developing three-dimensional ordered dielectric structures because of their unique optical property, the photonic band gap. A material containing this photonic band gap can be used to control the propagation of electromagnetic waves. This characteristic can be utilized in fabricating a number of diffractive optical devices. A crystalline colloidal array (CCA) is one such three-dimensional ordered dielectric structure, formed through the self-assembly of monodispersed, surface-charged colloidal particles when they are dispersed in a polar liquid medium. Previous work has demonstrated that monodispersed, negatively charged polystyrene spheres can self-assemble into a face-centered cubic (fcc) structure when they are dispersed in a polar medium. This fee lattice can be locked in a hydrogel-based polymeric network and then encapsulated into a water-free elastomer network. These photonic crystal hydrogel films exhibit a solvatochromic effect. A method has been developed for creating patterns in photonic crystal hydrogel films based on this solvatochromic effect via a direct photopolymerization process. The multicolor pattern generation induced by this method resulted in macro- and micropatterns with a large color contrast, i.e. the difference between the patterned area and the background is greater than 150 nm. Unfortunately, CCA systems often exhibit intrinsic and extrinsic defects. To reduce the extrinsic defects incurred during the film fabrication process, a modified lithographic technique was developed to fabricate a high quality, large area, ca. 1 cm2 and a robust, water-free photonic band gap composite film having a thickness of 35 mum. The optical properties of these composite films change in response to their mechanical deformation. These robust films can change shape and recover after stretching or compression without destroying the order of the crystal. These thin films have a high sensitivity to a pressure variation when they are employed as a window in a pressure cell. In total, a 212 nm stop band shift was achieved as the pressure changed from 0 psi to 2.9 psi. Utilizing its mechanochromic response, this thin PBG composite film also has been employed as part of a resonant cavity to develop a thin film organic laser with a tunable emission wavelength of 32 nm. Since the refractive-index contrast between the polystyrene spheres and the polymeric matrix is relatively low, only a narrow stop band can be observed. To increase the contrast, CCA formed using organic dye doped polystyrene spheres and a crystalline colloidal array templated inverse opal was successfully synthesized.

High-Aspect-Ratio Ridge Structures Induced by Plastic Deformation as a Novel Microfabrication Technique.

PubMed

Takei, Atsushi; Jin, Lihua; Fujita, Hiroyuki; Takei, A; Fujita, H; Jin, Lihua

2016-09-14

Wrinkles on thin film/elastomer bilayer systems provide functional surfaces. The aspect ratio of these wrinkles is critical to their functionality. Much effort has been dedicated to creating high-aspect-ratio structures on the surface of bilayer systems. A highly prestretched elastomer attached to a thin film has recently been shown to form a high-aspect-ratio structure, called a ridge structure, due to a large strain induced in the elastomer. However, the prestretch requirements of the elastomer during thin film attachment are not compatible with conventional thin film deposition methods, such as spin coating, dip coating, and chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Thus, the fabrication method is complex, and ridge structure formation is limited to planar surfaces. This paper presents a new and simple method for constructing ridge structures on a nonplanar surface using a plastic thin film/elastomer bilayer system. A plastic thin film is attached to a stress-free elastomer, and the resulting bilayer system is highly stretched one- or two-dimensionally. Upon the release of the stretch load, the deformation of the elastomer is reversible, while the plastically deformed thin film stays elongated. The combination of the length mismatch and the large strain induced in the elastomer generates ridge structures. The morphology of the plastic thin film/elastomer bilayer system is experimentally studied by varying the physical parameters, and the functionality and the applicability to a nonplanar surface are demonstrated. Finally, we simulate the effect of plasticity on morphology. This study presents a new technique for generating microscale high-aspect-ratio structures and its potential for functional surfaces.

Electrostrictive Graft Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Su, Ji (Inventor); Harrison, Joycelyn S. (Inventor); St.Clair, Terry L. (Inventor)

2003-01-01

An electrostrictive graft elastomer has a backbone molecule which is a non-crystallizable, flexible macromolecular chain and a grafted polymer forming polar graft moieties with backbone molecules. The polar graft moieties have been rotated by an applied electric field, e.g., into substantial polar alignment. The rotation is sustained until the electric field is removed. In another embodiment, a process for producing strain in an elastomer includes: (a) providing a graft elastomer having a backbone molecule which is a non-crystallizable, flexible macromolecular chain and a grafted polymer forming polar graft moieties with backbone molecules; and (b) applying an electric field to the graft elastomer to rotate the polar graft moieties, e.g., into substantial polar alignment.

Fiber-reinforced dielectric elastomer laminates with integrated function of actuating and sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Tiefeng; Xie, Yuhan; Li, Chi; Yang, Xuxu; Jin, Yongbin; Liu, Junjie; Huang, Xiaoqiang

2015-04-01

The natural limbs of animals and insects integrate muscles, skins and neurons, providing both the actuating and sensing functions simultaneously. Inspired by the natural structure, we present a novel structure with integrated function of actuating and sensing with dielectric elastomer (DE) laminates. The structure can deform when subjected to high voltage loading and generate corresponding output signal in return. We investigate the basic physical phenomenon of dielectric elastomer experimentally. It is noted that when applying high voltage, the actuating dielectric elastomer membrane deforms and the sensing dielectric elastomer membrane changes the capacitance in return. Based on the concept, finite element method (FEM) simulation has been conducted to further investigate the electromechanical behavior of the structure.

Effects of Carbon Black and the Presence of Static Mechanical Strain on the Swelling of Elastomers in Solvent

PubMed Central

Ch’ng, Shiau Ying; Andriyana, Andri; Tee, Yun Lu; Verron, Erwan

2015-01-01

The effect of carbon black on the mechanical properties of elastomers is of great interest, because the filler is one of principal ingredients for the manufacturing of rubber products. While fillers can be used to enhance the properties of elastomers, including stress-free swelling resistance in solvent, it is widely known that the introduction of fillers yields significant inelastic responses of elastomers under cyclic mechanical loading, such as stress-softening, hysteresis and permanent set. When a filled elastomer is under mechanical deformation, the filler acts as a strain amplifier in the rubber matrix. Since the matrix local strain has a profound effect on the material’s ability to absorb solvent, the study of the effect of carbon black content on the swelling characteristics of elastomeric components exposed to solvent in the presence of mechanical deformation is a prerequisite for durability analysis. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of carbon black content on the swelling of elastomers in solvent in the presence of static mechanical strains: simple extension and simple torsion. Three different types of elastomers are considered: unfilled, filled with 33 phr (parts per hundred) and 66 phr of carbon black. The peculiar role of carbon black on the swelling characteristics of elastomers in solvent in the presence of mechanical strain is explored. PMID:28787977

Electromechanical performance analysis of inflated dielectric elastomer membrane for micro pump applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saini, Abhishek; Ahmad, Dilshad; Patra, Karali

2016-04-01

Dielectric elastomers have received a great deal of attention recently as potential materials for many new types of sensors, actuators and future energy generators. When subjected to high electric field, dielectric elastomer membrane sandwiched between compliant electrodes undergoes large deformation with a fast response speed. Moreover, dielectric elastomers have high specific energy density, toughness, flexibility and shape processability. Therefore, dielectric elastomer membranes have gained importance to be applied as micro pumps for microfluidics and biomedical applications. This work intends to extend the electromechanical performance analysis of inflated dielectric elastomer membranes to be applied as micro pumps. Mechanical burst test and cyclic tests were performed to investigate the mechanical breakdown and hysteresis loss of the dielectric membrane, respectively. Varying high electric field was applied on the inflated membrane under different static pressure to determine the electromechanical behavior and nonplanar actuation of the membrane. These tests were repeated for membranes with different pre-stretch values. Results show that pre-stretching improves the electromechanical performance of the inflated membrane. The present work will help to select suitable parameters for designing micro pumps using dielectric elastomer membrane. However this material lacks durability in operation.This issue also needs to be investigated further for realizing practical micro pumps.

Preparation and demonstration of poly(dopamine)-triggered attapulgite-anchored polyurethane as a high-performance rod-like elastomer to reinforce soy protein-isolated composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Shujun; Wen, Yingying; Wang, Zhong; Kang, Haijiao; Li, Jianzhang; Zhang, Shifeng; Ji, Yong

2018-06-01

Nanophase modification is an effective path to improve composite properties, however, it remains a great challenge to increase the mechanical strength of the modified materials without sacrificing elongation and toughness. This study presents a novel and efficient design for interface anchoring of a waterborne polyurethane (WPU) elastomer with attapulgite (ATP) triggered by poly(dopamine) (PDA) formation due to self-polymerization of the dopamine moieties. The WPU-PDA-ATP (WDA) rod-like elastomer served as an active enhancer for a soy protein isolate (SPI)-based composite to facilitate multiple interactions between SPI and the elastomer. As expected, the PDA layer was coated onto ATP, inducing the nanofiller to successfully anchor onto the WPU elastomer, as confirmed by solid-state 13C NMR, XPS, and ATR-FTIR results. Compared with the control SPI-based film, the tensile strength and toughness increased by 145.6% and 118.3% respectively by introducing WDA rod-like elastomer. The water resistance and thermal stability of the prepared SPI composites were also favorable. The proposed approach represents an efficient way to utilize high-performance elastomer in biobased materials to concurrently enhance strength and toughness.

Operation tools with dielectric elastomer pressure sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Böse, Holger; Müller, Dominik; Ehrlich, Johannes

2017-04-01

New sensors based on dielectric elastomers have recently been shown to exhibit high sensitivity for compression loads. The basic design of these sensors exhibits two profiled surfaces coated with electrode layers between which an elastomer film with the counter-electrode is confined. All components of the sensor are prepared with silicone whose stiffness can be varied in a wide range. Depending on the details of the sensor design, various effects contribute to the enhancement of the capacitance. The intermediate elastomer film is stretched upon compression, the elastomer profiles are deformed and the electrode layers on the elastomer profiles and in the elastomer film approach each other. Beside the detection of pressure, such sensors can also be used for operation tools in human-machine interfaces. To demonstrate this potential, a touch pad with six pressure-sensitive fields is presented. The corresponding sensors integrated in the touch fields detect the exerted forces of the finger, show them on a display and control the brightness of some LEDs. As a second example, the integration of sensor-based control fields on an automotive steering wheel is shown. Finally, the sensors can also be used in fabrics to control arbitrary functions of wearable electronic devices.

Development of procedures for calculating stiffness and damping of elastomers in engineering applications, part 7

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rieger, A.; Zorzi, E.

1980-01-01

An elastomer shear damper was designed, tested, and compared with the performance of the T 55 power turbine supported on the production engine roller bearing support. The Viton 70 shear damper was designed so that the elastomer damper could be interchanged with the production T 55 power turbine roller bearing support. The results show that the elastomer sheer dampener permitted stable operation of the power turbine to the maximum operating speed of 16,000 rpm.

Slip resistance of industrial floor surfaces: development of an elastomer suited to in-situ measurement.

PubMed

Leclercq, S; Saulnier, H

2001-01-01

Slips contribute to 12% of occupational accidents. A slip resistant floor is a mean to prevent slipping accidents occurring in workshops. Floor slip resistance is often evaluated by measuring a friction index, proportional to the force opposing slipping of a reference elastomer on the floor surface under test. When implementing a portable appliance, slip resistance measurements carried out on lubricated floors were not stabilized. The authors advanced the hypothesis of oil impregnating the elastomer. A new elastomer suited to in-situ measurement has been developed to achieve stable measuring conditions. This study highlights the fact that the nature and characteristics of a reference elastomer must be specified when slip resistance measurements are carried out.

Giant voltage-induced deformation of a dielectric elastomer under a constant pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godaba, Hareesh; Foo, Choon Chiang; Zhang, Zhi Qian; Khoo, Boo Cheong; Zhu, Jian

2014-09-01

Dielectric elastomer actuators coupled with liquid have recently been developed as soft pumps, soft lenses, Braille displays, etc. In this paper, we investigate the performance of a dielectric elastomer actuator, which is coupled with water. The experiments demonstrate that the membrane of a dielectric elastomer can achieve a giant voltage-induced area strain of 1165%, when subject to a constant pressure. Both theory and experiment show that the pressure plays an important role in determining the electromechanical behaviour. The experiments also suggest that the dielectric elastomer actuators, when coupled with liquid, may suffer mechanical instability and collapse after a large amount of liquid is enclosed by the membrane. This failure mode needs to be taken into account in designing soft actuators.

Control of elasticity in cast elastomeric shock/vibration isolators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Owens, L.; Bright, C.

1974-01-01

Elasticity is determined by isolators physical dimensions and by type of elastomer used. Once elastomer is selected and cast between two concentric tubes of device, isolator elasticity will remain fixed. Isolators having same dimensions can be built to different elasticity requirements using same elastomer.

Elastomer actuators: systematic improvement in properties by use of composite materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molberg, Martin; Leterrier, Yves; Plummer, Christopher J. G.; Löwe, Christiane; Opris, Dorina M.; Clemens, Frank; Månson, Jan-Anders E.

2010-04-01

Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) have attracted increasing attention over the last few years owing to their outstanding properties, e.g. their large actuation strains, high energy density, and pliability, which have opened up a wide spectrum of potential applications in fields ranging from microengineering to medical prosthetics. There is consequently a huge demand for new elastomer materials with improved properties to enhance the performance of DEAs and to overcome the limitations associated with currently available materials, such as the need for high activation voltages and the poor long-term stability. The electrostatic pressure that activates dielectric elastomers can be increased by higher permittivity of the elastomer and thus may lead to lower activation voltages. This has led us to consider composite elastomeric dielectrics based on thermoplastic elastomers or PDMS, and conductive polyaniline or ceramic (soft doped PZT) powder fillers. The potential of such materials and strategies to counter the adverse effects of increased conductivity and elastic modulus are discussed.

Performance of Subscale Docking Seals Under Simulated Temperature Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Ian M.; Daniels, Christopher C.

2008-01-01

A universal docking system is being developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to support future space exploration missions to low Earth orbit (LEO), to the moon, and to Mars. The candidate docking seals for the system are a composite design consisting of elastomer seal bulbs molded into the front and rear sides of a metal ring. The test specimens were subscale seals with two different elastomer cross-sections and a 12-in. outside diameter. The seal assemblies were mated in elastomer seal-on-metal plate and elastomer seal-on-elastomer seal configurations. The seals were manufactured from S0383-70 silicone elastomer compound. Nominal and off-nominal joint configurations were examined. Both the compression load required to mate the seals and the leak rate observed were recorded while the assemblies were subjected to representative docking system operating temperatures of -58, 73, and 122 F (-50, 23, and 50 C). Both the loads required to fully compress the seals and their leak rates were directly proportional to the test temperature.

Elastomer mounted rotors - An alternative for smoother running turbomachinery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tecza, J. A.; Jones, S. W.; Smalley, A. J.; Cunningham, R. E.; Darlow, M. S.

1979-01-01

This paper describes the design of elastomeric bearing supports for a rotor built to simulate the power turbine of an advanced gas turbine engine which traverses two bending critical speeds. The elastomer dampers were constructed so as to minimize rotor dynamic response at the critical speeds. Results are presented of unbalance response tests performed with two different elastomer materials. These results showed that the resonances on the elastomer-mounted rotor were well damped for both elastomer materials and showed linear response to the unbalance weights used for response testing. Additional tests were performed using solid steel supports at either end (hand-mounted), which resulted in drastically increased sensitivity and nonlinear response, and with steel supports in one end of the rotor and the elastomer at the other, which yielded results which were between the soft- and hard-mounted cases. It is concluded that elastomeric supports are a viable alternative to other methods of mounting flexible rotors, that damping was well in excess of predictions and that elastomeric supports are tolerant of small rotor misalignments.

21 CFR 177.2400 - Perfluorocarbon cured elastomers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Perfluorocarbon cured elastomers. 177.2400 Section 177.2400 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES... as Components of Articles Intended for Repeated Use § 177.2400 Perfluorocarbon cured elastomers...

21 CFR 177.2400 - Perfluorocarbon cured elastomers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Perfluorocarbon cured elastomers. 177.2400 Section 177.2400 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES... as Components of Articles Intended for Repeated Use § 177.2400 Perfluorocarbon cured elastomers...

Evaluation of elastomers as gasket materials in pneumatic and hydraulic systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bright, C. W.; Lockhart, B. J.

1972-01-01

In the search for superior materials from which to make gaskets for pneumatic and hydraulic systems, promising materials were selected and tested. The testing was conducted in two phases. Those materials that passed the tests of Phase 1 were tested in Phase 2, and categorized in the order of preference.

A small biomimetic quadruped robot driven by multistacked dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Canh Toan; Phung, Hoa; Dat Nguyen, Tien; Lee, Choonghan; Kim, Uikyum; Lee, Donghyouk; Moon, Hyungpil; Koo, Jachoon; Nam, Jae-do; Ryeol Choi, Hyouk

2014-06-01

A kind of dielectric elastomer (DE) material, called ‘synthetic elastomer’, has been developed based on acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) to be used as a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA). By stacking single layers of synthetic elastomer, a linear actuator, called a multistacked actuator, is produced, and used by mechatronic and robotic systems to generate linear motion. In this paper, we demonstrate the application of the multistacked dielectric elastomer actuator in a biomimetic legged robot. A miniature robot driven by a biomimetic actuation system with four 2-DOF (two-degree-of-freedom) legged mechanisms is realized. Based on the experimental results, we evaluate the performance of the proposed robot and validate the feasibility of the multistacked actuator in a locomotion system as a replacement for conventional actuators.

Development of procedures for calculating stiffness and damping properties of elastomers in engineering applications. Part 4: Testing of elastomers under a rotating load. [resonance testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Darlow, M. S.; Smalley, A. J.

1977-01-01

A test rig designed to measure stiffness and damping of elastomer cartridges under a rotating load excitation is described. The test rig employs rotating unbalance in a rotor which runs to 60,000 RPM as the excitation mechanism. A variable resonant mass is supported on elastomer elements and the dynamic characteristics are determined from measurements of input and output acceleration. Five different cartridges are considered: three of these are buttons cartridges having buttons located in pairs, with 120 between each pair. Two of the cartridges consist of 360 elastomer rings with rectangular cross-sections. Dynamic stiffness and damping are measured for each cartridge and compared with predictions at different frequencies and different strains.

Comparison of Adhesion and Retention Forces for Two Candidate Docking Seal Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartzler, Brad D.; Panickar, Marta B.; Wasowski, Janice L.; Daniels, Christopher C.

2011-01-01

To successfully mate two pressurized vehicles or structures in space, advanced seals are required at the interface to prevent the loss of breathable air to the vacuum of space. A critical part of the development testing of candidate seal designs was a verification of the integrity of the retaining mechanism that holds the silicone seal component to the structure. Failure to retain the elastomer seal during flight could liberate seal material in the event of high adhesive loads during undocking. This work presents an investigation of the force required to separate the elastomer from its metal counter-face surface during simulated undocking as well as a comparison to that force which was necessary to destructively remove the elastomer from its retaining device. Two silicone elastomers, Wacker 007-49524 and Esterline ELASA-401, were evaluated. During the course of the investigation, modifications were made to the retaining devices to determine if the modifications improved the force needed to destructively remove the seal. The tests were completed at the expected operating temperatures of -50, +23, and +75 C. Under the conditions investigated, the comparison indicated that the adhesion between the elastomer and the metal counter-face was significantly less than the force needed to forcibly remove the elastomer seal from its retainer, and no failure would be expected.

Modeling and control of a dielectric elastomer actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Ujjaval; Gu, Guo-Ying; Zhu, Jian

2016-04-01

The emerging field of soft robotics offers the prospect of applying soft actuators as artificial muscles in the robots, replacing traditional actuators based on hard materials, such as electric motors, piezoceramic actuators, etc. Dielectric elastomers are one class of soft actuators, which can deform in response to voltage and can resemble biological muscles in the aspects of large deformation, high energy density and fast response. Recent research into dielectric elastomers has mainly focused on issues regarding mechanics, physics, material designs and mechanical designs, whereas less importance is given to the control of these soft actuators. Strong nonlinearities due to large deformation and electromechanical coupling make control of the dielectric elastomer actuators challenging. This paper investigates feed-forward control of a dielectric elastomer actuator by using a nonlinear dynamic model. The material and physical parameters in the model are identified by quasi-static and dynamic experiments. A feed-forward controller is developed based on this nonlinear dynamic model. Experimental evidence shows that this controller can control the soft actuator to track the desired trajectories effectively. The present study confirms that dielectric elastomer actuators are capable of being precisely controlled with the nonlinear dynamic model despite the presence of material nonlinearity and electromechanical coupling. It is expected that the reported results can promote the applications of dielectric elastomer actuators to soft robots or biomimetic robots.

Material Evaluation of an Elastomer, Epoxy and Lightweight Concrete Rail Attachment System for Direct Fixation Light Rail Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swarner, Benjamin R.

Sound Transit plans to extend its current light rail system, which runs along the I-5 corridor in Seattle, Washington, across the I-90 Homer Hadley floating bridge as part of a project to connect the major city centers in the region. But, no light rail has ever crossed a floating bridge due to several unique engineering challenges. One of these challenges is attaching the rails to the existing bridge deck without drilling into the bridge pontoons. This research program was developed to test and analyze a direct fixation method that uses lightweight concrete plinths and an elastomer-epoxy system to attach the rails to the bridge deck. The elastomer used was a two-part, pourable elastomer with cork particles intermixed to alter the mechanical properties of the material. A lightweight concrete mixture was analyzed for use in the plinths, and system tests investigated the system response under tensile, compressive and shear loading. The shear response of the system was examined further under varying loading conditions including different surface preparations, elastomer thicknesses, strain-rates and after freeze-thaw conditioning. Experimental data was examined for trends based on these parameters to best characterize the system, and the elastomer was evaluated in the context of modern elastomer research.

Magnetically-tunable rebound property for variable elastic devices made of magnetic elastomer and polyurethane foam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oguro, Tsubasa; Endo, Hiroyuki; Kawai, Mika; Mitsumata, Tetsu

2017-12-01

A device consisting of a phase of magnetic elastomer, a phase of polyurethane foam (PUF), and permanent magnet was fabricated and the stress-strain curves for the two-phase magnetic elastomer were measured by a uniaxial compression measurement. A disk of magnetic elastomer was adhered on a disk of PUF by an adhesive agent. The PUF thickness was varied from 1 mm to 5 mm while the thickness of magnetic elastomers was constant at 5 mm. The stress at a strain of 0.15 for the two-phase magnetic elastomers was evaluated in the absence and in the presence of a magnetic field of 410 mT. The stress at 0 mT decreased remarkably with the PUF thickness due to the deformation of the PUF phase. On the other hand, the stress at 410 mT slightly decreased with the thickness; however, it kept high values even at high thickness. When the PUF thickness was 5 mm, the maximum stress increment with 45 times to the off-field stress was observed. An experiment using ping-pong balls demonstrated that the coefficient of restitution for the two-phase magnetic elastomers can be dramatically altered by the magnetic field.

Study of mechanical and thermal properties of soy flour elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allen, Kendra Alicia

Bio-based plastics are becoming viable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics because they decrease dependence on petroleum derivatives and are more environmentally friendly. Raw materials such as soy flour are widely available, low cost, lightweight, stiffness and have high strength characteristics, but weak interfacial adhesion between the soy flour and the polymer poses a challenge. In this study, soy flour was utilized as a filler in thermoplastic elastomer composites. A surface modification called acetylation was investigated at soy flour concentrations of 10 wt%, 15 wt% and 20 wt%. The mechanical properties of the composites were then compared to that of elastomers without a filler. Chemical characterization of the acetylated soy flour was attempted in order to understand what occurs during the reaction and after completion. In the range of tests, soy flour loadings were observed to be inversely proportional to tensile strength for both the untreated and treated soy flour. However, the acetylated soy flour at 10 wt% concentration performed comparable to that of the neat rubber and resulted in an increase in tensile strength. Unexpectedly, the acetylation reaction increased elongation, which reduced stress within the composite and is believed to increase the adhesion of the soy flour to that of the elastomer. In the nuclear magnetic resonance (SS-NMR), the intensity for the treated soy flour was larger than that of the untreated soy flour for the acetyl groups that were attached to the soy flour, particularly, the carbonyl function group next to the deprotonated oxygen and the methyl group next to the carbonyl. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated that the acetylated soy flour is slightly more thermally stable than the untreated soy flour. The treated soy flour also increased the decomposition temperature of the composite.

Novel electrode-elastomer combinations for improved performance and application of dielectric elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Wei

Dielectric elastomers are the most promising technology for mimicking human muscles in terms of strain, stress, and work density, etc. Actuators have been fabricated based on different design concepts and configurations for applications in robotics, prosthetic devices, medical implants, pumps, and valves. However, to date these actuators have experienced high rates of failure caused by electrical shorting of the compliant electrodes through the elastomer film during electrical breakdown, which has prevented their practical application. In this thesis, single walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) thin films were employed as compliant electrodes for dielectric elastomers to reduce the rate of failure. Thanks to the high aspect ratio of the SWNTs, the electrodes maintain substantial conductance at high biaxial strains. 3M VHB acrylics can be actuated up to 200% area strain with SWNT electrodes, this matches the performance of actuators with carbon grease electrodes. During uni-directional stretching, SWNT electrodes can maintain surface conductivity up to 700% linear strain. SWNT electrodes can experience a self-clearing process under high voltage discharging and electrically isolate the electrodes around the breakdown sites when breakdown events happen. With conventional dielectric elastomer electrode materials such as carbon grease and carbon black, a single breakdown event results in a permanent loss in the actuator's functionality. In contrast, for SWNT electrodes, the SWNTs around the breakdown site will be degraded and become non-conductive. The non-conductive area expands outward until the high voltage discharging stops. As such, the opposing electrodes are prevented from coming into contact with each other and forming an electrical short and the breakdown site is electrically isolated from the remainder of the active area. Despite the existence of the breakdown sites, the dielectric elastomer will resume its functionality and avoid permanent failure. Thus, dielectric elastomers with self-clearable SWNT electrodes will be self-healable. Due to the non-uniform surface morphology of SWNT thin films as well as their low turn-on voltage for field emission, corona discharging tends to occur on the electrode surface, even without the presence of a breakdown site through the film. The corona discharging will damage the SWNT electrodes, especially in the regions where the nanotube density is low. This in turn causes the dielectric elastomer to gradually lose its function. By applying a thin coating of dielectric oil on the SWNT electrodes, the corona discharging will be quenched. Dielectric elastomers with self-clearable SWNT electrodes combined with a dielectric oil coating show much longer lifetime and more stable operation. Thus, the SWNT self-clearable electrodes endow dielectric elastomers with fault-tolerance, high dielectric breakdown strength and long lifetime actuation. For examples, VHB acrylic elastomer can achieve 340 V/mum dielectric strength and 20x longer actuation. A dielectric strength of 270 V/mum and longer than 300 minutes of continuous actuation with 50% area strain have also obtained with silicone elastomers. This addition of self-clearable fault-tolerant electrodes to dielectric elastomers transducers improves the manufacturing yield and operational reliability of these artificial muscles and pushes them closer to commercialization.

Batch fabrication of optical actuators using nanotube-elastomer composites towards refreshable Braille displays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camargo, C. J.; Campanella, H.; Marshall, J. E.; Torras, N.; Zinoviev, K.; Terentjev, E. M.; Esteve, J.

2012-07-01

This paper reports an opto-actuable device fabricated using micro-machined silicon moulds. The actuating component of the device is made from a composite material containing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) embedded in a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) matrix. We demonstrate the fabrication of a patterned LCE-CNT film by a combination of mechanical stretching and thermal cross-linking. The resulting poly-domain LCE-CNT film contains ‘blister-shaped’ mono-domain regions, which reversibly change their shape under light irradiation and hence can be used as dynamic Braille dots. We demonstrate that blisters with diameters of 1.0 and 1.5 mm, and wall thickness 300 µm, will mechanically contract under irradiation by a laser diode with optical power up to 60 mW. The magnitude of this contraction was up to 40 µm, which is more than 10% of their height in the ‘rest’ state. The stabilization time of the material is less than 6 s for both actuation and recovery. We also carried out preliminary tests on the repeatability of this photo-actuation process, observing no material or performance degradation. This manufacturing approach establishes a starting point for the design and fabrication of wide-area tactile actuators, which are promising candidates for the development of new Braille reading applications for the visually impaired.

Microstamped opto-mechanical actuator for tactile displays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camargo, Carlos J.; Torras, Núria; Campanella, Humberto; Marshall, Jean E.; Zinoviev, Kirill; Campo, Eva M.; Terentjev, Eugene M.; Esteve, Jaume

2011-10-01

Over the last few years, several technologies have been adapted for use in tactile displays, such as thermo-pneumatic actuators, piezoelectric polymers and dielectric elastomers. None of these approaches offers high-performance for refreshable Braille display system (RBDS), due to considerations of weight, power efficiency and response speed. Optical actuation offers an attractive alternative to solve limitations of current-art technologies, allowing electromechanical decoupling, elimination of actuation circuits and remote controllability. Creating these opticallydriven devices requires liquid crystal - carbon nanotube (LC-CNT) composites that show a reversible shape change in response to an applied light. This work thus reports on novel opto-actuated Braille dots based on LC-CNT composite and silicon mold microstamping. The manufacturing approach succeeds on producing blisters according to the Braille standard for the visually impaired, by taking shear-aligned LC-CNT films and silicon stamps. For this application, we need to define specifically-shaped structures. Some technologies have succeeded on elastomer microstructuring. Nevertheless, they are not applicable for LC-CNT molding because they do not consider the stretching of the polymer which is required for LC-CNT fabrication. Our process demonstrates that composites micro-molding and their 3-D structuring is feasible by silicon-based stamping. Its work principle involves the mechanical stretching, allowing the LC mesogens alignment.

Optimization of shape control of a cantilever beam using dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chong; Mao, Boyong; Huang, Gangting; Wu, Qichen; Xie, Shilin; Xu, Minglong

2018-05-01

Dielectric elastomer (DE) is a kind of smart soft material that has many advantages such as large deformation, fast response, lightweight and easy synthesis. These features make dielectric elastomer a suitable material for actuators. This article focuses on the shape control of a cantilever beam by using dielectric elastomer actuators. The shape control equation in finite element formulation of the cantilever beam partially covered with dielectric elastomer actuators is derived based on the constitutive equation of dielectric elastomer material by using Hamilton principle. The actuating forces produced by dielectric elastomer actuators depend on the number of layers, the position and the actuation voltage of dielectric elastomer actuators. First, effects of these factors on the shape control accuracy when one pair or multiple pairs of actuators are employed are simulated, respectively. The simulation results demonstrate that increasing the number of actuators or the number of layers can improve the control effect and reduce the actuation voltages effectively. Second, to achieve the optimal shape control effect, the position of the actuators and the drive voltages are all determined using a genetic algorithm. The robustness of the genetic algorithm is analyzed. Moreover, the implications of using one pair and multiple pairs of actuators to drive the cantilever beam to the expected shape are investigated. The results demonstrate that a small number of actuators with optimal placement and optimal voltage values can achieve the shape control of the beam effectively. Finally, a preliminary experimental verification of the control effect is carried out, which shows the correctness of the theoretical method.

Theory Of Dewetting In A Filled Elastomer Under Stress

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peng, Steven T. J.

1993-01-01

Report presents theoretical study of dewetting between elastomeric binder and filler particles of highly filled elastomer under multiaxial tension and resulting dilatation of elastomer. Study directed toward understanding and predicting nonlinear stress-vs.-strain behavior of filled elastomeric rocket propellant, also applicable to rubber in highly loaded tire or in damping pad.

Enhancement of the electromechanical transduction properties of a silicone elastomer by blending with a conjugated polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carpi, F.; Gallone, G.; Galantini, F.; De Rossi, D.

2008-03-01

The need for high driving electric fields currently limits the diffusion of dielectric elastomer actuation in some areas of potential application, especially in the case of biomedical disciplines. A reduction of the driving fields may be achieved with new elastomers offering intrinsically superior electromechanical properties. So far, most of attempts in this direction have been focused on composites between elastomer matrixes and high-permittivity ceramic fillers, yielding to limited results. In this work, the electromechanical response of a silicone rubber (poly-dimethyl-siloxane) was improved by blending, rather than loading, the elastomer with a highly polarizable conjugated polymer (undoped poly-hexyl-thiophene). Very low percentages (1-6 wt%) of poly-hexyl-thiophene yielded both an increase of the dielectric permittivity and an unexpected reduction of the tensile elastic modulus. Both these factors contributed to a remarkable increase of the electromechanical response, which reached a maximum at 1 wt% content of conjugated polymer. This approach may lead to the development of new types of improved dielectric elastomers for actuation.

Fabrication and viscoelastic characteristics of waste tire rubber based magnetorheological elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ubaidillah; Choi, H. J.; Mazlan, S. A.; Imaduddin, F.; Harjana

2016-11-01

In this study, waste tire rubber (WTR) was successfully converted into magnetorheological (MR) elastomer via high-pressure and high-temperature reclamation. The physical and rheological properties of WTR based MR elastomers were assessed for performance. The revulcanization process was at the absence of magnetic fields. Thus, the magnetizable particles were allowed to distribute randomly. To confirm the particle dispersion in the MR elastomer matrix, an observation by scanning electron microscopy was used. The magnetization saturation and other magnetic properties were obtained through vibrating sample magnetometer. Rheological properties including MR effect were examined under oscillatory loadings in the absence and presence of magnetic fields using rotational rheometer. The WTR based MR elastomer exhibited tunable intrinsic properties under presentation of magnetic fields. The storage and loss modulus, along with the loss factor, changed with increases in frequency and during magnetization. Interestingly, a Payne effect phenomenon was seen in all samples during dynamic swept strain testing. The Payne effect was significantly increased with incremental increases in the magnetic field. This phenomenon was interpreted as the process of formation-destruction-reformation undergone by the internal network chains in the MR elastomers.

Semi-active control of a sandwich beam partially filled with magnetorheological elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dyniewicz, Bartłomiej; Bajkowski, Jacek M.; Bajer, Czesław I.

2015-08-01

The paper deals with the semi-active control of vibrations of structural elements. Elastomer composites with ferromagnetic particles that act as magnetorheological fluids are used. The damping coefficient and the shear modulus of the elastomer increases when it is exposed to an electro-magnetic field. The control of this process in time allows us to reduce vibrations more effectively than if the elastomer is permanently exposed to a magnetic field. First the analytical solution for the vibrations of a sandwich beam filled with an elastomer is given. Then the control problem is defined and applied to the analytical formula. The numerical solution of the minimization problem results in a periodic, perfectly rectangular control function if free vibrations are considered. Such a temporarily acting magnetic field is more efficient than a constantly acting one. The surplus reaches 20-50% or more, depending on the filling ratio of the elastomer. The resulting control was verified experimentally in the vibrations of a cantilever sandwich beam. The proposed semi-active control can be directly applied to engineering vibrating structural elements, for example helicopter rotors, aircraft wings, pads under machines, and vehicles.

Toughening elastomers with sacrificial bonds and watching them break.

PubMed

Ducrot, Etienne; Chen, Yulan; Bulters, Markus; Sijbesma, Rint P; Creton, Costantino

2014-04-11

Elastomers are widely used because of their large-strain reversible deformability. Most unfilled elastomers suffer from a poor mechanical strength, which limits their use. Using sacrificial bonds, we show how brittle, unfilled elastomers can be strongly reinforced in stiffness and toughness (up to 4 megapascals and 9 kilojoules per square meter) by introducing a variable proportion of isotropically prestretched chains that can break and dissipate energy before the material fails. Chemoluminescent cross-linking molecules, which emit light as they break, map in real time where and when many of these internal bonds break ahead of a propagating crack. The simple methodology that we use to introduce sacrificial bonds, combined with the mapping of where bonds break, has the potential to stimulate the development of new classes of unfilled tough elastomers and better molecular models of the fracture of soft materials.

Ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) and fluorocarbon (FKM) elastomers in the geothermal environment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Harwood, H.J.

1983-07-01

Thermal and hydrolytic processes that are likely to occur when hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon elastomers are subjected to geothermal conditions are discussed. Polyhydrocarbon backbones have good chemical resistance, but many cross-links present in cured polyhydrocarbons can be hydrolyzed under geothermal conditions. Perfluorinated elastomers have excellent thermal and hydrolytic stability, although they are potentially susceptible to hydrolytic degradation. The cross-links present in cured perfluorocarbon elastomers are probably also susceptible to hydrolysis under severe conditions. It seems that improvements can be made in geothermal seals if they can be cured by processes that yield chemically stable cross-links.

Treatment to Control Adhesion of Silicone-Based Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

deGroh, Henry C., III; Puleo, Bernadette J.; Waters, Deborah L.

2013-01-01

Seals are used to facilitate the joining of two items, usually temporarily. At some point in the future, it is expected that the items will need to be separated. This innovation enables control of the adhesive properties of silicone-based elastomers. The innovation may also be effective on elastomers other than the silicone-based ones. A technique has been discovered that decreases the level of adhesion of silicone- based elastomers to negligible levels. The new technique causes less damage to the material compared to alternative adhesion mitigation techniques. Silicone-based elastomers are the only class of rubber-like materials that currently meet NASA s needs for various seal applications. However, silicone-based elastomers have natural inherent adhesive properties. This stickiness can be helpful, but it can frequently cause problems as well, such as when trying to get items apart. In the past, seal adhesion was not always adequately addressed, and has caused in-flight failures where seals were actually pulled from their grooves, preventing subsequent spacecraft docking until the seal was physically removed from the flange via an extravehicular activity (EVA). The primary method used in the past to lower elastomer seal adhesion has been the application of some type of lubricant or grease to the surface of the seal. A newer method uses ultraviolet (UV) radiation a mixture of UV wavelengths in the range of near ultraviolet (NUV) and vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) wavelengths.

Light emitting elastomer compositions and method of use

DOEpatents

McElhanon, James R.; Zifer, Thomas; Whinnery, LeRoy L.

2004-11-23

There is provided a light emitting device comprising a plurality of triboluminescent particles dispersed throughout an elastomeric body and activated by deforming the body in order to transfer mechanical energy to some portion of the particles. The light emitted by these mechanically excited particles is collected and directed into a light conduit and transmitted to a detector/indicator means.

Liquid Crystal Elastomers—A Path to Biocompatible and Biodegradable 3D-LCE Scaffolds for Tissue Regeneration

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

The development of appropriate materials that can make breakthroughs in tissue engineering has long been pursued by the scientific community. Several types of material have been long tested and re-designed for this purpose. At the same time, liquid crystals (LCs) have captivated the scientific community since their discovery in 1888 and soon after were thought to be, in combination with polymers, artificial muscles. Within the past decade liquid crystal elastomers (LCE) have been attracting increasing interest for their use as smart advanced materials for biological applications. Here, we examine how LCEs can potentially be used as dynamic substrates for culturing cells, moving away from the classical two-dimensional cell-culture nature. We also briefly discuss the integration of a few technologies for the preparation of more sophisticated LCE-composite scaffolds for more dynamic biomaterials. The anisotropic properties of LCEs can be used not only to promote cell attachment and the proliferation of cells, but also to promote cell alignment under LCE-stimulated deformation. 3D LCEs are ideal materials for new insights to simulate and study the development of tissues and the complex interplay between cells. PMID:29510523

Elastomer Filled With Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Files, Bradley S.; Forest, Craig R.

2004-01-01

Experiments have shown that composites of a silicone elastomer with single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are significantly stronger and stiffer than is the unfilled elastomer. The large strengthening and stiffening effect observed in these experiments stands in contrast to the much smaller strengthening effect observed in related prior efforts to reinforce epoxies with SWNTs and to reinforce a variety of polymers with multiple-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs). The relative largeness of the effect in the case of the silicone-elastomer/SWNT composites appears to be attributable to (1) a better match between the ductility of the fibers and the elasticity of the matrix and (2) the greater tensile strengths of SWNTs, relative to MWNTs. For the experiments, several composites were formulated by mixing various proportions of SWNTs and other filling materials into uncured RTV-560, which is a silicone adhesive commonly used in aerospace applications. Specimens of a standard "dog-bone" size and shape for tensile testing were made by casting the uncured elastomer/filler mixtures into molds, curing the elastomer, then pressing the specimens from a "cookie-cutter" die. The results of tensile tests of the specimens showed that small percentages of SWNT filler led to large increases in stiffness and tensile strength, and that these increases were greater than those afforded by other fillers. For example, the incorporation of SWNTs in a proportion of 1 percent increased the tensile strength by 44 percent and the modulus of elasticity (see figure) by 75 percent. However, the relative magnitudes of the increases decreased with increasing nanotube percentages because more nanotubes made the elastomer/nanotube composites more brittle. At an SWNT content of 10 percent, the tensile strength and modulus of elasticity were 125 percent and 562 percent, respectively, greater than the corresponding values for the unfilled elastomer.

Two-way shape memory behavior of semi-crystalline elastomer under stress-free condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, Chen; Dong, Yubing; Zhu, Yaofeng; Fu, Yaqin

2016-08-01

Semi-crystalline shape memory polymers exhibit two-way shape memory effect (2W-SME) under constant stresses through crystallization-induced elongation upon cooling and melting-induced constriction upon heating. The applied constant stress influenced the prediction and usability of 2W-SME in practical applications without any external force. Here the reversible shape transition in EVA-shaped memory polymer was quantitative analyzed under a suitable temperature range and external stress-free condition. The fraction of reversible strain increased with increasing upper temperature (T high) within the temperature range and reached the maximum value of 13.62% at 70 °C. However, reversible strain transition was almost lost when T high exceeded 80 °C because of complete melting of crystalline scaffold, known as the latent recrystallization template. The non-isothermal annealing of EVA 2W-SMP under changing circulating temperatures was confirmed. Moreover, the orientation of crystallization was retained at high temperatures. These findings may contribute to design an appropriate shape memory protocol based on application-specific requirements.

Mechanically Stretchable and Electrically Insulating Thermal Elastomer Composite by Liquid Alloy Droplet Embedment.

PubMed

Jeong, Seung Hee; Chen, Si; Huo, Jinxing; Gamstedt, Erik Kristofer; Liu, Johan; Zhang, Shi-Li; Zhang, Zhi-Bin; Hjort, Klas; Wu, Zhigang

2015-12-16

Stretchable electronics and soft robotics have shown unsurpassed features, inheriting remarkable functions from stretchable and soft materials. Electrically conductive and mechanically stretchable materials based on composites have been widely studied for stretchable electronics as electrical conductors using various combinations of materials. However, thermally tunable and stretchable materials, which have high potential in soft and stretchable thermal devices as interface or packaging materials, have not been sufficiently studied. Here, a mechanically stretchable and electrically insulating thermal elastomer composite is demonstrated, which can be easily processed for device fabrication. A liquid alloy is embedded as liquid droplet fillers in an elastomer matrix to achieve softness and stretchability. This new elastomer composite is expected useful to enhance thermal response or efficiency of soft and stretchable thermal devices or systems. The thermal elastomer composites demonstrate advantages such as thermal interface and packaging layers with thermal shrink films in transient and steady-state cases and a stretchable temperature sensor.

Elastomer Reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hudson, Jared L.; Krishnamoorti, Ramanan

2009-01-01

Elastomers are reinforced with functionalized, single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) giving them high-breaking strain levels and low densities. Cross-linked elastomers are prepared using amine-terminated, poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), with an average molecular weight of 5,000 daltons, and a functionalized SWNT. Cross-link densities, estimated on the basis of swelling data in toluene (a dispersing solvent) indicated that the polymer underwent cross-linking at the ends of the chains. This thermally initiated cross-linking was found to occur only in the presence of the aryl alcohol functionalized SWNTs. The cross-link could have been via a hydrogen-bonding mechanism between the amine and the free hydroxyl group, or via attack of the amine on the ester linage to form an amide. Tensile properties examined at room temperature indicate a three-fold increase in the tensile modulus of the elastomer, with rupture and failure of the elastomer occurring at a strain of 6.5.

An in-vitro evaluation of silicone elastomer latex for topical drug delivery.

PubMed

Li, L C; Vu, N T

1995-06-01

A silicone elastomer latex was evaluated as a topical drug-delivery system. With the addition of a fumed silica and the removal of water, the latex produced elastomeric solid films. The water vapour permeability of the solid film was found to be a function of the film composition. An increase in silica content and the incorporation of a water-soluble component, PEG 3350, rendered the silicone elastomer-free film even more permeable to water vapour. The release of hydrocortisone from the elastomer film can be described by a matrix-diffusion-controlled mechanism. Drug diffusion is thought to occur through the hydrophobic silicone polymer network and the hydrated hydrophilic silica region in the film matrix. Silicone elastomer film with a higher silica content exhibited a faster drug-release rate. The addition of PEG 3350 to the film further enhanced the drug-release rate.

Development of procedures for calculating stiffness and damping of elastomers in engineering applications. Part 5: Elastomer performance limits and the design and test of an elastomer damper

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tecza, J. A.; Darlow, M. S.; Smalley, A. J.

1979-01-01

Tests were performed on elastomer specimens of the material polybutadiene to determine the performance limitations imposed by strain, temperature, and frequency. Three specimens were tested: a shear specimen, a compression specimen, and a second compression specimen in which thermocouples were embedded in the elastomer buttons. Stiffness and damping were determined from all tests, and internal temperatures were recorded for the instrumented compression specimen. Measured results are presented together with comparisons between predictions of a thermo-viscoelastic analysis and the measured results. Dampers of polybutadiene and Viton were designed, built, and tested. Vibration measurements were made and sensitivity of vibration to change in unbalance was also determined. Values for log decrement were extracted from the synchronous response curves. Comparisons were made between measured sensitivity to unbalance and log decrement and predicted values for these quantities.

Evaluation of selected elastomer O-ring pump seals for service at the Wilsonville, Alabama, Advanced Coal Liquefaction Research and Development Facility. [Ethylenepropylenediene monomer compounds

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Skena, C.C.; Keiser, J.R.

1986-08-01

Previous laboratory tests of elastomer O-rings in coal liquefaction solvents conducted at L'Garde, Inc., indicated that certain ethylenepropylenediene monomer (EPDM) compounds provided the best performance when a backup ring was used to limit swelling. Before service testing in a pump at the Wilsonville, Alabama, Advanced Coal Liquefaction Research and Development Facility, tests of six selected elastomers in the appropriate Wilsonville-produced solvent were conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The ORNL tests measured the elastomers' changes in cross section, weight, density, and relative flexibility. Although two perfluoroelastomers showed less degradation of most properties during these tests, it was decided tomore » proceed with service testing of two EPDM elastomers because of their much lower cost. 5 refs., 14 figs., 7 tabs.« less

Numerical study of effect of elastomeric stress absorbers on stress reduction in bone-dental implant interface.

PubMed

Mehdi, Ghalem; Belarbi, Abderrahmane; Mansouri, Bensmaine; Azari, Zitouni

2015-01-01

This paper focused on optimal stress distribution in the mandibular bone surrounding a dental implant and is devoted to the development of a modified Osteoplant® implant type in order to minimize stress concentration in the bone-implant interface. This study investigated 0.4 mm thick layers of two elastomeric stress barriers incorporated into the dental implant using 3-D finite element analysis. Overall, this proposed implant provoked lower load transfer in bone-implant interface due to the effect of the elastomers as stress absorbers. The stress level in the bone was reduced between 28% and 42% for three load cases: 75 N, 60 N and 27 N in corono-apical, linguo-buccal and disto-mesial direction, respectively. The proposed model provided an acceptable solution for load transfer reduction to the mandible. This investigation also permitted to choose how to incorporate two elastomers into the Osteoplant® implant system.

Design and proof of concept for multi degree of freedom hydrostatically coupled dielectric elastomer actuators with roto-translational kinematics for object handling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Acutis, A.; Calabrese, L.; Bau, A.; Tincani, V.; Pugno, N. M.; Bicchi, A.; De Rossi, D. E.

2018-07-01

In this article we present an upgraded design of the existing push–pull hydrostatically coupled dielectric elastomer actuator (HC-DEA) for use in the field of soft manipulators. The new design has segmented electrodes, which stand as four independent elements on the active membrane of the actuator. When properly operated, the actuator can generate both out of plane and in-plane motions resulting in a multi-degrees of freedom soft actuator able to exert both normal pushes (like a traditional HC-DEA) and tangential thrusts. This novel design makes the actuator suitable for delicate flat object transportation. In order to use the actuator in soft systems, we experimentally characterized its electromechanical transduction and modeled its contact mechanics. Finally, we show that the proposed actuator can be employed as a modular unit to develop active surfaces for flat object roto-translation.

Enhanced adhesion of bioinspired nanopatterned elastomers via colloidal surface assembly

PubMed Central

Akerboom, Sabine; Appel, Jeroen; Labonte, David; Federle, Walter; Sprakel, Joris; Kamperman, Marleen

2015-01-01

We describe a scalable method to fabricate nanopatterned bioinspired dry adhesives using colloidal lithography. Close-packed monolayers of polystyrene particles were formed at the air/water interface, on which polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was applied. The order of the colloidal monolayer and the immersion depth of the particles were tuned by altering the pH and ionic strength of the water. Initially, PDMS completely wetted the air/water interface outside the monolayer, thereby compressing the monolayer as in a Langmuir trough; further application of PDMS subsequently covered the colloidal monolayers. PDMS curing and particle extraction resulted in elastomers patterned with nanodimples. Adhesion and friction of these nanopatterned surfaces with varying dimple depth were studied using a spherical probe as a counter-surface. Compared with smooth surfaces, adhesion of nanopatterned surfaces was enhanced, which is attributed to an energy-dissipating mechanism during pull-off. All nanopatterned surfaces showed a significant decrease in friction compared with smooth surfaces. PMID:25392404

Water permeation through organic materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doughty, D. H.; West, I. A.

1981-09-01

Atmospheric moisture is routinely excluded from weapon systems by the use of elastomer seals at assembly joints and electrical feedthroughs while internal moisture is minimized by relying on desiccants and on pre-dried components assembled in special low humidity assembly rooms. Published values of the water permeation coefficient for ethylene-propylene rubber and other o-ring materials are subject to some variability and the effects of aging on water permability are unknown. We have thus devised a new and extremely sensitive method for measuring moisture permeation coefficients in organic materials. This method uses dilute tritiated water as a tracer and it is approximately two orders of magnitude more sensitive than other methods. We are therefore able to make measurements on materials under STS temperature and humidity conditions. Rate data showing the approach to equilibrium and water permeability values for a variety of elastomers are presented. The test apparatus is also described.

Numerical analysis and experimental verification of elastomer bending process with different material models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kut, Stanislaw; Ryzinska, Grazyna; Niedzialek, Bernadetta

2016-01-01

The article presents the results of tests in order to verifying the effectiveness of the nine selected elastomeric material models (Neo-Hookean, Mooney with two and three constants, Signorini, Yeoh, Ogden, Arruda-Boyce, Gent and Marlow), which the material constants were determined in one material test - the uniaxial tension testing. The convergence assessment of nine analyzed models were made on the basis of their performance from an experimental bending test of the elastomer samples from the results of numerical calculations FEM for each material models. To calculate the material constants for the analyzed materials, a model has been generated by the stressstrain characteristics created as a result of experimental uniaxial tensile test with elastomeric dumbbell samples, taking into account the parameters received in its 18th cycle. Using such a calculated material constants numerical simulation of the bending process of a elastomeric, parallelepipedic sampleswere carried out using MARC / Mentat program.

Sulfur Mustard Penetration of Thermoplastic Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-10-01

blend of polypropylene and finely dispersed, highly vulcanised EPDM rubber [4]. However its exact composition is a trade secret. The Santoprene grade... rubber or silicone rubber . Compared to thermoplastic elastomers, these thermosetting elastomers are expensive and difficult to process. Therefore a...the last few decades, CBR respirators have generally been manufactured from either butyl rubber (as in the British and Australian S10), or silicone

Synthesis of novel lidocaine-releasing poly(diol-co-citrate) elastomers by using deep eutectic solvents.

PubMed

Serrano, M Concepción; Gutiérrez, María C; Jiménez, Ricardo; Ferrer, M Luisa; del Monte, Francisco

2012-01-14

Poly(octanediol-co-citrate) elastomers containing high loading of lidocaine were synthesized at temperatures below 100 °C by means of using deep eutectic mixtures of 1,8-octanediol and lidocaine. The preservation of lidocaine integrity resulted in high-capacity drug-eluting elastomers. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2012

Self-healing of optical functions by molecular metabolism in a swollen elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Mitsunori; Nishimura, Tatsuya; Sakiyama, Kohei; Inagaki, Sota

2012-12-01

Optical functions of organic dyes, e.g., fluorescence or photochromism, tend to degrade by light irradiation, which causes a short lifetime of photonic devices. Self-healing of optical functions is attainable by metabolizing bleached molecules with nonirradiated ones. A polydimethylsiloxane elastomer provides a useful matrix for dye molecules, since its flexible structure with nano-sized intermolecular spaces allows dye diffusion from a reservoir to an operation region. Swelling the elastomer with a suitable solvent promotes both dissolution and diffusion of dye molecules. This self-healing function was demonstrated by an experiment in which a photochromic elastomer exhibited improved durability against a repeated coloring-decoloring process.

Parameters design of the dielectric elastomer spring-roll bending actuator (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jinrong; Liu, Liwu; Liu, Yanju; Leng, Jinsong

2017-04-01

Dielectric elastomers are novel soft smart material that could deform sustainably when subjected to external electric field. That makes dielectric elastomers promising materials for actuators. In this paper, a spring-roll actuator that would bend when a high voltage is applied was fabricated based on dielectric elastomer. Using such actuators as active parts, the flexible grippers and inchworm-inspired crawling robots were manufactured, which demonstrated some examples of applications in soft robotics. To guide the parameters design of dielectric elastomer based spring-roll bending actuators, the theoretical model of such actuators was established based on thermodynamic theories. The initial deformation and electrical induced bending angle of actuators were formulated. The failure of actuators was also analyzed considering some typical failure modes like electromechanical instability, electrical breakdown, loss of tension and maximum tolerant stretch. Thus the allowable region of actuators was determined. Then the bending angle-voltage relations and failure voltages of actuators with different parameters, including stretches of the dielectric elastomer film, number of active layers, and dimensions of spring, were investigated. The influences of each parameter on the actuator performances were discussed, providing meaningful guidance to the optical design of the spring-roll bending actuators.

Flexible and stretchable electrodes for dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosset, Samuel; Shea, Herbert R.

2013-02-01

Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are flexible lightweight actuators that can generate strains of over 100 %. They are used in applications ranging from haptic feedback (mm-sized devices), to cm-scale soft robots, to meter-long blimps. DEAs consist of an electrode-elastomer-electrode stack, placed on a frame. Applying a voltage between the electrodes electrostatically compresses the elastomer, which deforms in-plane or out-of plane depending on design. Since the electrodes are bonded to the elastomer, they must reliably sustain repeated very large deformations while remaining conductive, and without significantly adding to the stiffness of the soft elastomer. The electrodes are required for electrostatic actuation, but also enable resistive and capacitive sensing of the strain, leading to self-sensing actuators. This review compares the different technologies used to make compliant electrodes for DEAs in terms of: impact on DEA device performance (speed, efficiency, maximum strain), manufacturability, miniaturization, the integration of self-sensing and self-switching, and compatibility with low-voltage operation. While graphite and carbon black have been the most widely used technique in research environments, alternative methods are emerging which combine compliance, conduction at over 100 % strain with better conductivity and/or ease of patternability, including microfabrication-based approaches for compliant metal thin-films, metal-polymer nano-composites, nanoparticle implantation, and reel-to-reel production of μm-scale patterned thin films on elastomers. Such electrodes are key to miniaturization, low-voltage operation, and widespread commercialization of DEAs.

Mechanical Response of Elastomers to Magnetic Fields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Munoz, B. C.; Jolly, M. R.

1996-01-01

Elastomeric materials represent an important class of engineering materials, which are widely used to make components of structures, machinery, and devices for vibration and noise control. Elastomeric material possessing conductive or magnetic properties have been widely used in applications such as conductive and magnetic tapes, sensors, flexible permanent magnets, etc. Our interest in these materials has focussed on understanding and controlling the magnitude and directionality of their response to applied magnetic fields. The effect of magnetic fields on the mechanical properties of these materials has not been the subject of many published studies. Our interest and expertise in controllable fluids have given us the foundation to make a transition to controllable elastomers. Controllable elastomers are materials that exhibit a change in mechanical properties upon application of an external stimuli, in this case a magnetic field. Controllable elastomers promise to have more functionality than conventional elastomers and therefore could share the broad industrial application base with conventional elastomers. As such, these materials represent an attractive class of smart materials, and may well be a link that brings the applications of modern control technologies, intelligent structures and smart materials to a very broad industrial area. This presentation will cover our research work in the area of controllable elastomers at the Thomas Lord Research Center. More specifically, the presentation will discuss the control of mechanical properties and mathematical modeling of the new materials prepared in our laboratories along with experiments to achieve adaptive vibration control using the new materials.

The development and characterization of degradable poly(vinyl ester) and poly(vinyl ester)/PEO block copolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipscomb, Corinne Elizabeth

The development of biodegradable materials is a challenging and important problem in polymer science. A review of the state of the art in degradable materials is presented, which reveals that current biodegradable materials do not exhibit the thermal or mechanical properties necessary for widespread applications. One strategy for toughening polymeric materials, which has previously been applied to non-degradable thermoplastics and thermoplastic elastomers, is the formation of block copolymers. Poly(vinyl esters) (PVE) homopolymers are known to have a wide range of properties, but PVE block copolymers comprise a class of inexpensive and (bio)degradable materials that were previously unknown. Therefore, the synthesis and properties of these block copolymers were explored in an effort to develop robust degradable materials. This thesis research probes the reaction conditions necessary for the reversible-addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and chain extension reactions of vinyl ester monomers. PVE di- and triblock copolymers are synthesized and studied, and the triblock copolymers display extremely poor toughness due to their relatively low molecular weights in light of the high entanglement molecular weight of the poly(vinyl acetate) center block. Attempts to improve the mechanical properties of these materials focus on the incorporation of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) as a low entanglement molecular weight and biocompatible center block in PVE-containing triblock copolymers. Depending on the choice of PVE endblocks and the overall polymer composition, crystallization of the PEO block can be controlled, confined, or inhibited. Polymers in which PEO crystallization is completely inhibited exhibit enhanced mechanical properties and behave as weak thermoplastics. In order to understand the relationship between the inhibition of PEO crystallization and the mechanical properties of PVE/PEO materials, these polymers were studied using dynamic mechanical spectroscopy, wide angle X-ray scattering, small angle X-ray scattering, differential scanning calorimetry, and uniaxial tensile tests. By combining insights gained from these techniques, a complex picture emerges that explains the enhanced mechanical properties of these materials based on the type and location of thermal transitions, amorphous PEO entanglements, and the strain-induced crystallization of PEO. This work represents an important step toward developing robust materials with tunable properties containing (bio)degradable components.

Challenges in Materials Transformation Modeling for Polyolefins Industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, Shih-Yaw; Swogger, Kurt W.

2004-06-01

Unlike most published polymer processing and/or forming research, the transformation of polyolefins to fabricated articles often involves non-confined flow or so-called free surface flow (e.g. fiber spinning, blown films, and cast films) in which elongational flow takes place during a fabrication process. Obviously, the characterization and validation of extensional rheological parameters and their use to develop rheological constitutive models are the focus of polyolefins materials transformation research. Unfortunately, there are challenges that remain with limited validation for non-linear, non-isothermal constitutive models for polyolefins. Further complexity arises in the transformation of polyolefins in the elongational flow system as it involves stress-induced crystallization process. The complicated nature of elongational, non-linear rheology and non-isothermal crystallization kinetics make the development of numerical methods very challenging for the polyolefins materials forming modeling. From the product based company standpoint, the challenges of materials transformation research go beyond elongational rheology, crystallization kinetics and its numerical modeling. In order to make models useful for the polyolefin industry, it is critical to develop links between molecular parameters to both equipment and materials forming parameters. The recent advances in the constrained geometry catalysis and materials sciences understanding (INSITE technology and molecular design capability) has made industrial polyolefinic materials forming modeling more viable due to the fact that the molecular structure of the polymer can be well predicted and controlled during the polymerization. In this paper, we will discuss inter-relationship (models) among molecular parameters such as polymer molecular weight (Mw), molecular weight distribution (MWD), long chain branching (LCB), short chain branching (SCB or comonomer types and distribution) and their affects on shear and elongational rheologies, on tie-molecules probabilities, on non-isothermal stress-induced crystallization, on crystalline/amorphous orientation vs. mechanical property relationship, etc. All of the above mentioned inter-relationships (models) are critical to the successful development of a knowledge based industrial model. Dow Polyolefins and Elastomers business is one of the world largest polyolefins resin producers with the most advanced INSITE technology and a "6-Day model" molecular design capability. Dow also offers one of the broadest polyolefinic product ranges and applications to the market.

Liquid crystals in micron-scale droplets, shells and fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Urbanski, Martin; Reyes, Catherine G.; Noh, JungHyun; Sharma, Anshul; Geng, Yong; Subba Rao Jampani, Venkata; Lagerwall, Jan P. F.

2017-04-01

The extraordinary responsiveness and large diversity of self-assembled structures of liquid crystals are well documented and they have been extensively used in devices like displays. For long, this application route strongly influenced academic research, which frequently focused on the performance of liquid crystals in display-like geometries, typically between flat, rigid substrates of glass or similar solids. Today a new trend is clearly visible, where liquid crystals confined within curved, often soft and flexible, interfaces are in focus. Innovation in microfluidic technology has opened for high-throughput production of liquid crystal droplets or shells with exquisite monodispersity, and modern characterization methods allow detailed analysis of complex director arrangements. The introduction of electrospinning in liquid crystal research has enabled encapsulation in optically transparent polymeric cylinders with very small radius, allowing studies of confinement effects that were not easily accessible before. It also opened the prospect of functionalizing textile fibers with liquid crystals in the core, triggering activities that target wearable devices with true textile form factor for seamless integration in clothing. Together, these developments have brought issues center stage that might previously have been considered esoteric, like the interaction of topological defects on spherical surfaces, saddle-splay curvature-induced spontaneous chiral symmetry breaking, or the non-trivial shape changes of curved liquid crystal elastomers with non-uniform director fields that undergo a phase transition to an isotropic state. The new research thrusts are motivated equally by the intriguing soft matter physics showcased by liquid crystals in these unconventional geometries, and by the many novel application opportunities that arise when we can reproducibly manufacture these systems on a commercial scale. This review attempts to summarize the current understanding of liquid crystals in spherical and cylindrical geometry, the state of the art of producing such samples, as well as the perspectives for innovative applications that have been put forward.

WATER STABILITY OF FILLED ELASTOMERS,

DTIC Science & Technology

ELECTRICAL INSULATION, *BUTYL RUBBER , ELASTOMERS, STABILITY, STABILITY, HYDROLYSIS, CURING AGENTS, ADDITIVES, WATER, ABSORPTION, THICKNESS, ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE, LEAKAGE(ELECTRICAL), DIFFUSION, TALC, ELECTRIC CABLES.

Spontaneous Periodic Delamination of Thin Films To Form Crack-Free Metal and Silicon Ribbons with High Stretchability.

PubMed

Zhang, Qiuting; Tang, Yichao; Hajfathalian, Maryam; Chen, Chunxu; Turner, Kevin T; Dikin, Dmitriy A; Lin, Gaojian; Yin, Jie

2017-12-27

Design of electronic materials with high stretchability is of great importance for realizing soft and conformal electronics. One strategy of realizing stretchable metals and semiconductors is to exploit the buckling of materials bonded to elastomers. However, the level of stretchability is often limited by the cracking and fragmentation of the materials that occurs when constrained buckling occurs while bonded to the substrate. Here, we exploit a failure mechanism, spontaneous buckling-driven periodic delamination, to achieve high stretchability in metal and silicon films that are deposited on prestrained elastomer substrates. We find that both globally periodic buckle-delaminated pattern and ordered cracking patterns over large areas are observed in the spontaneously buckle-delaminated thin films. The geometry of periodic delaminated buckles and cracking periodicity can be predicted by theoretical models. By patterning the films into ribbons with widths smaller than the predicted cracking periodicity, we demonstrate the design of crack-free and spontaneous delaminated ribbons on highly prestrained elastomer substrates, which provides a high stretchability of about 120% and 400% in Si and Au ribbons, respectively. We find that the high stretchability is mainly attributed to the largely relaxed strain in the ribbons via spontaneous buckling-driven delamination, as made evident by the small maximum tensile strain in both ribbons, which is measured to be over 100 times smaller than that of the substrate prestrain.

Stretching-induced wrinkling in plastic-rubber composites.

PubMed

Yang, Junyu; Damle, Sameer; Maiti, Spandan; Velankar, Sachin S

2017-01-25

We examine the mechanics of three-layer composite films composed of an elastomeric layer sandwiched between two thin surface layers of plastic. Upon stretching and releasing such composite films, they develop a highly wrinkled surface texture. The mechanism for this texturing is that during stretching, the plastic layers yield and stretch irreversibly whereas the elastomer stretches reversibly. Thus upon releasing, the plastic layers buckle due to compressive stress imposed by the elastomer. Experiments are conducted using SEPS elastomer and 50 micron thick LLDPE plastic films. Stretching and releasing the composites to 2-5 times their original length induces buckles with wavelength on the order of 200 microns, and the wavelength decreases as the stretching increases. FEM simulations reveal that plastic deformation is involved at all stages during this process: (1) during stretching, the plastic layer yields in tension; (2) during recovery, the plastic layer first yields in-plane in compression and then buckles; (3) post-buckling, plastic hinges are formed at high-curvature regions. Homogeneous wrinkles are predicted only within a finite window of material properties: if the yield stress is too low, the plastic layers yield in-plane, without wrinkling, whereas if the yield stress is too high, non-homogeneous wrinkles are predicted. This approach to realizing highly wrinkled textures offers several advantages, most importantly the fact that high aspect ratio wrinkles (amplitude to wavelength ratios exceeding 0.4) can be realized.

Optimized deformation behavior of a dielectric elastomer generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foerster, Florentine; Schlaak, Helmut F.

2014-03-01

Dielectric elastomer generators (DEGs) produce electrical energy by converting mechanical into electrical energy. Efficient operation requires an optimal deformation of the DEG during the energy harvesting cycle. However, the deformation resulting from an external load has to be applied to the DEG. The deformation behavior of the DEG is dependent on the type of the mechanical interconnection between the elastic DEG and a stiff support area. The maximization of the capacitance of the DEG in the deformed state leads to the maximum absolute energy gain. Therefore several configurations of mechanical interconnections between a single DEG module as well as multiple stacked DEG modules and stiff supports are investigated in order to find the optimal mechanical interconnection. The investigation is done with numerical simulations using the FEM software ANSYS. A DEG module consists of 50 active dielectric layers with a single layer thickness of 50 μm. The elastomer material is silicone (PDMS) while the compliant electrodes are made of graphite powder. In the simulation the real material parameters of the PDMS and the graphite electrodes are included to compare simulation results to experimental investigations in the future. The numerical simulations of the several configurations are carried out as coupled electro-mechanical simulation for the first step in an energy harvesting cycle with constant external load strain. The simulation results are discussed and an optimal mechanical interconnection between DEG modules and stiff supports is derived.

Development of procedures for calculating stiffness and damping of elastomers in engineering applications, part 6

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rieger, A.; Burgess, G.; Zorzi, E.

1980-01-01

An elastomer damper was designed, tested, and compared with the performance of a hydraulic damper for a power transmission shaft. The six button Viton-70 damper was designed so that the elastomer damper or the hydraulic damper could be activated without upsetting the imbalance condition of the assembly. This permitted a direct comparison of damper effectiveness. The elastomer damper consistently performed better than the hydraulic mount and permitted stable operation of the power transmission shaft to speeds higher than obtained with the squeeze film damper. Tests were performed on shear specimens of Viton-79, Buna-N, EPDM, and Neoprene to determine performance limitations imposed by strain, temperature, and frequency. Frequencies of between 110 Hz and 1100 Hz were surveyed with imposed strains between 0.0005 and 0.08 at temperatures of 32 C, 66 C, and 80 C. A set of design curves was generated in a unified format for each of the elastomer materials.

Inflated dielectric elastomer actuator for eyeball's movements: fabrication, analysis and experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yanju; Shi, Liang; Liu, Liwu; Zhang, Zhen; Leng, Jinsong

2008-03-01

Bio-mimetic actuators are inspired to the human or animal organ and they are aimed at replicating actions exerted by the main organic muscles. We present here an inflated dielectric Electroactive Polymer actuator based on acrylic elastomer aiming at mimicing the ocular muscular of the human eye. Two sheets of polyacrylic elastomer coated with conductive carbon grease are sticked to a rotatable backbone, which function like an agonist-antagonist configuration. When stimulating the two elastomer sheets separately, the rotatable mid-arc of the actuator is capable of rotating from -50° to 50°. Experiments shows that the inflated actuator, compared with uninflated one, performs much bigger rotating angle and more strengthened. Connected with the actuator via an elastic tensive line, the eyeball rotates around the symmetrical axes. The realization of more accurate movements and emotional expressions of our native eye system is the next step of our research and still under studied. This inflated dielectric elastomer actuator shows as well great potential application in robofish and adaptive stucture.

Mechanically Stretchable and Electrically Insulating Thermal Elastomer Composite by Liquid Alloy Droplet Embedment

PubMed Central

Jeong, Seung Hee; Chen, Si; Huo, Jinxing; Gamstedt, Erik Kristofer; Liu, Johan; Zhang, Shi-Li; Zhang, Zhi-Bin; Hjort, Klas; Wu, Zhigang

2015-01-01

Stretchable electronics and soft robotics have shown unsurpassed features, inheriting remarkable functions from stretchable and soft materials. Electrically conductive and mechanically stretchable materials based on composites have been widely studied for stretchable electronics as electrical conductors using various combinations of materials. However, thermally tunable and stretchable materials, which have high potential in soft and stretchable thermal devices as interface or packaging materials, have not been sufficiently studied. Here, a mechanically stretchable and electrically insulating thermal elastomer composite is demonstrated, which can be easily processed for device fabrication. A liquid alloy is embedded as liquid droplet fillers in an elastomer matrix to achieve softness and stretchability. This new elastomer composite is expected useful to enhance thermal response or efficiency of soft and stretchable thermal devices or systems. The thermal elastomer composites demonstrate advantages such as thermal interface and packaging layers with thermal shrink films in transient and steady-state cases and a stretchable temperature sensor. PMID:26671673

Cephalopod-inspired design of electro-mechano-chemically responsive elastomers for on-demand fluorescent patterning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Qiming; Gossweiler, Gregory R.; Craig, Stephen L.; Zhao, Xuanhe

2014-09-01

Cephalopods can display dazzling patterns of colours by selectively contracting muscles to reversibly activate chromatophores - pigment-containing cells under their skins. Inspired by this novel colouring strategy found in nature, we design an electro-mechano-chemically responsive elastomer system that can exhibit a wide variety of fluorescent patterns under the control of electric fields. We covalently couple a stretchable elastomer with mechanochromic molecules, which emit strong fluorescent signals if sufficiently deformed. We then use electric fields to induce various patterns of large deformation on the elastomer surface, which displays versatile fluorescent patterns including lines, circles and letters on demand. Theoretical models are further constructed to predict the electrically induced fluorescent patterns and to guide the design of this class of elastomers and devices. The material and method open promising avenues for creating flexible devices in soft/wet environments that combine deformation, colorimetric and fluorescent response with topological and chemical changes in response to a single remote signal.

Blended Polyurethane and Tropoelastin as a Novel Class of Biologically Interactive Elastomer

PubMed Central

Wise, Steven G.; Liu, Hongjuan; Yeo, Giselle C.; Michael, Praveesuda L.; Chan, Alex H.P.; Ngo, Alan K.Y.; Bilek, Marcela M.M.; Bao, Shisan

2016-01-01

Polyurethanes are versatile elastomers but suffer from biological limitations such as poor control over cell attachment and the associated disadvantages of increased fibrosis. We address this problem by presenting a novel strategy that retains elasticity while modulating biological performance. We describe a new biomaterial that comprises a blend of synthetic and natural elastomers: the biostable polyurethane Elast-Eon and the recombinant human tropoelastin protein. We demonstrate that the hybrid constructs yield a class of coblended elastomers with unique physical properties. Hybrid constructs displayed higher elasticity and linear stress–strain responses over more than threefold strain. The hybrid materials showed increased overall porosity and swelling in comparison to polyurethane alone, facilitating enhanced cellular interactions. In vitro, human dermal fibroblasts showed enhanced proliferation, while in vivo, following subcutaneous implantation in mice, hybrid scaffolds displayed a reduced fibrotic response and tunable degradation rate. To our knowledge, this is the first example of a blend of synthetic and natural elastomers and is a promising approach for generating tailored bioactive scaffolds for tissue repair. PMID:26857114

Stability of 10 mg/mL cefuroxime solution for intracameral injection in commonly used polypropylene syringes and new ready-to-use cyclic olefin copolymer sterile vials using the LC-UV stability-indicating method.

PubMed

Feutry, Frédéric; Simon, Nicolas; Genay, Stéphanie; Lannoy, Damien; Barthélémy, Christine; Décaudin, Bertrand; Labalette, Pierre; Odou, Pascal

2016-01-01

Injecting intracameral cefuroxime has been found beneficial in reducing the risk of postoperative endophthalmitis but its use has been limited through a lack of approved marketing and of ready-to-use single-units as well as the problem of aseptic compounding. Our aim was to assess a new automated primary packaging system which should ensure a higher level of sterility, thanks to its closed, sterile, ready-to-use polymer vial called "Crystal® vial". The chemical stability of a 10 mg/mL cefuroxime solution was compared in 1 mL Crystal® vials and 1 mL Luer-lock polypropylene syringes (actual reference) to eliminate any potential and specific interactions with its cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) body and elastomer stopper. Cefuroxime solution was introduced into vials and syringes and stored at -20 °C, +5 °C and +25°C/60% Relative Humidity. Cefuroxime concentration and the relative amount of the main degradation product (descarbamoyl-cefuroxime) were both determined by an HPLC/UV method indicating stability. Solutions were considered steady if the concentration remained at over 90% of the initial value. In the adapted storage conditions, the evolution of osmolality, pH and sterility was assessed. Stability profiles were identical between vials and syringes in all storage and temperature conditions. The solution was stable (cefuroxime concentration, pH and osmolality) and still sterile for 365 days at -20°C. The concentration fell below 90% after 21 days at +5 °C and after 16 h at +25°C/60%s relative humidity. The COC and thermoplastic elastomer of the vials had no impact on the degradation process confirming its possible use for a ready-to-use cefuroxime solution single-unit dose.

Highly Stretchable and UV Curable Elastomers for Digital Light Processing Based 3D Printing.

PubMed

Patel, Dinesh K; Sakhaei, Amir Hosein; Layani, Michael; Zhang, Biao; Ge, Qi; Magdassi, Shlomo

2017-04-01

Stretchable UV-curable (SUV) elastomers can be stretched by up to 1100% and are suitable for digital-light-processing (DLP)-based 3D-printing technology. DLP printing of these SUV elastomers enables the direct creation of highly deformable complex 3D hollow structures such as balloons, soft actuators, grippers, and buckyball electronical switches. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Development of procedures for calculating stiffness and damping properties of elastomers in engineering applications. Part 1: Verification of basic methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chiang, T.; Tessarzik, J. M.; Badgley, R. H.

1972-01-01

The primary aim of this investigation was verification of basic methods which are to be used in cataloging elastomer dynamic properties (stiffness and damping) in terms of viscoelastic model constants. These constants may then be used to predict dynamic properties for general elastomer shapes and operating conditions, thereby permitting optimum application of elastomers as energy absorption and/or energy storage devices in the control of vibrations in a broad variety of applications. The efforts reported involved: (1) literature search; (2) the design, fabrication and use of a test rig for obtaining elastomer dynamic test data over a wide range of frequencies, amplitudes, and preloads; and (3) the reduction of the test data, by means of a selected three-element elastomer model and specialized curve fitting techniques, to material properties. Material constants thus obtained have been used to calculate stiffness and damping for comparison with measured test data. These comparisons are excellent for a number of test conditions and only fair to poor for others. The results confirm the validity of the basic approach of the overall program and the mechanics of the cataloging procedure, and at the same time suggest areas in which refinements should be made.

Thermal Degradation Studies of Polyurethane/POSS Nanohybrid Elastomers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lewicki, J P; Pielichowski, K; TremblotDeLaCroix, P

2010-03-05

Reported here is the synthesis of a series of Polyurethane/POSS nanohybrid elastomers, the characterization of their thermal stability and degradation behavior at elevated temperatures using a combination of Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Thermal Volatilization Analysis (TVA). A series of PU elastomers systems have been formulated incorporating varying levels of 1,2-propanediol-heptaisobutyl-POSS (PHIPOSS) as a chain extender unit, replacing butane diol. The bulk thermal stability of the nanohybrid systems has been characterized using TGA. Results indicate that covalent incorporation of POSS into the PU elastomer network increase the non-oxidative thermal stability of the systems. TVA analysis of the thermal degradation ofmore » the POSS/PU hybrid elastomers have demonstrated that the hybrid systems are indeed more thermally stable when compared to the unmodified PU matrix; evolving significantly reduced levels of volatile degradation products and exhibiting a {approx}30 C increase in onset degradation temperature. Furthermore, characterization of the distribution of degradation products from both unmodified and hybrid systems indicate that the inclusion of POSS in the PU network is directly influencing the degradation pathways of both the soft and hard block components of the elastomers: The POSS/PU hybrid systems show reduced levels of CO, CO2, water and increased levels of THF as products of thermal degradation.« less

Adhesion promoters for large scale fabrication of dielectric elastomer stack transducers (DESTs) made of pre-fabricated dielectric films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grotepaß, T.; Förster-Zügel, F.; Mößinger, H.; Schlaak, H. F.

2015-04-01

Multilayer dielectric elastomer stack transducers (DESTs) are a promising new transducer technology with many applications in different industry sectors, like medical devices, human-machine-interaction, etc. Stacked dielectric elastomer transducers show larger thickness contraction driven by lower voltages than transducers made from a single dielectric layer. Traditionally multilayered DESTs are produced by repeatedly cross-linking a liquid elastomeric pre-polymer into the required shape. Our recent research focusses on a novel fabrication method for large scale stack transducers with a surface area over 200 x 300 mm by processing pre-fabricated elastomeric thin films of less than 50 μm thicknesses. The thin films are provided as two- or three-layer composites, where the elastomer is sandwiched between one or two sacrificial liners. Separating the elastomeric film from the residual layers and assembling them into dielectric elastomer stack transducers poses many challenges concerning adhesion, since the dielectric film merely separates from the liner if the adhesive forces between them are overcome. Conversely, during the assembly of a dielectric elastomer stack transducer, adhesive forces have to be established between two elastomeric layers or between the dielectric and the electrode layer. The very low Young's modulus of at least one adhesion partner requires suitable means of increasing the adhesive forces between the different adhesive layers of a dielectric elastomer stack transducer to prevent a delamination of the transducer during its lifetime. This work evaluates different surface activation treatments - corona, low-pressure plasma and UV-light - and their applicability in the production of large scale DESTs made from pre-fabricated elastomeric films.

Fluoridated elastomers: effect on the microbiology of plaque.

PubMed

Benson, Philip E; Douglas, C W Ian; Martin, Michael V

2004-09-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of fluoridated elastomeric ligatures on the microbiology of local dental plaque in vivo. This randomized, prospective, longitudinal, clinical trial had a split-mouth crossover design. The subjects were 30 patients at the beginning of their treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances in the orthodontic departments of the Liverpool and the Sheffield dental hospitals in the United Kingdom. The study consisted of 2 experimental periods of 6 weeks with a washout period between. Fluoridated elastomers were randomly allocated at the first visit to be placed around brackets on tooth numbers 12, 11, 33 or 22, 21, 43. Nonfluoridated elastomers were placed on the contralateral teeth. Standard nonantibacterial fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash were supplied. After 6 weeks (visit 2), the elastomers were removed, placed in transport media, and plated on agar within 2 hours. Nonfluoridated elastomers were placed on all brackets for 1 visit to allow for a washout period. At visit 3, fluoridated elastomers were placed on the teeth contralateral to those that received them at visit 1. At visit 4, the procedures at visit 2 were repeated. Samples were collected on visits 2 and 4. A logistic regression was performed, with the presence or absence of streptococcal or anaerobic growth as the dependent variable. A mixed-effects analysis of variance was carried out with the percentage of streptococcal or anaerobic bacterial count as the dependent variable. The only significant independent variables were the subject variable (P =<.001) for the percentage of streptococcal and anaerobic bacterial count and the visit variable for the percentage of streptococcal count (P =<.001). The use of fluoridated or nonfluoridated elastomers was not significant for percentage of either streptococcal (P =.288) or anaerobic count (P =.230). Fluoridated elastomers are not effective at reducing local streptococcal or anaerobic bacterial growth after a clinically relevant time in the mouth.

NITRILE ELASTOMER-NYLON LAMINATES INCLUDING BARRIER FILMS.

DTIC Science & Technology

ADHESIVES, *NYLON, *NITRILE RUBBER , LAMINATES, LAMINATES, FILMS, TEXTILES, RUBBER COATINGS, BUTADIENES, ACRYLONITRILE POLYMERS, BONDING, ADHESION... DEGRADATION , MOISTUREPROOFING, PHENOLIC PLASTICS, HALOGENATED HYDROCARBONS, ISOCYANATES, CURING AGENTS, ELASTOMERS.

The Response of Starch/gelatin/glycerin Aqueous Electrorheological Elastomer to Applied Electric Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Lingxiang; Zhao, Xiaopeng

The aqueous ER elastomers, containing crude organic starch particles which dispersed in gelatin/glycerin/water matrix, were prepared with or without the applied DC electric field. The responses of the composite systems to the electric field were tested by the compression modulus and resistance of the elastomers. The result shows that they are enhanced and controlled evidently under an applied DC electric field. The strongest responses appear at 25% weight fraction of starch. In addition, the increment modulus of the elastomer increases with the strength of the applied field within 0.5~1.5 kV/mm, while after the field is stronger than 1.5 kV/mm it doesn't increase with field, appearing "saturation".

Long-term aging of elastomers: Chemical stress relaxation of fluorosilicone rubber and other studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kalfayan, S. H.; Mazzeo, A. A.; Silver, R. H.

1971-01-01

Aerospace applications of elastomers are considered, including: propellant binders, bladder materials for liquid propellant expulsion systems, and fuel tank sealants for high-speed aircraft. A comprehensive molecular theory for mechanical properties of these materials has been developed but has only been tested experimentally in cases where chemical degradation processes are excluded. Hence, a study is being conducted to ascertain the nature, extent, and rate of chemical changes that take place in some elastomers of interest. Chemical changes that may take place in the fluorosilicone elastomer, LS 420, which is regarded as a fuel and high-temperature-resistant rubber are investigated. The kinetic analysis of the chemical stress relaxation and gel permeation chromatography studies comprise the major portion of the report.

Development of soft robots using dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godaba, Hareesh; Wang, Yuzhe; Cao, Jiawei; Zhu, Jian

2016-04-01

Soft robots are gaining in popularity due to their unique attributes such as low weight, compliance, flexibility and diverse range in motion types. This paper illustrates soft robots and actuators which are developed using dielectric elastomer. These developments include a jellyfish robot, a worm like robot and artificial muscle actuators for jaw movement in a robotic skull. The jellyfish robot which employs a bulged dielectric elastomer membrane has been demonstrated too generate thrust and buoyant forces and can move effectively in water. The artificial muscle for jaw movement employs a pure shear configuration and has been shown to closely mimic the jaw motion while chewing or singing a song. Thee inchworm robot, powered by dielectric elastomer actuator can demonstrate stable movement in one-direction.

Development of energy-harvesting system using deformation of magnetic elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shinoda, Hayato; Tsumori, Fujio

2018-06-01

In this paper, we propose a power generation method using the deformation of a magnetic elastomer for vibration energy harvesting. The magnetic flux lines in the structure of the magnetic elastomer could be markedly changed if the properly designed structure was expanded and contracted in a static magnetic field. We set a coil on the magnetic elastomer to generate electricity by capturing this change in magnetic flux flow. We fabricated a centimeter-scale device and demonstrated that it generated 10.5 mV of maximum voltage by 10 Hz vibration. We also simulated the change in the magnetic flux flow using finite element analysis, and compared the result with the experimental data. Furthermore, we evaluated the power generation of a miniaturized device.

Characterization, fabrication, and analysis of soft dielectric elastomer actuators capable of complex 3D deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, William

Inspired by nature, the development of soft actuators has drawn large attention to provide higher flexibility and allow adaptation to more complex environment. This thesis is focused on utilizing electroactive polymers as active materials to develop soft planar dielectric elastomer actuators capable of complex 3D deformation. The potential applications of such soft actuators are in flexible robotic arms and grippers, morphing structures and flapping wings for micro aerial vehicles. The embraces design for a freestanding actuator utilizes the constrained deformation imposed by surface stiffeners on an electroactive membrane to avert the requirement of membrane pre-stretch and the supporting frames. The proposed design increases the overall actuator flexibility and degrees-of-freedom. Actuator design, fabrication, and performance are presented for different arrangement of stiffeners. Digital images correlation technique were utilized to evaluate the in-plane finite strain components, in order to elucidate the role of the stiffeners in controlling the three dimensional deformation. It was found that a key controlling factor was the localized deformation near the stiffeners, while the rest of the membrane would follow through. A detailed finite element modeling framework was developed with a user-material subroutine, built into the ABAQUS commercial finite element package. An experimentally calibrated Neo-Hookean based material model that coupled the applied electrical field to the actuator mechanical deformation was employed. The numerical model was used to optimize different geometrical features, electrode layup and stacking sequence of actuators. It was found that by splitting the stiffeners into finer segments, the force-stroke characteristics of actuator were able to be adjusted with stiffener configuration, while keeping the overall bending stiffness. The efficacy of actuators could also be greatly improved by increasing the stiffener periodicity. The developed framework would aid in designing and optimizing the dielectric elastomer actuator configurations for 3D prescribed deformation configuration. Finally, inspired by the membrane textures of bat wings, a study of utilizing fiber reinforcement on dielectric elastomer actuators were conducted for the mechanical and the coupled electromechanical characteristics. Woven fibers were employed on the surface of actuator membrane with different pre-deformed configurations. Experimentally, actuator stiffness changes were measured for up to four orders of magnitude. The orientation of embedded fibers controlled the level and the triggered phase of stiffness changes. A trade-off between the actuator stiffness and stroke could be controlled during the fabrication stage by the fiber orientation and the prestretch level of the base elastomer membrane. A simplified model using small-strain composite laminate theory was developed and accurately predicted the composite actuator stiffness. Additionally, compliant edge stiffeners were found had to present a marked overall effect on actuator electromechanical response. The developed simplified analytical solutions using Timoshenko-bimaterial laminate solution and composite laminate theory, as well as the developed finite element framework can be utilized in addressing more complex 3D deformation patterns and their electromechanical response.

Elastomers for Tracked Vehicles: 1980-1997 Program to Improve Durability of Rubber Tank Pads for Army Tracked Vehicles

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

10. Vanderbilt RT. The Vanderbilt rubber handbook . Babbit RO, editor. Norwalk (CT): RT Vanderbilt Company; 1990. 11. Loo CT. High temperature...Elastomers for Tracked Vehicles: 1980–1997 Program to Improve Durability of Rubber Tank Pads for Army Tracked Vehicles by David P Flanagan...Proving Ground, MD 21005-5069 ARL-TR-7331 June 2015 Elastomers for Tracked Vehicles: 1980–1997 Program to Improve Durability of Rubber

Nonlinear viscoelastic response of highly filled elastomers under multiaxial finite deformation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peng, Steven T. J.; Landel, Robert F.

1990-01-01

A biaxial tester was used to obtain precise biaxial stress responses of highly filled, high strain capability elastomers. Stress-relaxation experiments show that the time-dependent part of the relaxation response can be reasonably approximated by a function which is strain and biaxiality independent. Thus, isochronal data from the stress-relaxation curves can be used to determine the stored energy density function. The complex behavior of the elastomers under biaxial deformation may be caused by dewetting.

Self-healing elastomer system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sottos, Nancy R. (Inventor); Keller, Michael W. (Inventor); White, Scott R. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

A composite material includes an elastomer matrix, a set of first capsules containing a polymerizer, and a set of second capsules containing a corresponding activator for the polymerizer. The polymerizer may be a polymerizer for an elastomer. The composite material may be prepared by combining a first set of capsules containing a polymerizer, a second set of capsules containing a corresponding activator for the polymerizer, and a matrix precursor, and then solidifying the matrix precursor to form an elastomeric matrix.

Deformable silicone grating fabricated with a photo-imprinted polymer mold

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yamada, Itsunari, E-mail: yamada.i@e.usp.ac.jp; Nishii, Junji; Saito, Mitsunori

A tunable transmission grating was fabricated by molding a silicone elastomer (polydimethylsiloxane). Its optical characteristics were then evaluated during compression. For fabrication, a glass plate with a photoimprinted polymer grating film was used as a mold. Both the grating period and diffraction transmittance of the molded elastomer were functions of the compressive stress. The grating period changed from 3.02 to 2.86 μm during compressing the elastomer in the direction perpendicular to the grooves.

Molecular Dynamics and Morphology of High Performance Elastomers and Fibers by Solid State NMR

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-30

Distribution Unlimited UU UU UU UU 30-06-2016 1-Sep-2015 31-May-2016 Final Report: Molecular Dynamics and Morphology of High - Performance Elastomers and...non peer-reviewed journals: Final Report: Molecular Dynamics and Morphology of High -Performance Elastomers and Fibers by Solid-State NMR Report Title...Kanbargi 0.50 0.50 1 PERCENT_SUPPORTEDNAME FTE Equivalent: Total Number: Sub Contractors (DD882) Names of Faculty Supported Names of Under Graduate

Mechanical Behavior and Fatigue Studies of Rubber Components in Army Tracked Vehicles

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-08-13

strategy moved to glassy polymers (Bouvard et al., 2010) – Current efforts to apply ISV modeling strategy to elastomers • Fatigue approach – Researchers...metals at CAVS – Researchers have typically only investigated long crack for elastomers (Mars and Fatemi, 2003; Busfield et al., 2002; Chou et al...2007) – Current efforts are to add MSC/PSC, INC to fatigue modeling of elastomers and incorporate microstructure 13 August 2010 2 Overview 8/13/2010 3

A micro-macro constitutive model for finite-deformation viscoelasticity of elastomers with nonlinear viscosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Jianyou; Jiang, Liying; Khayat, Roger E.

2018-01-01

Elastomers are known to exhibit viscoelastic behavior under deformation, which is linked to the diffusion processes of the highly mobile and flexible polymer chains. Inspired by the theories of polymer dynamics, a micro-macro constitutive model is developed to study the viscoelastic behaviors and the relaxation process of elastomeric materials under large deformation, in which the material parameters all have a microscopic foundation or a microstructural justification. The proposed model incorporates the nonlinear material viscosity into the continuum finite-deformation viscoelasticity theories which represent the polymer networks of elastomers with an elastic ground network and a few viscous subnetworks. The developed modeling framework is capable of adopting most of strain energy density functions for hyperelastic materials and thermodynamics evolution laws of viscoelastic solids. The modeling capacity of the framework is outlined by comparing the simulation results with the experimental data of three commonly used elastomeric materials, namely, VHB4910, HNBR50 and carbon black (CB) filled elastomers. The comparison shows that the stress responses and some typical behaviors of filled and unfilled elastomers can be quantitatively predicted by the model with suitable strain energy density functions. Particularly, the strain-softening effect of elastomers could be explained by the deformation-dependent (nonlinear) viscosity of the polymer chains. The presented modeling framework is expected to be useful as a modeling platform for further study on the performance of different type of elastomeric materials.

Rubber contact mechanics: adhesion, friction and leakage of seals.

PubMed

Tiwari, A; Dorogin, L; Tahir, M; Stöckelhuber, K W; Heinrich, G; Espallargas, N; Persson, B N J

2017-12-13

We study the adhesion, friction and leak rate of seals for four different elastomers: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR), Ethylene Propylene Diene (EPDM), Polyepichlorohydrin (GECO) and Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Adhesion between smooth clean glass balls and all the elastomers is studied both in the dry state and in water. In water, adhesion is observed for the NBR and PDMS elastomers, but not for the EPDM and GECO elastomers, which we attribute to the differences in surface energy and dewetting. The leakage of water is studied with rubber square-ring seals squeezed against sandblasted glass surfaces. Here we observe a strongly non-linear dependence of the leak rate on the water pressure ΔP for the elastomers exhibiting adhesion in water, while the leak rate depends nearly linearly on ΔP for the other elastomers. We attribute the non-linearity to some adhesion-related phenomena, such as dewetting or the (time-dependent) formation of gas bubbles, which blocks fluid flow channels. Finally, rubber friction is studied at low sliding speeds using smooth glass and sandblasted glass as substrates, both in the dry state and in water. The measured friction coefficients are compared to theory, and the origin of the frictional shear stress acting in the area of real contact is discussed. The NBR rubber, which exhibits the strongest adhesion both in the dry state and in water, also shows the highest friction both in the dry state and in water.

Numerical study on the electromechanical behavior of dielectric elastomer with the influence of surrounding medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia; Lu

2016-01-01

The considerable electric-induced shape change, together with the attributes of lightweight, high efficiency, and inexpensive cost, makes dielectric elastomer, a promising soft active material for the realization of actuators in broad applications. Although, a number of prototype devices have been demonstrated in the past few years, the further development of this technology necessitates adequate analytical and numerical tools. Especially, previous theoretical studies always neglect the influence of surrounding medium. Due to the large deformation and nonlinear equations of states involved in dielectric elastomer, finite element method (FEM) is anticipated; however, the few available formulations employ homemade codes, which are inconvenient to implement. The aim of this work is to present a numerical approach with the commercial FEM package COMSOL to investigate the nonlinear response of dielectric elastomer under electric stimulation. The influence of surrounding free space on the electric field is analyzed and the corresponding electric force is taken into account through an electric surface traction on the circumstances edge. By employing Maxwell stress tensor as actuation pressure, the mechanical and electric governing equations for dielectric elastomer are coupled, and then solved simultaneously with the Gent model of stain energy to derive the electric induced large deformation as well as the electromechanical instability. The finite element implementation presented here may provide a powerful computational tool to help design and optimize the engineering applications of dielectric elastomer.

Fracto-mechanoluminescent light emission of EuD4TEA-PDMS composites subjected to high strain-rate compressive loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryu, Donghyeon; Castaño, Nicolas; Bhakta, Raj; Kimberley, Jamie

2017-08-01

The objective of this study is to understand light emission characteristics of fracto-mechanoluminescent (FML) europium tetrakis(dibenzoylmethide)-triethylammonium (EuD4TEA) crystals under high strain-rate compressive loading. As a sensing material that can play a pivotal role for the self-powered impact sensor technology, it is important to understand transformative light emission characteristics of the FML EuD4TEA crystals under high strain-rate compressive loading. First, EuD4TEA crystals were synthesized and embedded into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer to fabricate EuD4TEA-PDMS composite test specimens. Second, the prepared EuD4TEA-PDMS composites were tested using the modified Kolsky bar setup equipped with a high-speed camera. Third, FML light emission was captured to yield 12 bit grayscale video footage, which was processed to quantify the FML light emission. Finally, quantitative parameters were generated by taking into account pixel values and population of pixels of the 12 bit grayscale images to represent FML light intensity. The FML light intensity was correlated with high strain-rate compressive strain and strain rate to understand the FML light emission characteristics under high strain-rate compressive loading that can result from impact occurrences.

Contact lines on silicone elastomers promote contamination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hourlier-Fargette, Aurelie; Antkowiak, Arnaud; Neukirch, Sebastien

2017-11-01

Silicone elastomers are used in contact with aqueous liquids in a large range of applications. Due to numerous advantages such as its flexibility, optical transparency, or gas permeability, polydimethylsiloxane is widely spread in rapid prototyping for microfluidics or elastocapillarity experiments. However, silicone elastomers are known to contain a small fraction of uncrosslinked low-molecular-weight oligomers, the effects of which are not completely understood. We show that in various setups involving an air-water-silicone elastomer contact line, a capillarity-induced extraction of uncrosslinked oligomers occurs, leading to a contamination of water-air interfaces. We investigate the case of a static air-water-PDMS contact line, before focusing on moving contact lines. A water droplet sliding down on a PDMS inclined plane or an air bubble rising on an immersed PDMS plane exhibits two successive speed regimes: the second regime is reached only when a monolayer of oligomers completely covers the water-air interface. These experiments involve processes occurring at the polymer network scale that have significant macroscopic consequences, and therefore provide a simple test to evaluate the presence of uncrosslinked oligomers in an elastomer sample.

Patterning nonisometric origami in nematic elastomer sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plucinsky, Paul; Kowalski, Benjamin A.; White, Timothy J.; Bhattacharya, Kaushik

Nematic elastomers dramatically change their shape in response to diverse stimuli including light and heat. In this paper, we provide a systematic framework for the design of complex three dimensional shapes through the actuation of heterogeneously patterned nematic elastomer sheets. These sheets are composed of \\textit{nonisometric origami} building blocks which, when appropriately linked together, can actuate into a diverse array of three dimensional faceted shapes. We demonstrate both theoretically and experimentally that: 1) the nonisometric origami building blocks actuate in the predicted manner, 2) the integration of multiple building blocks leads to complex multi-stable, yet predictable, shapes, 3) we can bias the actuation experimentally to obtain a desired complex shape amongst the multi-stable shapes. We then show that this experimentally realized functionality enables a rich possible design landscape for actuation using nematic elastomers. We highlight this landscape through theoretical examples, which utilize large arrays of these building blocks to realize a desired three dimensional origami shape. In combination, these results amount to an engineering design principle, which we hope will provide a template for the application of nematic elastomers to emerging technologies.

Citric-Acid-Derived Photo-cross-Linked Biodegradable Elastomers

PubMed Central

Gyawali, Dipendra; Tran, Richard T.; Guleserian, Kristine J.; Tang, Liping; Yang, Jian

2010-01-01

Citric-acid-derived thermally cross-linked biodegradable elastomers (CABEs) have recently received significant attention in various biomedical applications, including tissue-engineering orthopedic devices, bioimaging and implant coatings. However, citric-acid-derived photo-cross-linked biodegradable elastomers are rarely reported. Herein, we report a novel photo-cross-linked biodegradable elastomer, referred to as poly(octamethylene maleate citrate) (POMC), which preserves pendant hydroxyl and carboxylic functionalities after cross-linking for the potential conjugation of biologically active molecules. POMC is a low-molecular-mass pre-polymer with a molecular mass average between 701 and 1291 Da. POMC networks are soft and elastic with an initial modulus of 0.07 to 1.3 MPa and an elongation at break between 38 and 382%. FT-IR–ATR results confirmed the successful surface immobilization of type-I collagen onto POMC films, which enhanced in vitro cellular attachment and proliferation. Photo-polymerized POMC films implanted subcutaneously into Sprague–Dawley rats demonstrated minimal in vivo inflammatory responses. The development of POMC enriches the family of citric-acid-derived biodegradable elastomers and expands the available biodegradable polymers for versatile needs in biomedical applications. PMID:20557687

Functional Supramolecular Polymers*

PubMed Central

Aida, T.; Meijer, E.W.; Stupp, S.I.

2012-01-01

Supramolecular polymers can be random and entangled coils with the mechanical properties of plastics and elastomers, but with great capacity for processability, recycling, and self-healing due to their reversible monomer-to-polymer transitions. At the other extreme, supramolecular polymers can be formed by self-assembly among designed subunits to yield shape-persistent and highly ordered filaments. The use of strong and directional interactions among molecular subunits can achieve not only rich dynamic behavior but also high degrees of internal order that are not known in ordinary polymers. They can resemble, for example, the ordered and dynamic one-dimensional supramolecular assemblies of the cell cytoskeleton, and possess useful biological and electronic functions. PMID:22344437

Life prediction of expulsion bladders through fatigue test and fold strain analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chu, H. N.; Unterberg, W.

1972-01-01

Cycle life data are presented in terms of true maximum strain for four metals, two plastics, and two elastomers. The Coffin-Manson fatigue theory was applied for metals and plastics, and cut-growth fatigue theory for elastomers. The data are based on measurements made at room and elevated temperatures. It was found that double folds give rise to far severer folding strains than do simple folds. It was also found that, except for the elastomers, all the bladder materials develop surface cracks due to double folds after only one cycle. The findings indicate that metals, which are bets for premeation resistance, are worst for fatigue resistance, and vice versa for elastomers. The intermediate plastics were found to be unsatisfactory for both permeation and fatigue resistance for missions of extended duration.

Experimental study on behaviors of dielectric elastomer based on acrylonitrile butadiene rubber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Kuangjun; Chuc, Nguyen Huu; Kwon, Hyeok Yong; Phuc, Vuong Hong; Koo, Jachoon; Lee, Youngkwan; Nam, Jaedo; Choi, Hyouk Ryeol

2010-04-01

Previously, the dielectric elastomer based on Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR), called synthetic elastomer has been reported by our group. It has the advantages that its characteristics can be modified according to the requirements of performances, and thus, it is applicable to a wide variety of applications. In this paper, we address the effects of additives and vulcanization conditions on the overall performance of synthetic elastomer. In the present work, factors to have effects on the performances are extracted, e.g additives such as dioctyl phthalate (DOP), barium titanium dioxide (BaTiO3) and vulcanization conditions such as dicumyl peroxide (DCP), cross-linking times. Also, it is described how the performances can be optimized by using DOE (Design of Experiments) technique and experimental results are analyzed by ANOVA (Analysis of variance).

Modification of Silicone Elastomer Surfaces with Zwitterionic Polymers: Short-Term Fouling Resistance and Triggered Biofouling Release.

PubMed

Shivapooja, Phanindhar; Yu, Qian; Orihuela, Beatriz; Mays, Robin; Rittschof, Daniel; Genzer, Jan; López, Gabriel P

2015-11-25

We present a method for dual-mode-management of biofouling by modifying surface of silicone elastomers with zwitterionic polymeric grafts. Poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) was grafted from poly(vinylmethylsiloxane) elastomer substrates using thiol-ene click chemistry and surface-initiated, controlled radical polymerization. These surfaces exhibited both fouling resistance and triggered fouling-release functionality. The zwitterionic polymers exhibited fouling resistance over short-term (∼hours) exposure to bacteria and barnacle cyprids. The biofilms that eventually accumulated over prolonged-exposure (∼days) were easily detached by applying mechanical strain to the elastomer substrate. Such dual-functional surfaces may be useful in developing environmentally and biologically friendly coatings for biofouling management on marine, industrial, and biomedical equipment because they can obviate the use of toxic compounds.

Polyimide Film of Increased Tear Strength

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

St. Clair, A. K.; Hinkley, J. A.; Ezzell, S. A.

1986-01-01

High-temperature linear aromatic polyimide with improved resistance to tearing made by new process that incorporates elastomer into polyimide. Linear aromatic condensation polyimides are materials of prime choice for use as films and coatings on advanced spacecraft and aircraft where durability at temperatures in range of 200 to 300 degree C required. Elastomer-containing polyimide film with improved toughness proves useful for applications where resistance to tearing and long-term thermal stability necessary. Desired resistance to tearing achieved by careful control of amount and chemical composition of added elastomer.

The Design, Development, and Evaluation of a Differential Pressure Gauge Directional Wave Monitor.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-10-01

Figure III-4). The isolation diaphragms are made of 13 mil DuPont Fairprene elastomer mounted on an acrylic housing. Fairpreneo is a durable nylon...material, coated with neoprene, that is flexible perpendicular to the plane of the fabric. The elastomer is sealed to its acrylic housing 4 by a 90-10...copper-nickel alloy ring. The 90-10 alloy was picked for its anti-fouling properties. Bio-fouling across the diaphragm ring could puncture the elastomer

Development of dielectric elastomer nanocomposites as stretchable actuating materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yu; Sun, L. Z.

2017-10-01

Dielectric elastomer nanocomposites (DENCs) filled with multi-walled carbon nanotubes are developed. The electromechanical responses of DENCs to applied electric fields are investigated through laser Doppler vibrometry. It is found that a small amount of carbon nanotube fillers can effectively enhance the electromechanical performance of DENCs. The enhanced electromechanical properties have shown not only that the desired thickness strain can be achieved with reduced required electric fields but also that significantly large thickness strain can be obtained with any electric fields compared to pristine dielectric elastomers.

Centrifugal forming and mechanical properties of silicone-based elastomers for soft robotic actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulkarni, Parth

This thesis describes the centrifugal forming and resulting mechanical properties of silicone-based elastomers for the manufacture of soft robotic actuators. This process is effective at removing bubbles that get entrapped within 3D-printed, enclosed molds. Conventional methods for rapid prototyping of soft robotic actuators to remove entrapped bubbles typically involve degassing under vacuum, with open-faced molds that limit the layout of formed parts to raised 2D geometries. As the functionality and complexity of soft robots increase, there is a need to mold complete 3D structures with controlled thicknesses or curvatures on multiples surfaces. In addition, characterization of the mechanical properties of common elastomers for these soft robots has lagged the development of new designs. As such, relationships between resulting material properties and processing parameters are virtually non-existent. One of the goals of this thesis is to provide guidelines and physical insights to relate the design, processing conditions, and resulting properties of soft robotic components to each other. Centrifugal forming with accelerations on the order of 100 g's is capable of forming bubble-free, true 3D components for soft robotic actuators, and resulting demonstrations in this work include an aquatic locomotor, soft gripper, and an actuator that straightens when pressurized. Finally, this work shows that the measured mechanical properties of 3D geometries fabricated within enclosed molds through centrifugal forming possess comparable mechanical properties to vacuumed materials formed from open-faced molds with raised 2D features.

Impact-Induced Glass Transition in Elastomeric Coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roland, C. M.

2013-03-01

When an elastomer layer is applied to the front surface of steel, the resistance to penetration by hard projectiles increases significantly. It is not obvious why a soft polymer should affect this property of metals, and most rubbers do not. However, we have found that a few are very effective; the requirement is that the polymer undergo a viscoelastic phase transition upon impact. This means that the frequency of its segmental dynamics correspond to the impact frequency. The latter is estimated as the ratio of the projectile velocity to the coating thickness, and is on the order of 105 s-1 for the experiments herein. Our data and a non-linear dynamics finite-element analysis offer support for this resonance condition as a primary mechanism underlying the penetration-resistance of elastomer-coated metal substrates. The impact-induced phase transition causes large energy absorption, decreasing the kinetic energy of the impacting projectile. However, this energy absorption only accounts for about half the enhanced stopping power of the elastomer/steel bilayer. An additional mechanism is lateral spreading of the impact force, resulting from the transient hardening of the elastomeric during its transition to the glassy state - the modulus of the rubber increases 1000-fold over a time period of microseconds. The penetration-resistance is a very nonlinear function of the coating thickness. Moreover, tests on various metals show that hardness is the principal substrate parameter controlling the contribution of the coating. This work was supported by the Office of Naval Research.

Evolution of real contact area under shear and the value of static friction of soft materials.

PubMed

Sahli, R; Pallares, G; Ducottet, C; Ben Ali, I E; Al Akhrass, S; Guibert, M; Scheibert, J

2018-01-16

The frictional properties of a rough contact interface are controlled by its area of real contact, the dynamical variations of which underlie our modern understanding of the ubiquitous rate-and-state friction law. In particular, the real contact area is proportional to the normal load, slowly increases at rest through aging, and drops at slip inception. Here, through direct measurements on various contacts involving elastomers or human fingertips, we show that the real contact area also decreases under shear, with reductions as large as 30[Formula: see text], starting well before macroscopic sliding. All data are captured by a single reduction law enabling excellent predictions of the static friction force. In elastomers, the area-reduction rate of individual contacts obeys a scaling law valid from micrometer-sized junctions in rough contacts to millimeter-sized smooth sphere/plane contacts. For the class of soft materials used here, our results should motivate first-order improvements of current contact mechanics models and prompt reinterpretation of the rate-and-state parameters.

Tunable actuation of dielectric elastomer by electromechanical loading rates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Guorui; Zhang, Mingqi; Chen, Xiangping; Yang, Xuxu; Wong, Tuck-Whye; Li, Tiefeng; Huang, Zhilong

2017-10-01

Dielectric elastomer (DE) membranes are able to self-deform with the application of an electric field through the thickness direction. In comparison to conventional rigid counterparts, soft actuators using DE provide a variety of advantages such as high compliance, low noise, and light weight. As one of the challenges in the development of DE actuating devices, tuning the electromechanical actuating behavior is crucial in order to achieve demanded loading paths and to avoid electromechanical failures. In this paper, our experimental results show that the electromechanical loading conditions affect the actuating behaviors of the DE. The electrical actuating force can be tuned by 29.4% with the control of the electrical charging rate. In addition, controllable actuations have been investigated by the mechanical model in manipulating the electromechanical loading rate. The calculated results agree well with the experimental data. Lastly, it is believed that the mechanisms of controlling the electromechanical loading rate may serve as a guide for the design of DE devices and high performance soft robots in the near future.

Permanent magnets as biasing mechanism for improving the performance of circular dielectric elastomer out-of-plane actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loew, P.; Rizzello, G.; Seelecke, S.

2017-04-01

Dielectric Elastomers (DE) represent an attractive technology for the realization of mechatronic actuators, due to their lightweight, high energy density, high energy efficiency, scalability, and low noise features. In order to produce a stroke, a DE membrane needs to be pre-loaded with a mechanical biasing mechanism. In our previous works, we compared the stroke achieved with different biasing mechanisms for a circular out-of-plane DE Actuator (DEA), i.e., hanging masses, linear and bi-stable springs. The novel contribution of this paper is the investigation of a biasing design approach based on permanent magnets. The resulting magnet-based actuators are usually more compact than the spring-based ones, allowing to obtain more compact systems. Two design solutions are proposed and compared, namely a first one characterized by a stable actuation, and a second one which permits to achieve a higher stroke, but it is intrinsically unstable. The effectiveness of the novel design solution is assessed by means of several experiments.

Effect of organo-clay on the dielectric relaxation response of silicone rubber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gharavi, N.; Razzaghi-Kashani, M.; Golshan-Ebrahimi, N.

2010-02-01

Dielectric elastomers are light weight, low-cost, highly deformable and fast response smart materials capable of converting electrical energy into mechanical work or vice versa. Silicone rubber is a well-known dielectric elastomer which is used as actuator, and in order to enhance the efficiency of this smart material, compounding of silicone rubber with various fillers can be carried out. The effect of organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) nano-clay on improvement of dielectric properties, actuation stress and its relaxation response was considered in this study. OMMT was dispersed in room temperature vulcanized (RTV) silicone rubber, and a composite film was cast. Using an in-house actuation set-up, it was shown that the actuation stress for a given electric field intensity is higher for composites than that for pristine silicone rubber. Also, the time-dependent actuation response of the samples was evaluated, and it was shown that the characteristic relaxation time of the actuation stress for composites is less than for the pristine rubber as a result of OMMT addition.

Effect of Carbon Black on Elastomer Blends

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Si, Mayu; Koga, Tadanori; Ji, Yuan; Seo, Young-Soo; Rafailovich, Miriam; Sokolov, Jonathan; Gerspacher, M.; Dias, A. J.; Karp, Kriss R.; Satija, Sushil; Lin, Min Y.

2003-03-01

The effects of untreated and heat-treated carbon black N299 on the interfacial properties of PB (Polybutadiene) and terpolymer BIMS [brominated Poly(isobutylene-co-methyl styrene)] were investigated by neutron reflectivity (NR) and lateral force microscopy (LFM). The NR results show that the addition of carbon black significantly slows down the interfacial broadening while heat-treated carbon black has less effect on slowing down the diffusion compared with untreated carbon black. These results were confirmed by the LFM data, which shows the magnitude of lateral force loop of heat-treated carbon black is bigger than that of untreated one. Ultra small and small angle neutron scattering (USANS and SANS) were used to probe the morphology and surface lateral force. Increasing volume concentration of carbon black to 5glass transition temperature of BIMS is also decreased, which was measured by Differential scanning Calorimeter (DSC). XRD analysis indicates that the heat treatment crystallizes the carbon black and strong graphitic peaks are observed. The large degree of crystallization decreases the interaction with the polymer matrix and hence minimizes the effect on the internal dynamics

A Nanohelicoidal Nematic Liquid Crystal Formed by a Non-Linear Duplexed Hexamer.

PubMed

Mandle, Richard J; Goodby, John W

2018-06-11

The twist-bend modulated nematic liquid-crystal phase exhibits formation of a nanometre-scale helical pitch in a fluid and spontaneous breaking of mirror symmetry, leading to a quasi-fluid state composed of chiral domains despite being composed of achiral materials. This phase was only observed for materials with two or more mesogenic units, the manner of attachment between which is always linear. Non-linear oligomers with a H-shaped hexamesogen are now found to exhibit both nematic and twist-bend modulated nematic phases. This shatters the assumption that a linear sequence of mesogenic units is a prerequisite for this phase, and points to this state of matter being exhibited by a wider range of self-assembling structures than was previously envisaged. These results support the double helix model of the TB phase as opposed to the simple heliconical model. This new class of materials could act as low-molecular-weight surrogates for cross-linked liquid-crystalline elastomers. © 2018 Die Autoren. Veröffentlicht von Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Chemical and enzymatic catalytic routes to polyesters and oligopeptides biobased materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jianhui

My Ph.D research focuses on the synthesis and property studies of different biobased materials, including polyesters, polyurethanes and oligopeptides. The first study describes the synthesis, crystal structure and physico-mechanical properties of a bio-based polyester prepared from 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) and 1,4-butanediol. Melt-polycondensation experiments were conducted by a two-stage polymerization using titanium tetraisopropoxide (Ti[OiPr] 4) as catalyst. Polymerization conditions (catalyst concentration, reaction time and 2nd stage reaction temperature) were varied to optimize poly(butylene furan dicarboxylate), PBF, molecular weight. A series of PBFs with different Mw were characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis (DMTA), X-Ray diffraction and tensile testing. Influence of molecular weight and melting/crystallization enthalpy on PBF material tensile properties was explored. Cold-drawing tensile tests at room temperature for PBF with Mw 16K to 27K showed a brittle-to-ductile transition. When Mw reaches 38K, the Young's Modulus of PBF remains above 900 MPa, and the elongation at break increases to above 1000%. The mechanical properties, thermal properties and crystal structures of PBF were similar to petroleum derived poly(butylenes terephthalate), PBT. Fiber diagrams of uniaxially stretched PBF films were collected, indexed, and the unit cell was determined as triclinic (a=4.78(3) A, b=6.03(5) A, c=12.3(1) A, alpha=110.1(2)°, beta=121.1(3)°, gamma=100.6(2)°). A crystal structure was derived from this data and final atomic coordinates are reported. We concluded that there is a close similarity of the PBF structure to PBT alpha- and beta-forms. In the second study, a biobased long chain polyester polyol (PC14-OH) was synthesized from o-hydroxytetradecanoic acid (o-HOC14) and 1,4-butanediol. The first section about polyester polyurethanes describes the synthesis and physico-mechanical properties for two series of linear polyurethane elastomers built from polyol polyesters which contain bio-based o-hydroxytetradecanoic acid (o-HOC14) repeat units. Varied quantities of o-HOC14 was converted by a condensation polymerization catalyzed by titanium tetraisopropoxide (Ti[OiPr]4) to polyester polyol with Mn around 2K. By end-cap the polyols with excess amount of 1,4-butanediol, low number of carbonyl end group can be achieved so that the polyols can be further used as soft segment of thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU). We have studied the thermo-mechanical properties of two-series polyurethanes with different polyester polyols or polyester polyols mixtures. With increasing amount of o-HOC14 content in the soft segment polyols of polyurethanes, tensile strength of the polyurethanes kept increasing from 30MPa to 470MPa while at the same time their elongation ratio decreased from 900% to 300%. Their mechanical behavior shifted from elastomer to semi-crystalline plastic. In the second section about polyether polyurethanes, PC14-OH and poly(tetrahydrofuran) mixtures were used as soft segment in linear polyurethane elastomer synthesis. Similar thermal and mechanical property changing trends were observed with increasing amount of PC14-OH up to 30 wt% of total soft segments. In this study, the functions of PC14-OH in thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers were identified, and there are several benefits of incorporating this long chain fatty acid. In the third study, seven amphiphilic alternating oligopeptides were synthesized via chemo-enzymatic routes. Four proteases (papain, bromelain, alpha-chymotrypsin, and trypsin) were evaluated to determine their efficiency in synthesizing alternating peptides. The first series is hydrophobic-anionic alternating oligopeptides targeting for self assembly smart material design. So far, beta-sheet secondary structure of the anionic alternating oligopeptides was not observed very clearly at low pH comparing to the cationic alternating oligopeptides (KL)x, which is probably due to the short chain length of the oligopeptides. Combination of cationic and anionic alternating oligopeptides has been tested by (KL)x and (LD)x mixtures at 1:1 weight ratio, beta-sheet secondary structure started to appear at neutral pH. The preliminary CD results of the mixtures have shown the potential to manipulate self assembly behavior at different pHs. The second series is alternating oligo(Lys-Trp) targeting for antimicrobial agent design. The alternating (KW)x was successfully synthesized by alpha-chymotrypsin in mixed solvent medium. Chain length of (KW)x can be varied when using different mixed solvent medium. In order to increase the solubility of (KW)x-OEt, C-terminal ethyl ester moiety was modified by reaction with ethylene diamine. Antimicrobial activities of (KW)x with different chain lengths have been tested against E.coli and S. aureus. Our work utilizes a simplified synthetic method to prepare alternating peptides at the cost of chain length uniformity. However, (KW)x-OEt (n=3--6) alternating peptide mixtures still possesses quite good antimicrobial activity while the preparation method is much more easier and greener, which means this method is more economical and environmental friendly. Moreover, the adjustment of reaction conditions and proteases can successfully enhance the control over KW alternating peptide chain length to better achieve more antimicrobial active products. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

Dielectric elastomer pump for artificial organisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowers, Amy E.; Rossiter, Jonathan M.; Walters, Peter J.; Ieropoulos, Ioannis A.

2011-04-01

This paper presents a bio-inspired, dielectric elastomer (DE) based tubular pumping unit, developed for eventual use as a component of an artificial digestive tract onboard a microbial fuel cell powered robot (EcoBot). The pump effects fluid displacement by direct actuation of the tube wall as opposed to excitation by an external body. The actuator consists of a DE tube moulded from silicone, held in a negative pressure chamber, which is used for prestraining the tube. The pump is coupled with custom designed polymeric check valves in order to rectify the fluid flow and assess the performance of the unit. The valves exhibited the necessary low opening pressures required for use with the actuator. The tube's actuation characteristics were measured both with and without liquid in the system. Based on these data the optimal operating conditions for the pump are discussed. The pump and valve system has achieved flowrates in excess of 40μl/s. This radially contracting/expanding actuator element is the fundamental component of a peristaltic pump. This 'soft pump' concept is suitable for biomimetic robotic systems, or for the medical or food industries where hard contact with the delivered substrate may be undesirable. Future work will look at connecting multiple tubes in series in order to achieve peristalsis.

Graphene and water-based elastomers thin-film composites by dip-moulding.

PubMed

Iliut, Maria; Silva, Claudio; Herrick, Scott; McGlothlin, Mark; Vijayaraghavan, Aravind

2016-09-01

Thin-film elastomers (elastic polymers) have a number of technologically significant applications ranging from sportswear to medical devices. In this work, we demonstrate that graphene can be used to reinforce 20 micron thin elastomer films, resulting in over 50% increase in elastic modulus at a very low loading of 0.1 wt%, while also increasing the elongation to failure. This loading is below the percolation threshold for electrical conductivity. We demonstrate composites with both graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, the reduction being undertaken in-situ or ex-situ using a biocompatible reducing agent in ascorbic acid. The ultrathin films were cast by dip moulding. The transparency of the elastomer films allows us to use optical microscopy image and confirm the uniform distribution as well as the conformation of the graphene flakes within the composite.

Poly (ricinoleic acid) based novel thermosetting elastomer.

PubMed

Ebata, Hiroki; Yasuda, Mayumi; Toshima, Kazunobu; Matsumura, Shuichi

2008-01-01

A novel bio-based thermosetting elastomer was prepared by the lipase-catalyzed polymerization of methyl ricinoleate with subsequent vulcanization. Some mechanical properties of the cured carbon black-filled polyricinoleate compounds were evaluated as a thermosetting elastomer. It was found that the carbon black-filled polyricinoleate compounds were readily cured by sulfur curatives to produce a thermosetting elastomer that formed a rubber-like sheet with a smooth and non-sticky surface. The curing behaviors and mechanical properties were dependent on both the molecular weight of the polyricinoleate and the amount of the sulfur curatives. Cured compounds consisting of polyricinoleate with a molecular weight of 100,800 showed good mechanical properties, such as a hardness of 48 A based on the durometer A measurements, a tensile strength at break of 6.91 MPa and an elongation at break of 350%.

Development of a soft untethered robot using artificial muscle actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Jiawei; Qin, Lei; Lee, Heow Pueh; Zhu, Jian

2017-04-01

Soft robots have attracted much interest recently, due to their potential capability to work effectively in unstructured environment. Soft actuators are key components in soft robots. Dielectric elastomer actuators are one class of soft actuators, which can deform in response to voltage. Dielectric elastomer actuators exhibit interesting attributes including large voltage-induced deformation and high energy density. These attributes make dielectric elastomer actuators capable of functioning as artificial muscles for soft robots. It is significant to develop untethered robots, since connecting the cables to external power sources greatly limits the robots' functionalities, especially autonomous movements. In this paper we develop a soft untethered robot based on dielectric elastomer actuators. This robot mainly consists of a deformable robotic body and two paper-based feet. The robotic body is essentially a dielectric elastomer actuator, which can expand or shrink at voltage on or off. In addition, the two feet can achieve adhesion or detachment based on the mechanism of electroadhesion. In general, the entire robotic system can be controlled by electricity or voltage. By optimizing the mechanical design of the robot (the size and weight of electric circuits), we put all these components (such as batteries, voltage amplifiers, control circuits, etc.) onto the robotic feet, and the robot is capable of realizing autonomous movements. Experiments are conducted to study the robot's locomotion. Finite element method is employed to interpret the deformation of dielectric elastomer actuators, and the simulations are qualitatively consistent with the experimental observations.

Efficacy of tray adhesives for the adhesion of elastomer rubber impression materials to impression modeling plastics for border molding.

PubMed

Nishigawa, G; Sato, T; Suenaga, K; Minagi, S

1998-02-01

Tray adhesive, which is used for the adhesion of elastomer rubber impression materials to a custom resin tray, lowers the retention of the impression materials to the impression modeling plastics, as some ingredients of tray adhesive make the impression modeling plastic soft and tacky. The efficacy of tray adhesive, which is used for the adhesion of elastomer rubber impression materials to a custom resin tray, on the adhesion between elastomer rubber impression material and impression modeling plastic was investigated. Four silicone rubber impression materials (two addition reaction types and two condensation reaction types), two polysulfide rubber impression materials, and one impression modeling plastic were used in this study. Tensile strength between elastomer rubber impression material and impression modeling plastic with or without the application of tray adhesive was evaluated. Although tray adhesives for both addition reaction type and both condensation reaction type of silicone impression materials and one tray adhesive for polysulfide rubber impression material increased the tensile strength between the impression material and impression modeling plastic, one tray adhesive for polysulfide rubber impression material decreased the tensile strength when sufficient drying time was not applied.

Polymers Are Everywhere.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seymour, Raymond B.

1988-01-01

Describes the history of the human understanding of polymers from alchemy to modern times. Discusses renaissance chemistry, polymers in the nineteenth century, synthetic elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers, fibers, coatings, adhesives, derivatives of natural rubber, thermosets, step-reaction, and chain polymerization. (CW)

Process for manufacturing shell membrane force and deflection sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Park, Yong-Lae (Inventor); Moslehi, Behzad (Inventor); Black, Richard James (Inventor); Cutkosky, Mark R. (Inventor); Chau, Kelvin K. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

A sensor for force is formed from an elastomeric cylinder having a region with apertures. The apertures have passageways formed between them, and an optical fiber is introduced into these passageways, where the optical fiber has a grating for measurement of tension positioned in the passageways between apertures. Optionally, a temperature measurement sensor is placed in or around the elastomer for temperature correction, and if required, a copper film may be deposited in the elastomer for reduced sensitivity to spot temperature variations in the elastomer near the sensors.

Force and deflection sensor with shell membrane and optical gratings and method of manufacture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Park, Yong-Lae (Inventor); Moslehi, Behzad (Inventor); Black, Richard James (Inventor); Cutkosky, Mark R. (Inventor); Chau, Kelvin K (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A sensor for force is formed from an elastomeric cylinder having a region with apertures. The apertures have passageways formed between them, and an optical fiber is introduced into these passageways, where the optical fiber has a grating for measurement of tension positioned in the passageways between apertures. Optionally, a temperature measurement sensor is placed in or around the elastomer for temperature correction, and if required, a copper film may be deposited in the elastomer for reduced sensitivity to spot temperature variations in the elastomer near the sensors.

Space Shuttle Aging Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curtis, Cris E.

2007-01-01

The reusable Manned Space Shuttle has been flying into Space and returning to earth for more than 25 years. The Space Shuttle's uses various types of elastomers and they play a vital role in mission success. The Orbiter has been in service well past its design life of 10 years or 100 missions. As part of the aging vehicle assessment one question under evaluation is how the elastomers are performing. This paper will outline a strategic assessment plan, how identified problems were resolved and the integration activities between subsystems and Aging Orbiter Working Group.

Composite magnetorheological elastomers as dielectrics for plane capacitors: Effects of magnetic field intensity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balasoiu, Maria; Bica, Ioan

The fabrication of composite magnetorheological elastomers (MRECs) based on silicone rubber, carbonyl iron microparticles (10% vol.) and polyurethane elastomer doped with 0%, 10% and 20% volume concentration TiO2 microparticles is presented. The obtained MRECs have the shape of thin foils and are used as dielectric materials for manufacturing plane capacitors. Using the plane capacitor method and expression of capacitance as a function of magnetic field intensity, combined with linear elasticity theory, the static magnetoelastic model of the composite is obtained and analyzed.

A study of the dynamic flammability of radiation cross-linked flame-retardant HDPE/EPDM/silicon-elastomer compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Shaojin; Zhang, Zhicheng; Du, Zhiwen; Teng, Renrui; Wang, Zhengzhou

2003-04-01

A dynamic flammability study of flame-retardant compound consisting of HDPE, EPDM and silicon elastomer blended with additives, as wire and cable insulation was made before and after irradiation. The data of RHR, EHC, SEC and the concentration of CO and CO 2 from cone colorimeter shown in the burning process were accessed. By blending silicon elastomer, CO release rate was reduced and the thermal endurance was improved. Oxygen index, mechanical property, morphology of the char formed in dynamical flame and thermal stability were also investigated.

Self-organized minimum-energy structures for dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kofod, G.; Paajanen, M.; Bauer, S.

2006-11-01

When a stretched elastomer is laminated to a flat plastic frame, a complex shape is formed, which is termed a minimum-energy structure. It is shown how self-organized structures can be applied in the development of actuators with complex, out-of-plane actuationmodes. This unusual concept is then demonstrated in the case of dielectric elastomer actuators. Among advantages of this approach are the simplicity in manufacturing, the potential complexity and sophistication of the manufactured structures, and the general benefits of the concept when applied to other electro-mechanically active materials.

A passive autofocus system by using standard deviation of the image on a liquid lens

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rasti, Pejman; Kesküla, Arko; Haus, Henry; Schlaak, Helmut F.; Anbarjafari, Gholamreza; Aabloo, Alvo; Kiefer, Rudolf

2015-04-01

Today most of applications have a small camera such as cell phones, tablets and medical devices. A micro lens is required in order to reduce the size of the devices. In this paper an auto focus system is used in order to find the best position of a liquid lens without any active components such as ultrasonic or infrared. In fact a passive auto focus system by using standard deviation of the images on a liquid lens which consist of a Dielectric Elastomer Actuator (DEA) membrane between oil and water is proposed.

Investigation on γ-irradiated PP/ethylene acrylic elastomer TPVs by rheological and thermal approaches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutta, Anindya; Ghosh, Anup K.

2018-03-01

Polypropylene (PP) was melt blended with varying concentration of ethylene acrylic elastomer (AEM) in a twin screw extruder and then γ-irradiated at several radiation doses to achieve a series of thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV). The effect of AEM concentration and γ-irradiation on flow characteristics, crystallization and thermal degradation of blends were explained using melt dynamic rheology, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. Gel content values and dynamic rheological data of PP and AEM at different radiation doses confirmed the incessant scissioning of PP chains with radiation doses except for highest radiation dose, where crosslinking of PP chains took place and the incessant crosslinking of AEM chains irrespective of radiation doses. Oxidative degradation of PP was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy, which also exhibited absence of any chemical interaction between two constituent polymers. Normalized crystallinity and melting point of compositions, obtained from DSC, decreased with the radiation doses. Furthermore, with the radiation doses clear shifts of maxima of the melting peak towards the lower temperature were observed for neat PP and blends. Thermal stability of PP and blends, as observed by TGA, reduced significantly with irradiation; whereas for AEM, no discernable change was observed. Enhanced chain scissioning of PP in presence of AEM reduced the thermal stability of blends, especially at lower irradiation. This reduction of thermal stability was established by "rule of mixture", applied to the activation energy of thermal degradation. Thus, optimization of radiation doses to prepare TPVs was established.

29 CFR Appendix A to Part 510 - Manufacturing Industries Eligible for Minimum Wage Phase-In

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... resins, and nonvulcanizable elastomers. 2822 2 Synthetic rubber (vulcanizable elastomers). 283 1 Drugs... shops). 3444 2 Sheet metal work. 3446 3 Architectural and ornamental metal work. 3449 2 Miscellaneous...

29 CFR Appendix A to Part 510 - Manufacturing Industries Eligible for Minimum Wage Phase-In

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... resins, and nonvulcanizable elastomers. 2822 2 Synthetic rubber (vulcanizable elastomers). 283 1 Drugs... shops). 3444 2 Sheet metal work. 3446 3 Architectural and ornamental metal work. 3449 2 Miscellaneous...

29 CFR Appendix A to Part 510 - Manufacturing Industries Eligible for Minimum Wage Phase-In

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... resins, and nonvulcanizable elastomers. 2822 2 Synthetic rubber (vulcanizable elastomers). 283 1 Drugs... shops). 3444 2 Sheet metal work. 3446 3 Architectural and ornamental metal work. 3449 2 Miscellaneous...

Hydrazine-Compatible Elastomer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Markles, O., F.; Dye, T. G.

1982-01-01

Hydrazine hardly reacts with ethylene propylene diene monomer, even at high temperatures. According to report to tests, EPDM is most hydrazine-compatible material among elastomers. Has strong potential as valve-seat and O-ring seal with hydrazine, especially at high temperatures.

Dielectric elastomer actuators for facial expression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yuzhe; Zhu, Jian

2016-04-01

Dielectric elastomer actuators have the advantage of mimicking the salient feature of life: movements in response to stimuli. In this paper we explore application of dielectric elastomer actuators to artificial muscles. These artificial muscles can mimic natural masseter to control jaw movements, which are key components in facial expressions especially during talking and singing activities. This paper investigates optimal design of the dielectric elastomer actuator. It is found that the actuator with embedded plastic fibers can avert electromechanical instability and can greatly improve its actuation. Two actuators are then installed in a robotic skull to drive jaw movements, mimicking the masseters in a human jaw. Experiments show that the maximum vertical displacement of the robotic jaw, driven by artificial muscles, is comparable to that of the natural human jaw during speech activities. Theoretical simulations are conducted to analyze the performance of the actuator, which is quantitatively consistent with the experimental observations.

Controlling levonorgestrel binding and release in a multi-purpose prevention technology vaginal ring device.

PubMed

Murphy, Diarmaid J; Boyd, Peter; McCoy, Clare F; Kumar, Sandeep; Holt, Jonathon D S; Blanda, Wendy; Brimer, Andrew N; Malcolm, R Karl

2016-03-28

Despite a long history of incorporating steroids into silicone elastomers for drug delivery applications, little is presently known about the propensity for irreversible drug binding in these systems. In this study, the ability of the contraceptive progestin levonorgestrel to bind chemically with hydrosilane groups in addition-cure silicone elastomers has been thoroughly investigated. Cure time, cure temperature, levonorgestrel particle size, initial levonorgestrel loading and silicone elastomer type were demonstrated to be key parameters impacting the extent of levonorgestrel binding, each through their influence on the solubility of levonorgestrel in the silicone elastomer. Understanding and overcoming this levonorgestrel binding phenomenon is critical for the ongoing development of a number of drug delivery products, including a multi-purpose technology vaginal ring device offering simultaneous release of levonorgestrel and dapivirine - a lead candidate antiretroviral microbicide - for combination HIV prevention and hormonal contraception. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Role of uncrosslinked chains in droplets dynamics on silicone elastomers.

PubMed

Hourlier-Fargette, Aurélie; Antkowiak, Arnaud; Chateauminois, Antoine; Neukirch, Sébastien

2017-05-21

We report an unexpected behavior in wetting dynamics on soft silicone substrates: the dynamics of aqueous droplets deposited on vertical plates of such elastomers exhibits two successive speed regimes. This macroscopic observation is found to be closely related to microscopic phenomena occurring at the scale of the polymer network: we show that uncrosslinked chains found in most widely used commercial silicone elastomers are responsible for this surprising behavior. A direct visualization of the uncrosslinked oligomers collected by water droplets is performed, evidencing that a capillarity-induced phase separation occurs: uncrosslinked oligomers are extracted from the silicone elastomer network by the water-glycerol mixture droplet. The sharp speed change is shown to coincide with an abrupt transition in surface tension of the droplets, when a critical surface concentration in uncrosslinked oligomer chains is reached. We infer that a droplet shifts to a second regime with a faster speed when it is completely covered with a homogeneous oil film.

Failure life determination of oilfield elastomer seals in sour gas/dimethyl disulfide environments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kennelley, K.J.; Abrams, P.I.; Vicic, J.C.

1989-01-01

Previous screening tests of various oilfield elastomers in sour gas/dimethyl disulfide environments indicated that hydrogenated nitrile (HNBR), tetrafluoroethylene-propylene (TFE/P), ethylene-propylene-diene (EPDM), and perfluorinated rubber (FFKM) elastomers may perform satisfactorily in these environments. This paper describes subsequent failure life tests conducted with the subject elastomers in the sour gas/dimethyl disulfide test environment at several elevated temperatures (> 135{degrees}C). The materials were tested in the form of O-rings (size 214), which were used to seal an autoclave containing the test environment at 14 MPa gas pressure. The results were used to extrapolate time to failure at a common reference temperature of 135{degrees}C.more » The performance of EPDM and HNBR in the sour gas/dimethyl disulfide mixture substantially exceeded a projected 20-year service life at 135{degrees}C, while FFKM and TFE/P did not.« less

Thermally driven piston assembly and position control therefor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomsen, III, Donald L. (Inventor); Bryant, Robert G. (Inventor)

2010-01-01

A thermally driven piston assembly's housing has (i) a first material slidingly fitted therein, and (ii) at least one plug of a second material slidingly fitted therein and abutting the first material. The first material is one (e.g., a liquid crystal elastomer) that undergoes a stiffness change and/or a dimensional change when subjected to a temperature change in the temperature range of interest. When subjected to the temperature change while in the housing, the first material is restricted to changing dimensionally along a single dimension. The second material retains its shape and size throughout the temperature range of interest. As a result, the plug moves in the housing in correspondence with the dimensional change of the first material or the plug's movement is damped by the stiffness change of the first material.

Hydrogel ionotronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Canhui; Suo, Zhigang

2018-06-01

An ionotronic device functions by a hybrid circuit of mobile ions and mobile electrons. Hydrogels are stretchable, transparent, ionic conductors that can transmit electrical signals of high frequency over long distance, enabling ionotronic devices such as artificial muscles, skins and axons. Moreover, ionotronic luminescent devices, ionotronic liquid crystal devices, touchpads, triboelectric generators, artificial eels and gel-elastomer-oil devices can be designed based on hydrogels. In this Review, we discuss first-generation hydrogel ionotronic devices and the challenges associated with the mechanical properties and the chemistry of the materials. We examine how strong and stretchable adhesion between hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymer networks can be achieved, how water can be retained in hydrogels and how to design hydrogels that resist fatigue under cyclic loads. Finally, we highlight applications of hydrogel ionotronic devices and discuss the future of the field.

A light-driven artificial flytrap

PubMed Central

Wani, Owies M.; Zeng, Hao; Priimagi, Arri

2017-01-01

The sophistication, complexity and intelligence of biological systems is a continuous source of inspiration for mankind. Mimicking the natural intelligence to devise tiny systems that are capable of self-regulated, autonomous action to, for example, distinguish different targets, remains among the grand challenges in biomimetic micro-robotics. Herein, we demonstrate an autonomous soft device, a light-driven flytrap, that uses optical feedback to trigger photomechanical actuation. The design is based on light-responsive liquid-crystal elastomer, fabricated onto the tip of an optical fibre, which acts as a power source and serves as a contactless probe that senses the environment. Mimicking natural flytraps, this artificial flytrap is capable of autonomous closure and object recognition. It enables self-regulated actuation within the fibre-sized architecture, thus opening up avenues towards soft, autonomous small-scale devices. PMID:28534872

3D Printing of Living Responsive Materials and Devices.

PubMed

Liu, Xinyue; Yuk, Hyunwoo; Lin, Shaoting; Parada, German Alberto; Tang, Tzu-Chieh; Tham, Eléonore; de la Fuente-Nunez, Cesar; Lu, Timothy K; Zhao, Xuanhe

2018-01-01

3D printing has been intensively explored to fabricate customized structures of responsive materials including hydrogels, liquid-crystal elastomers, shape-memory polymers, and aqueous droplets. Herein, a new method and material system capable of 3D-printing hydrogel inks with programed bacterial cells as responsive components into large-scale (3 cm), high-resolution (30 μm) living materials, where the cells can communicate and process signals in a programmable manner, are reported. The design of 3D-printed living materials is guided by quantitative models that account for the responses of programed cells in printed microstructures of hydrogels. Novel living devices are further demonstrated, enabled by 3D printing of programed cells, including logic gates, spatiotemporally responsive patterning, and wearable devices. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Molecular-level Simulations of Shock Generation and Propagation in Polyurea

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-26

homepage: www.e lsev ier .com/ locate /msea Molecular-level simulations of shock generation and propagation in polyurea M. Grujicica,∗, B. Pandurangana... Polyurea Shock-wave generation and propagation Molecular-level calculations a b s t r a c t A non-equilibrium molecular dynamics method is employed in order...to study various phenomena accompanying the generation and propagation of shock waves in polyurea (a micro-phase segregated elastomer). Several

21 CFR 177.1050 - Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer modified with butadiene/styrene elastomer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... parts by weight of a grafted rubber consisting of (i) 8-12 parts of butadiene/styrene elastomer... limitations are determined by an infrared spectro-photo-metric method titled “Infrared Spectro-photo-metric...

MRI-based morphological modeling, synthesis and characterization of cardiac tissue-mimicking materials.

PubMed

Kossivas, Fotis; Angeli, S; Kafouris, D; Patrickios, C S; Tzagarakis, V; Constantinides, C

2012-06-01

This study uses standard synthetic methodologies to produce tissue-mimicking materials that match the morphology and emulate the in vivo murine and human cardiac mechanical and imaging characteristics, with dynamic mechanical analysis, atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and magnetic resonance imaging. In accordance with such aims, poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) elastomeric materials were synthesized (at two different glycerol (G)-sebacic (S) acid molar ratios; the first was synthesized using a G:S molar ratio of 2:2, while the second from a 2:5 G:S molar ratio, resulting in PGS2:2 and PGS2:5 elastomers, respectively). Unlike the synthesized PGS2:2 elastomers, the PGS2:5 materials were characterized by an overall mechanical instability in their loading behavior under the three successive loading conditions tested. An oscillatory response in the mechanical properties of the synthesized elastomers was observed throughout the loading cycles, with measured increased storage modulus values at the first loading cycle, stabilizing to lower values at subsequent cycles. These elastomers were characterized at 4 °C and were found to have storage modulus values of 850 and 1430 kPa at the third loading cycle, respectively, in agreement with previously reported values of the rat and human myocardium. SEM of surface topology indicated minor degradation of synthesized materials at 10 and 20 d post-immersion in the PBS buffer solution, with a noted cluster formation on the PGS2:5 elastomers. AFM nanoindentation experiments were also conducted for the measurement of the Young modulus of the sample surface (no bulk contribution). Correspondingly, the PGS2:2 elastomer indicated significantly decreased surface Young's modulus values 20 d post-PBS immersion, compared to dry conditions (Young's modulus = 1160 ± 290 kPa (dry) and 200 ± 120 kPa (20 d)). In addition to the two-dimensional (2D) elastomers, an integrative platform for accurate construction of three-dimensional tissue-mimicking models of cardiac anatomy from 2D MR images using rapid prototyping manufacturing processes was developed. For synthesized elastomers, doping strategies with two different concentrations of the MRI contrast agent Dotarem allowed independent and concurrent control of the imaging characteristics (contrast and relaxivity) during the synthetic process for increased contrast agent absorption, with tremendous potential for non-destructive in vivo use and applications to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

Viscoelastic effects on the actuation performance of a dielectric elastomer actuator under different equal, un-equal biaxial pre-stretches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quang Tran, Danh; Li, Jin; Xuan, Fuzhen; Xiao, Ting

2018-06-01

Dielectric elastomers (DEs) are belonged to a group of polymers which cause a time-dependence deformation due to the effect of viscoelastic. In recent years, viscoelasticity has been accounted in the modeling in order to understand the complete electromechanical behavior of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs). In this paper, we investigate the actuation performance of a circular DEA under different equal, un-equal biaxial pre-stretches, based on a nonlinear rheological model. The theoretical results are validated by experiments, which verify the electromechanical constitutive equation of the DEs. The viscoelastic mechanical characteristic is analyzed by modeling simulation analysis and experimental to describe the influence of frequency, voltage, pre-stretch, and waveform on the actuation response of the actuator. Our study indicates that: The DEA with different equal or un-equal biaxial pre-stretches undergoes different actuation performance when subject to high voltage. Under an un-equal biaxial pre-stretch, the DEA deforms unequally and shows different deformation abilities in two directions. The relative creep strain behavior of the DEA due to the effect of viscoelasticity can be reduced by increasing pre-stretch ratio. Higher equal biaxial pre-stretch obtains larger deformation strain, improves actuation response time, and reduces the drifting of the equilibrium position in the dynamic response of the DEA when activated by step and period voltage, while increasing the frequency will inhibit the output stretch amplitude. The results in this paper can provide theoretical guidance and application reference for design and control of the viscoelastic DEAs.

Conductive elastomers by a new latex process

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Electrically conductive polymers such as polyaniline can be used to in production of light-emitting diodes, printed circuit board components, antistatic materials, etc. Highly filled elastomers, such as those filled with metallic powders, can also conduct electricity. However, limitations due to co...

A kinetic study of hydrolysis of polyester elastomer in magnetic tape

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamamoto, K.; Watanabe, H.

1994-01-01

A useful method for kinetic study of the hydrolysis of polyester elastomer is established which uses the number-average molecular weight. The reasonableness of this method is confirmed and the effect of magnetic particles on hydrolysis is considered.

40 CFR Table 5 to Subpart U of... - Known Organic HAP Emitted From the Production of Elastomer Products

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... products] Organic HAP/Chemical name (CAS No.) Elastomer product/subcategory BR EPI EPR HYP NEO NBL NBR PBR.... NEO = Neoprene. NBL = Nitrile Butadiene Latex. NBR = Nitrile Butadiene Rubber. PBR/SBRS...

40 CFR Table 5 to Subpart U of... - Known Organic HAP Emitted From the Production of Elastomer Products

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... products] Organic HAP/Chemical name (CAS No.) Elastomer product/subcategory BR EPI EPR HYP NEO NBL NBR PBR.... NEO = Neoprene. NBL = Nitrile Butadiene Latex. NBR = Nitrile Butadiene Rubber. PBR/SBRS...

40 CFR Table 5 to Subpart U of... - Known Organic HAP Emitted From the Production of Elastomer Products

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... products] Organic HAP/Chemical name (CAS No.) Elastomer product/subcategory BR EPI EPR HYP NEO NBL NBR PBR.... NEO = Neoprene. NBL = Nitrile Butadiene Latex. NBR = Nitrile Butadiene Rubber. PBR/SBRS...

40 CFR Table 5 to Subpart U of... - Known Organic HAP Emitted From the Production of Elastomer Products

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... products] Organic HAP/Chemical name (CAS No.) Elastomer product/subcategory BR EPI EPR HYP NEO NBL NBR PBR.... NEO = Neoprene. NBL = Nitrile Butadiene Latex. NBR = Nitrile Butadiene Rubber. PBR/SBRS...

Collapse of triangular channels in a soft elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tepáyotl-Ramírez, Daniel; Lu, Tong; Park, Yong-Lae; Majidi, Carmel

2013-01-01

We extend classical solutions in contact mechanics to examine the collapse of channels in a soft elastomer. These channels have triangular cross-section and collapse when pressure is applied to the surrounding elastomer. Treating the walls of the channel as indenters that penetrate the channel base, we derive an algebraic mapping between pressure and cross-sectional area. These theoretical predictions are in strong agreement with results that we obtain through finite element analysis and experimental measurements. This is accomplished without data fitting and suggests that the theoretical approach may be generalized to a broad range of cross-sectional geometries in soft microfluidics.

Novel dielectric elastomer structure of soft robot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Chi; Xie, Yuhan; Huang, Xiaoqiang; Liu, Junjie; Jin, Yongbin; Li, Tiefeng

2015-04-01

Inspired from the natural invertebrates like worms and starfish, we propose a novel elastomeric smart structure. The smart structure can function as a soft robot. The soft robot is made from a flexible elastomer as the body and driven by dielectric elastomer as the muscle. Finite element simulations based on nonlinear field theory are conducted to investigate the working condition of the structure, and guide the design of the smart structure. The effects of the prestretch, structural stiffness and voltage on the performance of the smart structure are investigated. This work can guide the design of soft robot.

Compatibility testing of vacuum seal materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foster, P. A.; Rodin, W. A.

1993-05-01

Small scale materials compatibility testing was conducted for three elastomers considered for use as vacuum seal materials: Adiprene MOCA-cured; Adiprene Cyanacured; and Sylgard silastic rubber. The tests were conducted using orthogonal array designed experiments for each of the elastomers placed in contact with three materials commonly used during weapon disassembly operations: Duxseal, Sylgard 186 grease, and 2-propyl alcohol. The test results indicated that only the 2-propyl alcohol had a significant effect on the elastomer hardness and physical properties. The alcohol had the largest effect on the two Adiprene materials, and the silastic rubber was the least affected.

Melt compounding with graphene to develop functional, high-performance elastomers.

PubMed

Araby, Sherif; Zaman, Izzuddin; Meng, Qingshi; Kawashima, Nobuyuki; Michelmore, Andrew; Kuan, Hsu-Chiang; Majewski, Peter; Ma, Jun; Zhang, Liqun

2013-04-26

Rather than using graphene oxide, which is limited by a high defect concentration and cost due to oxidation and reduction, we adopted cost-effective, 3.56 nm thick graphene platelets (GnPs) of high structural integrity to melt compound with an elastomer-ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber (EPDM)-using an industrial facility. An elastomer is an amorphous, chemically crosslinked polymer generally having rather low modulus and fracture strength but high fracture strain in comparison with other materials; and upon removal of loading, it is able to return to its original geometry, immediately and completely. It was found that most GnPs dispersed uniformly in the elastomer matrix, although some did form clusters. A percolation threshold of electrical conductivity at 18 vol% GnPs was observed and the elastomer thermal conductivity increased by 417% at 45 vol% GnPs. The modulus and tensile strength increased by 710% and 404% at 26.7 vol% GnPs, respectively. The modulus improvement agrees well with the Guth and Halpin-Tsai models. The reinforcing effect of GnPs was compared with silicate layers and carbon nanotube. Our simple fabrication would prolong the service life of elastomeric products used in dynamic loading, thus reducing thermosetting waste in the environment.

Biomechanical characterization of a low density silicone elastomer filled with hollow microspheres for maxillofacial prostheses.

PubMed

Liu, Q; Shao, L Q; Xiang, H F; Zhen, D; Zhao, N; Yang, S G; Zhang, X L; Xu, J

2013-01-01

An ideal material for maxillofacial prostheses has not been found. We created a novel material: silicone elastomer filled with hollow microspheres and characterized its biomechanical properties. Expancel hollow microspheres were mixed with MDX4-4210 silicone elastomer using Q7-9180 silicone fluid as diluent. The volume fractions of microspheres were 0, 5, 15, and 30% v/v (volume ratio to the total volume of MDX4-4210 and microspheres). The microspheres dispersed well in the matrix. The physical properties and biocompatibility of the composites were examined. Shock absorption was the greatest by the 5% v/v composite, and decreased with increasing concentrations of microspheres. The density, thermal conductivity, Shore A hardness, tear and tensile strength decreased with increasing concentrations of microspheres, while elongation at break increased. Importantly, the tear strength of all composites was markedly lower than that of pure silicone elastomer. Cell viability assays indicated that the composite was of good biocompatibility. The composite with a volume fraction of 5% exhibited the optimal properties for use as a maxillofacial prosthesis, though its tear strength was markedly lower than that of silicone elastomer. In conclusion, we developed a novel light and soft material with good flexibility and biocompatibility, which holds a promising prospect for clinical application as maxillofacial prosthesis.

Dielectric elastomer memory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Brien, Benjamin M.; McKay, Thomas G.; Xie, Sheng Q.; Calius, Emilio P.; Anderson, Iain A.

2011-04-01

Life shows us that the distribution of intelligence throughout flexible muscular networks is a highly successful solution to a wide range of challenges, for example: human hearts, octopi, or even starfish. Recreating this success in engineered systems requires soft actuator technologies with embedded sensing and intelligence. Dielectric Elastomer Actuator(s) (DEA) are promising due to their large stresses and strains, as well as quiet flexible multimodal operation. Recently dielectric elastomer devices were presented with built in sensor, driver, and logic capability enabled by a new concept called the Dielectric Elastomer Switch(es) (DES). DES use electrode piezoresistivity to control the charge on DEA and enable the distribution of intelligence throughout a DEA device. In this paper we advance the capabilities of DES further to form volatile memory elements. A set reset flip-flop with inverted reset line was developed based on DES and DEA. With a 3200V supply the flip-flop behaved appropriately and demonstrated the creation of dielectric elastomer memory capable of changing state in response to 1 second long set and reset pulses. This memory opens up applications such as oscillator, de-bounce, timing, and sequential logic circuits; all of which could be distributed throughout biomimetic actuator arrays. Future work will include miniaturisation to improve response speed, implementation into more complex circuits, and investigation of longer lasting and more sensitive switching materials.

Anisotropic optical response of optically opaque elastomers with conductive fillers as revealed by terahertz polarization spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Okano, Makoto; Watanabe, Shinichi

2016-01-01

Elastomers are one of the most important materials in modern society because of the inherent viscoelastic properties due to their cross-linked polymer chains. Their vibration-absorbing and adhesive properties are especially useful and thus utilized in various applications, for example, tires in automobiles and bicycles, seismic dampers in buildings, and seals in a space shuttle. Thus, the nondestructive inspection of their internal states such as the internal deformation is essential in safety. Generally, industrial elastomers include various kinds of additives, such as carbon blacks for reinforcing them. The additives make most of them opaque in a wide spectral range from visible to mid-infrared, resulting in that the nondestructive inspection of the internal deformation is quite difficult. Here, we demonstrate transmission terahertz polarization spectroscopy as a powerful technique for investigating the internal optical anisotropy in optically opaque elastomers with conductive additives, which are transparent only in the terahertz frequency region. The internal deformation can be probed through the polarization changes inside the material due to the anisotropic dielectric response of the conductive additives. Our study about the polarization-dependent terahertz response of elastomers with conductive additives provides novel knowledge for in situ, nondestructive evaluation of their internal deformation. PMID:28008942

Polymerization of perfluorobutadiene at near-ambient conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Toy, M. S.

1971-01-01

Peroxide catalyst under mild conditions initiates homopolymerization of perfluoro butadiene to new linear perfluoro polyenes and vulcanizable fluoro elastomers. Resulting polyperfluoro butadiene serves as hard elastomer for good chemical resistance, as intermediate in graft polymerizations, and as crosslink for high molecular weight materials.

Thermal Insulation Chemical Composition and Method of Manufacture.

DTIC Science & Technology

conditions in high temperature solid propellant gas generators can be formed of an ethylene propylene, diene monomer ( EPDM )-neoprene rubber binders containing...silica powder filler and aramid fibers. The specific chemical constituents include EPDM elastomer, 2 Chlorobutadiene 1,3 elastomer, Silica hydrate

High impact strength polymers having novel nano-structures produced via reactive extrusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tortorella, Nathan Fraser

A major focus of scientists and engineers over the last century has been to increase the impact strength and therefore reduce the brittleness of materials. By altering and adding energy absorption mechanisms, brittle failure can be averted. Isotactic polypropylene (PP) is the focus of this dissertation because it is an extremely low cost, high volume, versatile plastic but behaves in a brittle manner at or below room temperature or in a notched state. Early work on impact modification of polypropylene focused on blending energy-absorbing low density elastomers and rubbers. These binary blends all had a common problem---an increase in impact strength was paralleled by a significant decrease in both elastic modulus and yield stress. Reactive extrusion processing has allowed the in-situ compatibilization of isotactic polypropylene and metallocene-catalyzed ethylene-octene copolymers (EOCs). This process involves combining both the comonomer and vector fluid approaches to grafting polyolefins. Styrene monomer and a multifunctional acrylate monomer undergo peroxide-induced copolymerization and grafting in the presence of both PP and EOC. This results in a phase separated alloy with an impact strength over 13 times that of pure polypropylene and double that of the physical blend. There is also a significant improvement in stress-strain performance when comparing the alloys to physical blend counterparts. Many researchers have categorized the necessary components to toughening polypropylene as pertaining to the amorphous phase. The alloys described in this dissertation meet the criteria put forth by these researchers, namely low density, crystallinity, and modulus of the elastomer phase, sub-micron particle diameter, close inter-particle distance, and a high degree of entanglements of both the PP matrix phase and EOC minor phase. But many people neglect to study the crystalline state of impact modified PP in conjunction with the amorphous phase. This work shows that the typical 10-100 mum diameter spherulitic structures found in pure PP are not present in the alloys. In fact, the spherulites are less than a micron in diameter, are uniformly distributed throughout the sample, and crystallize at much higher temperatures. SEM images, when coupled with DSC and XRD, reveal the presence of a high number of small lamellar crystals composed of a unique highly dense cross-hatched structure. Thus, impact strength and stiffness can be simultaneously improved by controlling the size and cross-hatch density of the lamellar crystals and applying phase transformation toughening concepts.

A pseudo-thermodynamic description of dispersion for nanocomposites

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jin, Yan; Beaucage, Gregory; Vogtt, Karsten

Dispersion in polymer nanocomposites is determined by the kinetics of mixing and chemical affinity. Compounds like reinforcing filler/elastomer blends display some similarity to colloidal solutions in that the filler particles are close to randomly dispersed through processing. It is attractive to apply a pseudo-thermodynamic approach taking advantage of this analogy between the kinetics of mixing for polymer compounds and thermally driven dispersion for colloids. In order to demonstrate this pseudo-thermodynamic approach, two polybutadienes and one polyisoprene were milled with three carbon blacks and two silicas. These samples were examined using small-angle x-ray scattering as a function of filler concentration tomore » determine a pseudo-second order virial coefficient, A2, which is used as an indicator for compatibility of the filler and polymer. It is found that A2 follows the expected behavior with lower values for smaller primary particles indicating that smaller particles are less compatible and more difficult to mix. The measured values of A2 can be used to specify repulsive interaction potentials for coarse grain DPD simulations of filler/elastomer systems. In addition, new methods to quantify the filler percolation threshold and filler mesh size as a function of filler concentration are obtained. Moreover, the results represent a new approach to understanding and predicting compatibility in polymer nanocomposites based on a pseudo-thermodynamic approach.« less

A pseudo-thermodynamic description of dispersion for nanocomposites

DOE PAGES

Jin, Yan; Beaucage, Gregory; Vogtt, Karsten; ...

2017-09-18

Dispersion in polymer nanocomposites is determined by the kinetics of mixing and chemical affinity. Compounds like reinforcing filler/elastomer blends display some similarity to colloidal solutions in that the filler particles are close to randomly dispersed through processing. It is attractive to apply a pseudo-thermodynamic approach taking advantage of this analogy between the kinetics of mixing for polymer compounds and thermally driven dispersion for colloids. In order to demonstrate this pseudo-thermodynamic approach, two polybutadienes and one polyisoprene were milled with three carbon blacks and two silicas. These samples were examined using small-angle x-ray scattering as a function of filler concentration tomore » determine a pseudo-second order virial coefficient, A2, which is used as an indicator for compatibility of the filler and polymer. It is found that A2 follows the expected behavior with lower values for smaller primary particles indicating that smaller particles are less compatible and more difficult to mix. The measured values of A2 can be used to specify repulsive interaction potentials for coarse grain DPD simulations of filler/elastomer systems. In addition, new methods to quantify the filler percolation threshold and filler mesh size as a function of filler concentration are obtained. Moreover, the results represent a new approach to understanding and predicting compatibility in polymer nanocomposites based on a pseudo-thermodynamic approach.« less

Dielectric Elastomers for Fluidic and Biomedical Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCoul, David James

Dielectric elastomers have demonstrated tremendous potential as high-strain electromechanical transducers for a myriad of novel applications across all engineering disciplines. Because their soft, viscoelastic mechanical properties are similar to those of living tissues, dielectric elastomers have garnered a strong foothold in a plethora of biomedical and biomimetic applications. Dielectric elastomers consist of a sheet of stretched rubber, or elastomer, coated on both sides with compliant electrode materials; application of a voltage generates an electrostatic pressure that deforms the elastomer. They can function as soft generators, sensors, or actuators, and this last function is the focus of this dissertation. Many design configurations are possible, such as stacks, minimum energy structures, interpenetrating polymer networks, shape memory dielectric elastomers, and others; dielectric elastomers are already being applied to many fields of biomedicine. The first part of the original research presented in this dissertation details a PDMS microfluidic system paired with a dielectric elastomer stack actuator of anisotropically prestrained VHB(TM) 4910 (3M(TM)) and single-walled carbon nanotubes. These electroactive microfluidic devices demonstrated active increases in microchannel width when 3 and 4 kV were applied. Fluorescence microscopy also indicated an accompanying increase in channel depth with actuation. The cross-sectional area strains at 3 and 4 kV were approximately 2.9% and 7.4%, respectively. The device was then interfaced with a syringe pump, and the pressure was measured upstream. Linear pressure-flow plots were developed, which showed decreasing fluidic resistance with actuation, from 0.192 psi/(microL/min) at 0 kV, to 0.160 and 0.157 psi/(microL/min) at 3 and 4 kV, respectively. This corresponds to an ~18% drop in fluidic resistance at 4 kV. Active de-clogging was tested in situ with the device by introducing ~50 microm diameter PDMS microbeads and other smaller particulate debris into the system. After a channel blockage was confirmed, three actuation attempts successfully cleared the blockage. Further tests indicated that the device were biocompatible with HeLa cells at 3 kV. To our knowledge this is the first pairing of dielectric elastomers with microfluidics in a non-electroosmotic context. Applications may include adaptive microfilters, micro-peristaltic pumps, and reduced-complexity lab-on-a-chip devices. Dielectric elastomers can also be adapted to manipulate fluidic systems on a larger scale. The second part of the dissertation research reports a novel low-profile, biomimetic dielectric elastomer tubular actuator capable of actively controlling hydraulic flow. The tubular actuator has been established as a reliable tunable valve, pinching a secondary silicone tube completely shut in the absence of a fluidic pressure bias or voltage, offering a high degree of resistance against fluidic flow, and able to open and completely remove this resistance to flow with an applied low power actuation voltage. The system demonstrates a rise in pressure of ~3.0 kPa when the dielectric elastomer valve is in the passive, unactuated state, and there is a quadratic fall in this pressure with increasing actuation voltage, until ~0 kPa is reached at 2.4 kV. The device is reliable for at least 2,000 actuation cycles for voltages at or below 2.2 kV. Furthermore, modeling of the actuator and fluidic system yields results consistent with the observed experimental dependence of intrasystem pressure on input flow rate, actuator prestretch, and actuation voltage. To our knowledge, this is the first actuator of its type that can control fluid flow by directly actuating the walls of a tube. Potential applications may include an implantable artificial sphincter, part of a peristaltic pump, or a computerized valve for fluidic or pneumatic control. The final part of the dissertation presents a novel dielectric elastomer band with integrated rigid elements for the treatment of chronic acid reflux disorders. This dielectric elastomer ring actuator consists of a two-layer stack of prestretched VHB(TM) 4905 with SWCNT electrodes. Its transverse prestretch was maintained by selective rigidification of the VHB(TM) using a UV-curable, solution-processable polymer network. The actuator exhibited a maximum vertical (circumferential) actuation strain of 25% at 3.4 kV in an 24.5 g weighted isotonic setup. It also exhibited the required passive force of 0.25 N and showed a maximum force drop of 0.11 N at 3.32 kV during isometric tests at 4.5 cm. Modeling was performed to determine the prestretches necessary to achieve maximum strain while simultaneously exerting the force of 0.25 N, which corresponds to a required pinching pressure of 3.35 kPa. Modeling also determined the spacing between and number of rigid elements required. The theoretical model curves were adjusted to account for the passive rigid elements, as well as for the addition of margins; the resulting plots agrees well with experiment. The performance of the DE band is comparable to that of living muscle, and this is the first application of dielectric elastomer actuators in the design of a medical implant for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Related applications that could result from this technology are very low-profile linear peristaltic pumps, artificial intestines, an artificial urethra, and artificial blood vessels.

Degradation of blending vulcanized natural rubber and nitril rubber (NR/NBR) by dimethyl ether through variation of elastomer ratio

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saputra, A. H.; Juneva, S.; Sari, T. I.; Cifriadi, A.

2018-04-01

Dimethyl ether can cause degradation of the rubber material seal in some applications. In order to use of natural rubber in industry, research about a blending of natural rubber (NR) and nitrile rubber (NBR) to produce rubber to meet the standard seal material application were conducted. This study will observe the degradation mechanisms that occur in the blending natural rubber and nitrile rubber (NR/NBR) by dimethyl ether. Nitrile rubber types used in this study is medium quality nitrile rubber with 33% of acrylonitrile content (NBR33). The observed parameters are percent change in mass, mechanical properties and surface morphology. This study is limited to see the effect of variation vulcanized blending ratio (NR/NBR33) against to swelling. The increase of nitrile rubber (NBR33) ratio of blending rubber vulcanized can reduce the tensile strength and elongation. The best elastomer variation was obtained after comparing with the standard feasibility material of seal is rubber vulcanized blending (NR/NBR33) with ratio 40:60 NR: NBR.

Electromechanical conversion efficiency for dielectric elastomer generator in different energy harvesting cycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Jian-Bo; E, Shi-Ju; Guo, Zhuang; Gao, Zhao; Luo, Han-Pin

2017-11-01

In order to improve electromechanical conversion efficiency for dielectric elastomer generators (DEG), on the base of studying DEG energy harvesting cycles of constant voltage, constant charge and constant electric field intensity, a new combined cycle mode and optimization theory in terms of the generating mechanism and electromechanical coupling process have been built. By controlling the switching point to achieve the best energy conversion cycle, the energy loss in the energy conversion process is reduced. DEG generating test bench which was used to carry out comparative experiments has been established. Experimental results show that the collected energy in constant voltage cycle, constant charge cycle and constant electric field intensity energy harvesting cycle decreases in turn. Due to the factors such as internal resistance losses, electrical losses and so on, actual energy values are less than the theoretical values. The electric energy conversion efficiency by combining constant electric field intensity cycle with constant charge cycle is larger than that of constant electric field intensity cycle. The relevant conclusions provide a basis for the further applications of DEG.

Influence of the geometry on magnetic interactions in a retina fixator based on a magnetoactive elastomer seal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nadzharyan, T. A.; Makarova, L. A.; Kazimirova, E. G.; Perov, N. S.; Kramarenko, E. Yu

2018-03-01

We study the effects the geometric configuration has on magnetic interactions between a magnetoactive elastomer (MAE) sample and various systems of permanent magnets for problems with both flat and curved geometry. MAEs consist of a silicone polymer matrix and iron filler microparticles embedded in it. Permanent magnets are cylindrical neodymium magnets arranged in a line on a flat or curved solid surfaces. We use computer simulations, namely the finite element method, in order to study the interaction force and magnetic pressure in a system with an MAE sample and permanent magnets. The model is based on classical Maxwell magnetostatics and two factors taking into account field dependence of MAE’s magnetic properties and inhomogeneities caused by local demagnetization. We calculate magnetic pressure dependences on various geometric parameters of the system, namely, the diameter and the height of permanent magnets, the distance between the magnets and dimensions of MAE samples. This research aims to create a set of guidelines for choosing the geometric configuration of a retina fixator based on MAE seals to be used in eye surgery for retinal detachment treatment.

Investigation on the effect of MR elastomer based adaptive vibration absorbers on the radiated sound from circular elastic plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hemmatian, M.; Sedaghati, R.

2016-04-01

This study aims to investigate the effect of using magnetorheological elastomer (MRE)-based adaptive tuned vibration absorbers (ATVA) on the sound transmission in an elastic plate. Sound transmission loss (STL) of an elastic circular thin plate is analytically studied. The plate is excited by a plane acoustic wave as an incident sound and the displacement of the plate is calculated using corresponding mode shapes of the system for clamped boundary condition. Rayleigh integral approach is used to express the transmitted sound pressure in terms of the plate's displacement modal amplitude. In order to increase sound transmission loss of the plate, the MRE-based ATVA is considered. The basic idea is to be able to change the stiffness of the ATVA by varying magnetic field in order to reduce the transmitted acoustic energy of the host structure in a wide frequency range. Here, a MRE-based ATVA under the shear mode consisting of an oscillator mass, magnetic conductor, coils and MRE is investigated. In order to predict the viscoelastic characteristics of the field-dependent MRE based on the applied magnetic field, the double pole model is used. Finally, MRE-based ATVAs are integrated with the plate to absorb the plate energy with the aim of decreasing the transmitted sound power. Results show that plate with integrated MRE-based ATVAs suppresses the axisymmetric vibration of the plate and thus considerably improves the STL. Parametric studies on the influence of the position of MRE-based ATVAs and the effects of applied current on their performance are also presented.

21 CFR 177.1590 - Polyester elastomers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... alpha-hydroomega-hydroxypoly (oxytetramethylene) and/or 1,4-butanediol such that the finished elastomer... physical properties may include the following substances: List of substances Limitations 4,4′ - Bis (alpha, alpha-dimethyl-benzyl) diphenylamine For use only as an antioxidant. Tetrabutyl titanate For use only as...

Liquid-Embedded Elastomer Electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kramer, Rebecca; Majidi, Carmel; Park, Yong-Lae; Paik, Jamie; Wood, Robert

2012-02-01

Hyperelastic sensors are fabricated by embedding a silicone rubber film with microchannels of conductive liquid. In the case of soft tactile sensors, pressing the surface of the elastomer will deform the cross-section of underlying channels and change their electrical resistance. Soft pressure sensors may be employed in a variety of applications. For example, a network of pressure sensors can serve as artificial skin by yielding detailed information about contact pressures. This concept was demonstrated in a hyperelastic keypad, where perpendicular conductive channels form a quasi-planar network within an elastomeric matrix that registers the location, intensity and duration of applied pressure. In a second demonstration, soft curvature sensors were used for joint angle proprioception. Because the sensors are soft and stretchable, they conform to the host without interfering with the natural mechanics of motion. This marked the first use of liquid-embedded elastomer electronics to monitor human or robotic motion. Finally, liquid-embedded elastomers may be implemented as conductors in applications that call for flexible or stretchable circuitry, such as robotic origami.

Polysiloxane-based luminescent elastomers prepared by thiol-ene "click" chemistry.

PubMed

Zuo, Yujing; Lu, Haifeng; Xue, Lei; Wang, Xianming; Wu, Lianfeng; Feng, Shengyu

2014-09-26

Side-chain vinyl poly(dimethylsiloxane) has been modified with mercaptopropionic acid, methyl 3-mercaptopropionate, and mercaptosuccinic acid. Coordinative bonding of Eu(III) to the functionalized polysiloxanes was then carried out and crosslinked silicone elastomers were prepared by thiol-ene curing reactions of these composites. All these europium complexes could be cast to form transparent, uniform, thin elastomers with good flexibility and thermal stability. The networks were characterized by FTIR, NMR, UV/Vis, and luminescence spectroscopy as well as by scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The europium elastomer luminophores exhibited intense red light at 617 nm under UV excitation at room temperature due to the (5)D0 →(7)F2 transition in Eu(III) ions. The newly synthesized luminescent materials offer many advantages, including the desired mechanical flexibility. They cannot be dissolved or fused, and so they have potential for use in optical and electronic applications. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Delpassand, M.S.

The power section of a mud driven progressing cavity drill motors consists of a steel rotor shaped with an external helix rotating within a stationary tube with a molded helical elastomeric lining (stator). Operating temperature of the elastomer lining is an important parameter that affects the stator life. Motor operating conditions such as down hole temperature, torque, differential pressure, and speed determine the elastomer temperature. This paper presents an analysis technique to predict stator elastomer temperature as a function of the motor`s operating parameters. A non-linear finite element analysis technique is used to predict the stator temperature. Physical and mechanicalmore » properties of the elastomer are measured, using laboratory equipment such as Monsanto`s RPA2000 dynamic analyzer and BFGoodrich model (II) flexometer. Boundary conditions of the finite element model are defined based on the down hole temperature, differential pressure, and the motor`s speed. Results of the finite element analysis are compared with laboratory test data to verify the accuracy of the analysis.« less

Opto-mechanical analysis of nonlinear elastomer membrane deformation under hydraulic pressure for variable-focus liquid-filled microlenses.

PubMed

Choi, Seung Tae; Son, Byeong Soo; Seo, Gye Won; Park, Si-Young; Lee, Kyung-Sick

2014-03-10

Nonlinear large deformation of a transparent elastomer membrane under hydraulic pressure was analyzed to investigate its optical performance for a variable-focus liquid-filled membrane microlens. In most membrane microlenses, actuators control the hydraulic pressure of optical fluid so that the elastomer membrane together with the internal optical fluid changes its shape, which alters the light path of the microlens to adapt its optical power. A fluid-structure interaction simulation was performed to estimate the transient behavior of the microlens under the operation of electroactive polymer actuators, demonstrating that the viscosity of the optical fluid successfully stabilizes the fluctuations within a fairly short period of time during dynamic operations. Axisymmetric nonlinear plate theory was used to calculate the deformation profile of the membrane under hydrostatic pressure, with which optical characteristics of the membrane microlens were estimated. The effects of gravitation and viscoelastic behavior of the elastomer membrane on the optical performance of the membrane microlens were also evaluated with finite element analysis.

Model For Bending Actuators That Use Electrostrictive Graft Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Costen, Robert C.; Su, Ji; Harrison, Joycelyn S.

2001-01-01

Recently, it was reported that an electrostrictive graft elastomer exhibits large electric field-induced strain (4%). Combined with its high mechanical modulus, the elastomer can offer very promising electromechanical properties, in terms of output mechanical energy density, for an electroactive polymeric material. Therefore, it has been considered as one of the candidates that can be used in high performance, low mass actuation devices in many aerospace applications. Various bilayer- based bending actuators have been designed and fabricated. An analytic model based on beam theory in the strength of materials has been derived for the transverse deflection, or curvature, and the longitudinal strain of the bi-layer beam. The curvature and strain are functions of the applied voltage and the thickness, width, and Young s modulus of the active and passive layers. The model can be used to optimize the performance of electrostrictive graft elastomer-based actuators to meet the requirements of various applications. In this presentation, optimization and sensitivity studies are applied to the bending performance of such actuators.

Pressure-volume characteristics of dielectric elastomer diaphragms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tews, Alyson M.; Pope, Kimberly L.; Snyder, Alan J.

2003-07-01

With the ultimate goal of constructing diaphragm-type pumps, we have measured pressure-volume characteristics of single-layer dielectric elastomers diaphragms. Circular dielectric elastomer diaphragms were prepared by biaxial stretching of 3M VHB 4905 polyacrylate, or spin casting and modest or no biaxial stretching of silicone rubber films, followed by mounting to a sealed chamber having a 3.8 cm diameter opening. Pressure-volume characteristics were measured at voltages that provided field strengths up to 80 MV/m in un-deformed VHB films and 50-75 MV/m in silicone films. The most highly pre-strained VHB diaphragms were found to have linear pressure-volume characteristics whose slopes (diaphragm compliance) depended sensitively upon applied field at higher field strengths. Compliance of unstretched silicone diaphragms was nearly independent of field strength at the fields tested, but pressure-volume characteristics shifted markedly. For both kinds of dielectric elastomers, pressure-volume work loops of significant size can be obtained for certain operating pressures. Each type of diaphragm may have advantages in certain applications.

The shape-memory effect in ionic elastomers: fixation through ionic interactions.

PubMed

González-Jiménez, Antonio; Malmierca, Marta A; Bernal-Ortega, Pilar; Posadas, Pilar; Pérez-Aparicio, Roberto; Marcos-Fernández, Ángel; Mather, Patrick T; Valentín, Juan L

2017-04-19

Shape-memory elastomers based on a commercial rubber cross-linked by both ionic and covalent bonds have been developed. The elastomeric matrix was a carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR) vulcanized with magnesium oxide (MgO) providing ionic interactions that form hierarchical structures. The so-named ionic transition is used as the unique thermal transition responsible for the shape-memory effect (SME) in these elastomers. These ionic interactions fix the temporary shape due to their behavior as dynamic cross-links with temperature changes. Covalent cross-links were incorporated with the addition of different proportions of dicumyl peroxide (DCP) to the ionic elastomer to establish and recover the permanent shape. In this article, the SME was modulated by modifying the degree of covalent cross-linking, while keeping the ionic contribution constant. In addition, different programming parameters, such as deformation temperature, heating/cooling rate, loading/unloading rate and percentage of tensile strain, were evaluated for their effects on shape-memory behavior.

Replica molding-based nanopatterning of tribocharge on elastomer with application to electrohydrodynamic nanolithography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Qiang; Peer, Akshit; Cho, In Ho

Replica molding often induces tribocharge on elastomers. To date, this phenomenon has been studied only on untextured elastomer surfaces even though replica molding is an effective method for their nanotexturing. Here we show that on elastomer surfaces nanotextured through replica molding the induced tribocharge also becomes patterned at nanoscale in close correlation with the nanotexture. Here, by applying Kelvin probe microscopy, electrohydrodynamic lithography, and electrostatic analysis to our model nanostructure, poly(dimethylsiloxane) nanocup arrays replicated from a polycarbonate nanocone array, we reveal that the induced tribocharge is highly localized within the nanocup, especially around its rim. Through finite element analysis, wemore » also find that the rim sustains the strongest friction during the demolding process. From these findings, we identify the demolding-induced friction as the main factor governing the tribocharge’s nanoscale distribution pattern. Finally, by incorporating the resulting annular tribocharge into electrohydrodynamic lithography, we also accomplish facile realization of nanovolcanos with 10 nm-scale craters.« less

Simultaneous Detection of Displacement, Rotation Angle, and Contact Pressure Using Sandpaper Molded Elastomer Based Triple Electrode Sensor

PubMed Central

Sul, Onejae; Lee, Seung-Beck

2017-01-01

In this article, we report on a flexible sensor based on a sandpaper molded elastomer that simultaneously detects planar displacement, rotation angle, and vertical contact pressure. When displacement, rotation, and contact pressure are applied, the contact area between the translating top elastomer electrode and the stationary three bottom electrodes change characteristically depending on the movement, making it possible to distinguish between them. The sandpaper molded undulating surface of the elastomer reduces friction at the contact allowing the sensor not to affect the movement during measurement. The sensor showed a 0.25 mm−1 displacement sensitivity with a ±33 μm accuracy, a 0.027 degree−1 of rotation sensitivity with ~0.95 degree accuracy, and a 4.96 kP−1 of pressure sensitivity. For possible application to joint movement detection, we demonstrated that our sensor effectively detected the up-and-down motion of a human forefinger and the bending and straightening motion of a human arm. PMID:28878166

Simultaneous Detection of Displacement, Rotation Angle, and Contact Pressure Using Sandpaper Molded Elastomer Based Triple Electrode Sensor.

PubMed

Choi, Eunsuk; Sul, Onejae; Lee, Seung-Beck

2017-09-06

In this article, we report on a flexible sensor based on a sandpaper molded elastomer that simultaneously detects planar displacement, rotation angle, and vertical contact pressure. When displacement, rotation, and contact pressure are applied, the contact area between the translating top elastomer electrode and the stationary three bottom electrodes change characteristically depending on the movement, making it possible to distinguish between them. The sandpaper molded undulating surface of the elastomer reduces friction at the contact allowing the sensor not to affect the movement during measurement. The sensor showed a 0.25 mm −1 displacement sensitivity with a ±33 μm accuracy, a 0.027 degree −1 of rotation sensitivity with ~0.95 degree accuracy, and a 4.96 kP −1 of pressure sensitivity. For possible application to joint movement detection, we demonstrated that our sensor effectively detected the up-and-down motion of a human forefinger and the bending and straightening motion of a human arm.

A dielectric elastomer actuator coupled with water: snap-through instability and giant deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godaba, Hareesh; Foo, Choon Chiang; Zhang, Zhi Qian; Khoo, Boo Cheong; Zhu, Jian

2015-04-01

A dielectric elastomer actuator is one class of soft actuators which can deform in response to voltage. Dielectric elastomer actuators coupled with liquid have recently been developed as soft pumps, soft lenses, Braille displays, etc. In this paper, we conduct experiments to investigate the performance of a dielectric elastomer actuator which is coupled with water. The membrane is subject to a constant water pressure, which is found to significantly affect the electromechanical behaviour of the membrane. When the pressure is small, the membrane suffers electrical breakdown before snap-through instability, and achieves a small voltage-induced deformation. When the pressure is higher to make the membrane near the verge of the instability, the membrane can achieve a giant voltage-induced deformation, with an area strain of 1165%. When the pressure is large, the membrane suffers pressure-induced snap-through instability and may collapse due to a large amount of liquid enclosed by the membrane. Theoretical analyses are conducted to interpret these experimental observations.

Replica molding-based nanopatterning of tribocharge on elastomer with application to electrohydrodynamic nanolithography

DOE PAGES

Li, Qiang; Peer, Akshit; Cho, In Ho; ...

2018-03-02

Replica molding often induces tribocharge on elastomers. To date, this phenomenon has been studied only on untextured elastomer surfaces even though replica molding is an effective method for their nanotexturing. Here we show that on elastomer surfaces nanotextured through replica molding the induced tribocharge also becomes patterned at nanoscale in close correlation with the nanotexture. Here, by applying Kelvin probe microscopy, electrohydrodynamic lithography, and electrostatic analysis to our model nanostructure, poly(dimethylsiloxane) nanocup arrays replicated from a polycarbonate nanocone array, we reveal that the induced tribocharge is highly localized within the nanocup, especially around its rim. Through finite element analysis, wemore » also find that the rim sustains the strongest friction during the demolding process. From these findings, we identify the demolding-induced friction as the main factor governing the tribocharge’s nanoscale distribution pattern. Finally, by incorporating the resulting annular tribocharge into electrohydrodynamic lithography, we also accomplish facile realization of nanovolcanos with 10 nm-scale craters.« less

Evaluation of a Conductive Elastomer Seal for Spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daniels, C. C.; Mather, J. L.; Oravec, H. A.; Dunlap, P. H., Jr.

2016-01-01

An electrically conductive elastomer was evaluated as a material candidate for a spacecraft seal. The elastomer used electrically conductive constituents as a means to reduce the resistance between mating interfaces of a sealed joint to meet spacecraft electrical bonding requirements. The compound's outgassing levels were compared against published NASA requirements. The compound was formed into a hollow O-ring seal and its compression set was measured. The O-ring seal was placed into an interface and the electrical resistance and leak rate were quantified. The amount of force required to fully compress the test article in the sealing interface and the force needed to separate the joint were also measured. The outgassing and resistance measurements were below the maximum allowable levels. The room temperature compression set and leak rates were fairly high when compared against other typical spacecraft seal materials, but were not excessive. The compression and adhesion forces were desirably low. Overall, the performance of the elastomer compound was sufficient to be considered for future spacecraft seal applications.

Tailoring chain length and cross-link density in dielectric elastomer toward enhanced actuation strain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Quan-Ping; Liu, Jun-Hua; Liu, Hai-Dong; Jia, Fei; Zhou, Yuan-Lin; Zheng, Jian

2017-10-01

Adding ceramic or conductive fillers into polymers for increasing permittivity is a direct and effective approach to enhance the actuation strain of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs). Unfortunately, the major dielectric loss caused by weak interfaces potentially harms the electro-mechanical stability and lifetime of DEAs. Here, we construct a desired macromolecular network with a long chain length and low cross-link density to reduce the elastic modulus of silicone elastomers. Selecting a high molecular weight of polymethylvinylsiloxane and a low dose of the cross-linker leads the soft but tough networks with rich entanglements, poor cross-links, and a low amount of defects. Then, a ductile material with low elastic modulus but high elongation at break is obtained. It accounts for much more excellent actuation strain of Hl in comparison to that of the other silicone elastomers. Importantly, without other fillers, the ultralow dielectric loss, conductivity, and firm networks possibly promote the electro-mechanical stability and lifetime for the DEA application.

Effect of nano-oxide concentration on the mechanical properties of a maxillofacial silicone elastomer.

PubMed

Han, Ying; Kiat-amnuay, Sudarat; Powers, John M; Zhao, Yimin

2008-12-01

Contemporary silicone-based elastomeric prostheses tend to degrade over time because of the effect of mechanical loading. Little has been reported on how the mechanical properties of a maxillofacial prosthetic elastomer may be affected by the addition of nanosized oxide particles used as an opacifier. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of nanosized oxides of various composition on the mechanical properties of a commercially available silicone elastomer. Nanosized oxides (Ti, Zn, or Ce) were added in various concentrations (0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%, 2.5%, or 3.0% by weight) to a commercial silicone elastomer (A-2186), commonly used for fabricating extraoral maxillofacial prostheses. Silicone elastomer A-2186 without nanosized oxides served as a control group. Specimens (n=5) were polymerized according to manufacturer's recommendations and tested for tensile strength (ASTM D412) and tear strength (ASTM D624), and percent elongation in a universal testing machine. Uniformity of particle dispersion within the processed elastomer was assessed using scanning electron microscopic imaging. For each property, a 2-way ANOVA was performed evaluating the effect of oxide type and strength, and Fisher's PLSD test was used for pairwise comparisons (alpha=.05). SEM examination indicated that all 3 nanosized oxides distribute evenly throughout the silicone specimens, except for the 3.0% group, which are partly agglomerated. The 2.0% and 2.5% groups of all nanosized oxides demonstrated significantly higher tensile and tear strengths and percent elongation (P<.001) than the control group. CeO(2) had significantly lower tensile strength than TiO2 and ZnO (P<.05). The ZnO group had significantly higher tear strength than TiO(2) and CeO(2) (P <.05). Most of specimens became somewhat harder when compared with the control group. CeO(2) group had significantly higher Shore A hardness than TiO(2) and ZnO (P<.001). There was no significant difference of percent elongation among the type of nanosized oxides. Incorporation of Ti, Zn, or Ce nano-oxides at concentrations of 2.0% and 2.5% improved the overall mechanical properties of the silicone A-2186 maxillofacial elastomer.

Hugoniot-based equations of state for two filled EPDM rubbers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pacheco, A. H.; Dattelbaum, D. M.; Orler, E. B.; Bartram, B. D.; Gustavsen, R. L.

2014-05-01

Particle-filled elastomers are commonly used as engineering components due to their ability to provide structural support via their elastic mechanical response. Even small amounts of particle fillers are known to increase the mechanical strength of elastomers due to polymer-filler interactions. In this work, the shock response of two filled (SiO2 or silica and KevlarTMfillers) ethylene-propylene-diene (EPDM) rubbers were studied using single and two-stage gas gun-driven plate impact experiments. Hugoniot states were determined using standard plate impact methods. Both filled-EPDM elastomers exhibit high compressibility under shock loading and have a response similar to adiprene rubber.

A removable silicone elastomer seal reduces granulation tissue growth and maintains the sterility of recording chambers for primate neurophysiology

PubMed Central

Spitler, Kevin M.; Gothard, Katalin M.

2008-01-01

The maintenance of the sterility of craniotomies for serial acute neurophysiological recordings is exacting and time consuming yet is vital to the health of valuable experimental animals. We have developed a method to seal the craniotomy with surgical grade silicone elastomer (Silastic®) in a hermetically sealed chamber. Under these conditions the tissues in the craniotomy and the inside surface of the chamber remain unpopulated by bacteria. The silicone elastomer sealant retarded the growth of granulation tissue on the dura and reduced the procedures required to maintain ideal conditions for neurophysiological recordings. PMID:18241928

Electrothermal actuation based on carbon nanotube network in silicone elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, L. Z.; Liu, C. H.; Hu, C. H.; Fan, S. S.

2008-06-01

The authors report an electrothermal actuator, which is fabricated by involving carbon nanotube network into the silicone elastomer. The actuators exhibit excellent performances as good as normal dielectric elastomer actuators while working under much lower voltages (e.g., 1.5Vmm-1). They are longitudinal actuators and there is no need for stacking or rolling sheets of materials. In addition, they can satisfy the demand of different voltage applications ranging from dozens of voltages to thousands of voltages by using different carbon nanotube loading composites. Visible maximal strain of 4.4% occurs at an electric power intensity around 0.03Wmm-3.

Hemispherical breathing mode speaker using a dielectric elastomer actuator.

PubMed

Hosoya, Naoki; Baba, Shun; Maeda, Shingo

2015-10-01

Although indoor acoustic characteristics should ideally be assessed by measuring the reverberation time using a point sound source, a regular polyhedron loudspeaker, which has multiple loudspeakers on a chassis, is typically used. However, such a configuration is not a point sound source if the size of the loudspeaker is large relative to the target sound field. This study investigates a small lightweight loudspeaker using a dielectric elastomer actuator vibrating in the breathing mode (the pulsating mode such as the expansion and contraction of a balloon). Acoustic testing with regard to repeatability, sound pressure, vibration mode profiles, and acoustic radiation patterns indicate that dielectric elastomer loudspeakers may be feasible.

Structural Characteristics and Swelling Mechanism of Two Commercial Nitrile-Butadiene Elastomers in Various Fluids

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-06

polyacrylonitrile, -(CH2=CH- C ≡ N )- n and polybutadiene, -(CH2-CH=CH-CH2)- n . The characteristics of a given elastomer are therefore expected to depend on the...presence of the nitrile (cyano) - C ≡ N group which is known to yield a sharp peak at 2235 cm-1 in IR spectra. The presence of the line due to C = C double bond...70 and N0741-75 obtained using KBr pellet method are shown in Fig. 2. In the IR spectra of both elastomers, the nitrile (- C ≡ N ) band at 2235 cm-1 is

Soft Ultrathin Electronics Innervated Adaptive Fully Soft Robots.

PubMed

Wang, Chengjun; Sim, Kyoseung; Chen, Jin; Kim, Hojin; Rao, Zhoulyu; Li, Yuhang; Chen, Weiqiu; Song, Jizhou; Verduzco, Rafael; Yu, Cunjiang

2018-03-01

Soft robots outperform the conventional hard robots on significantly enhanced safety, adaptability, and complex motions. The development of fully soft robots, especially fully from smart soft materials to mimic soft animals, is still nascent. In addition, to date, existing soft robots cannot adapt themselves to the surrounding environment, i.e., sensing and adaptive motion or response, like animals. Here, compliant ultrathin sensing and actuating electronics innervated fully soft robots that can sense the environment and perform soft bodied crawling adaptively, mimicking an inchworm, are reported. The soft robots are constructed with actuators of open-mesh shaped ultrathin deformable heaters, sensors of single-crystal Si optoelectronic photodetectors, and thermally responsive artificial muscle of carbon-black-doped liquid-crystal elastomer (LCE-CB) nanocomposite. The results demonstrate that adaptive crawling locomotion can be realized through the conjugation of sensing and actuation, where the sensors sense the environment and actuators respond correspondingly to control the locomotion autonomously through regulating the deformation of LCE-CB bimorphs and the locomotion of the robots. The strategy of innervating soft sensing and actuating electronics with artificial muscles paves the way for the development of smart autonomous soft robots. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Polypropylene Composites Reinforced with Lignocellulose Nanofibers Dried in Melted Ethylene-Butene Copolymer

PubMed Central

Iwamoto, Shinichiro; Yamamoto, Shigehiro; Lee, Seung-Hwan; Ito, Hirokazu; Endo, Takashi

2014-01-01

Lignocellulose nanofibers were prepared by the wet disk milling of wood flour. First, an ethylene-butene copolymer was pre-compounded with wood flour or lignocellulose nanofibers to prepare master batches. This process involved evaporating the water of the lignocellulose nanofiber suspension during compounding with ethylene-butene copolymer by heating at 105 °C. These master batches were compounded again with polypropylene to obtain the final composites. Since ethylene-butene copolymer is an elastomer, its addition increased the impact strength of polypropylene but decreased the stiffness. In contrast, the wood flour- and lignocellulose nanofiber-reinforced composites showed significantly higher flexural moduli and slightly higher flexural yield stresses than did the ethylene-butene/polypropylene blends. Further, the wood flour composites exhibited brittle fractures during tensile tests and had lower impact strengths than those of the ethylene-butene/polypropylene blends. On the other hand, the addition of the lignocellulose nanofibers did not decrease the impact strength of the ethylene-butene/polypropylene blends. Finally, the addition of wood flour and the lignocellulose nanofibers increased the crystallization temperature and crystallization rate of polypropylene. The increases were more remarkable in the case of the lignocellulose nanofibers than for wood flour. PMID:28788222

Dispersion relation for electromagnetic propagation in stochastic dielectric and magnetic helical photonic crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avendaño, Carlos G.; Reyes, Arturo

2017-03-01

We theoretically study the dispersion relation for axially propagating electromagnetic waves throughout a one-dimensional helical structure whose pitch and dielectric and magnetic properties are spatial random functions with specific statistical characteristics. In the system of coordinates rotating with the helix, by using a matrix formalism, we write the set of differential equations that governs the expected value of the electromagnetic field amplitudes and we obtain the corresponding dispersion relation. We show that the dispersion relation depends strongly on the noise intensity introduced in the system and the autocorrelation length. When the autocorrelation length increases at fixed fluctuation and when the fluctuation augments at fixed autocorrelation length, the band gap widens and the attenuation coefficient of electromagnetic waves propagating in the random medium gets larger. By virtue of the degeneracy in the imaginary part of the eigenvalues associated with the propagating modes, the random medium acts as a filter for circularly polarized electromagnetic waves, in which only the propagating backward circularly polarized wave can propagate with no attenuation. Our results are valid for any kind of dielectric and magnetic structures which possess a helical-like symmetry such as cholesteric and chiral smectic-C liquid crystals, structurally chiral materials, and stressed cholesteric elastomers.

Topological defects in liquid crystals and molecular self-assembly (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abbott, Nicholas L.

2017-02-01

Topological defects in liquid crystals (LCs) have been widely used to organize colloidal dispersions and template polymerizations, leading to a range of elastomers and gels with complex mechanical and optical properties. However, little is understood about molecular-level assembly processes within defects. This presentation will describe an experimental study that reveals that nanoscopic environments defined by LC topological defects can selectively trigger processes of molecular self-assembly. By using fluorescence microscopy, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy and super-resolution optical microscopy, key signatures of molecular self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules in topological defects are observed - including cooperativity, reversibility, and controlled growth of the molecular assemblies. By using polymerizable amphiphiles, we also demonstrate preservation of molecular assemblies templated by defects, including nanoscopic "o-rings" synthesized from "Saturn-ring" disclinations. Our results reveal that topological defects in LCs are a versatile class of three-dimensional, dynamic and reconfigurable templates that can direct processes of molecular self-assembly in a manner that is strongly analogous to other classes of macromolecular templates (e.g., polymer—surfactant complexes). Opportunities for the design of exquisitely responsive soft materials will be discussed using bacterial endotoxin as an example.

Electrical conductivity, dielectric response and space charge dynamics of an electroactive polymer with and without nanofiller reinforcement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kochetov, R.; Tsekmes, I. A.; Morshuis, P. H. F.

2015-07-01

Electroactive polymers have gained considerable attention over the last 20 years for exhibiting a large displacement in response to electrical stimulation. The promising fields of application include wave energy converters, muscle-like actuators, sensors, robotics, and biomimetics. For an electrical engineer, electroactive polymers can be seen as a dielectric elastomer film or a compliant capacitor with a highly deformable elastomeric medium. If the elastomer is pre-stretched and pre-charged, a reduction of the tensile force lets the elastomer revert to its original form and increases the electrical potential. The light weight of electroactive polymers, low cost, high intrinsic breakdown strength, cyclical way of operation, reliable performance, and high efficiency can be exploited to utilize the elastomeric material as a transducer. The energy storage for a linear dielectric polymer is determined by its relative permittivity and the applied electric field. The latter is limited by the dielectric breakdown strength of the material. Therefore, to generate a high energy density of a flexible capacitor, the film must be used at the voltage level close to the material’s breakdown or inorganic particles with high dielectric permittivity which can be introduced into the polymer matrix. In the present study, silicone-titania elastomer nanocomposites were produced and the influence of nanoparticles on the macroscopic dielectric properties of the neat elastomer including space charge dynamics, complex permittivity, and electrical conductivity, were investigated.

Use of VUV Radiation to Control Elastomer Seal Adhesion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

deGroh, Henry C., III; Puleo, Bernadette J.; Waters, Deborah L.

2013-01-01

Due to their wide operating temperatures and low leakage rates, silicone elastomers are the only class of flight qualified elastomer materials that currently meet NASA's needs for various seal applications, which include docking and hatch seals for future space exploration vehicles. However, silicone elastomers are naturally sticky and exhibit sizeable adhesion when mated against metals and other silicone surfaces. This undesirable adhesion can make undocking spacecraft or opening a hatch problematic. Two approaches that can be used to reduce seal adhesion include use of grease or, application of low doses of atomic oxygen (AO). This paper investigates a third approach: the application of light doses of vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) radiation. Presented are the adhesion and leakage characteristics of S0383-70 silicone elastomer exposed to various VUV doses in the 115 to 200 nm wavelength range. The data indicate that adhesion is expected to be less than the target threshold maximum of 2 lb/in(exp2) after about 1 J/cm(exp2) of VUV exposure for seal-to-metal configurations and after 2 J/cm(exp2) for seal-to-seal configurations with no significant damage, or increase in seal leakage. This paper shows that VUV, without AO or grease, can be an effective means to reduce adhesion to the desired levels necessary for space seals with minimal change in seal leak rates.

Biomechanical properties of nano-TiO(2) addition to a medical silicone elastomer: the effect of artificial ageing.

PubMed

Wang, Linlin; Liu, Qi; Jing, Dongdong; Zhou, Shanyu; Shao, Longquan

2014-04-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the mechanical and anti-ageing properties of a medical silicone elastomer and to assess the biocompatibility of this novel combination. TiO2 (P25, Degussa, Germany) nanoparticles were mixed with the silicone elastomer (MDX4-4210, Dow Corning, USA) at 2%, 4%, and 6% (w/w) using silicone fluid as diluent (Q7-9180, Dow Corning, USA). Blank silicone elastomer served as the control material. The physical properties and biocompatibility of the composites were examined. The tensile strength was tested for 0% and 6% (w/w) before and after artificial ageing. SEM analysis was performed. TiO2 nanoparticles improved the tensile strength and Shore A hardness of the silicone elastomer (P<0.05). However, a decrease in the elongation at break and tear strength was found for the 6% (w/w) composite (P<0.05). All the ageing methods had no effect on the tensile strength of the 6% (w/w) composite (P>0.05), but thermal ageing significantly decreased the tensile strength of the control group (P<0.05). Cellular viability assays indicated that the composite exhibited biocompatibility. We obtained a promising restorative material which yields favourable physical and anti-ageing properties and is biocompatible in our in vitro cellular studies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Complaint liquid metal electrodes for dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Finkenauer, Lauren R.; Majidi, Carmel

2014-03-01

This work presents a liquid-phase metal electrode to be used with poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) for a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA). DEAs are favorable for soft-matter applications where high efficiency and response times are desirable. A consistent challenge faced during the fabrication of these devices is the selection and deposition of electrode material. While numerous designs have been demonstrated with a variety of conductive elastomers and greases, these materials have significant and often intrinsic shortcomings, e.g. low conductivity, hysteresis, incapability of large deformations, and complex fabrication requirements. The liquid metal alloy eutectic Gallium-Indium (EGaIn) is a promising alternative to existing compliant electrodes, having both high conductivity and complete soft-matter functionality. The liquid electrode shares almost the same electrical conductivity as conventional metal wiring and provides no mechanical resistance to bending or stretching of the DEA. This research establishes a straightforward and effective method for quickly depositing EGaIn electrodes, which can be adapted for batch fabrication, and demonstrates the successful actuation of sample curved cantilever elastomer actuators using these electrodes. As with the vast majority of electrostatically actuated elastomer devices, the voltage requirements for these curved DEAs are still quite significant, though modifications to the fabrication process show some improved electrical properties. The ease and speed with which this method can be implemented suggests that the development of a more electronically efficient device is realistic and worthwhile.

Space Environment's Effects on Seal Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

deGroh, Henry C., III; Daniels, Christopher C.; Dunlap, Patrick; Miller, Sharon; Dever, Joyce; Waters, Deborah; Steinetz, Bruce M.

2007-01-01

A Low Impact Docking System (LIDS) is being developed by the NASA Johnson Space Center to support future missions of the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV). The LIDS is androgynous, such that each system half is identical, thus any two vehicles or modules with LIDS can be coupled. Since each system half is a replica, the main interface seals must seal against each other instead of a conventional flat metal surface. These sealing surfaces are also expected to be exposed to the space environment when vehicles are not docked. The NASA Glenn Research Center (NASA GRC) is supporting this project by developing the main interface seals for the LIDS and determining the durability of candidate seal materials in the space environment. In space, the seals will be exposed to temperatures of between 50 to 50 C, vacuum, atomic oxygen, particle and ultraviolet radiation, and micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD). NASA GRC is presently engaged in determining the effects of these environments on our candidate elastomers. Since silicone rubber is the only class of seal elastomer that functions across the expected temperature range, NASA GRC is focusing on three silicone elastomers: two provided by Parker Hannifin (S0-899-50 and S0-383-70) and one from Esterline Kirkhill (ELA-SA-401). Our results from compression set, elastomer to elastomer adhesion, and seal leakage tests before and after various simulated space exposures will be presented.

Evaluation of Biobased Hydraulic Fluids in Military Construction Equipment

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-10-31

systems. They are basically divided into two groups. One is natural rubber and the other one is a synthetic elastomer. Their formulations and physical...compatibility test. This reference elastomer was specially formulated with Nitrile or Buna N ( NBR -L) material and is widely used in the many

Molding Compound For Inspection Of Internal Contours

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, Jim; Ricklefs, Steve

1988-01-01

Material clean, sets rapidly, and easy to use. Silicone elastomer, Citrocon or equivalent, commonly used in dentistry, in combination with mold-release agent (Also see MFS-29240), speeds and facilitates making of impressions of interior surfaces so surface contours examined. Elastomer easily moved around in cavity until required location found.

40 CFR 63.494 - Back-end process provisions-residual organic HAP and emission limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... producing butyl rubber, epichlorohydrin elastomer, neoprene, and nitrile butadiene rubber shall not exceed... processes at affected sources producing butyl rubber, epichlorohydrin elastomer, neoprene, and nitrile... submitted in accordance with § 63.499(f)(1). (i) For butyl rubber, the organic HAP emission limitation shall...

Use of elastomers in regenerative braking systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

The storage of potential energy as strain energy in elastomers was investigated. The evolution of the preferred stressing scheme is described, and test results on full-size elastomeric energy storage units sized for an automotive regenerative braking system application are presented. The need for elastomeric material improvements is also discussed.

Antimicrobial gelatin-based elastomer nanocomposite membrane loaded with ciprofloxacin and polymyxin B sulfate in halloysite nanotubes for wound dressing.

PubMed

Shi, Rui; Niu, Yuzhao; Gong, Min; Ye, Jingjing; Tian, Wei; Zhang, Liqun

2018-06-01

Bacterial infection is a major problem world-wide, especially in wound treatment where it can severely prolong the healing process. In this study, a double drug co-delivery elastic antibacterial nanocomposite was developed by combining ciprofloxacin (CPX) and polymyxin B sulfate-loaded halloysite clay nanotubes (HNTs-B) into a gelatin elastomer. CPX nanoparticles which act against both gram positive and gram-negative bacterium were dispersed directly in the matrix, and polymyxin B sulfate was loaded in HNTs and then distributed into the matrix. The effect of CPX and HNTs-B content on the physical properties, cytotoxicity, fibroblast adhesion and proliferation, in vitro drug release behavior and anti-bacterial properties were systematically investigated. The ciprofloxacin crystals and HNT-B were distributed in the matrix uniformly. The HNTs in the drug loading system not only enhanced the matrix' tensile strength but also slowed down the release rate of the high dissoluble polymyxin B sulfate. When the amount of HNT in the matrix increased, the thermal stability and tensile strength also increased but the polymyxin B sulfate release rate decreased because the HNTs prevented the drug release inside. All the nanocomposites exhibited antimicrobial activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria with the dual combination of drugs released from the nanocomposites. Furthermore, this kind of gelatin-based nanocomposites possesses higher water-absorbing quality, low cytotoxicity, adaptable biodegradability and good elasticity which can satisfy the requirements for an ideal biomaterial for use in wound healing applications. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Reversible Rigidity Control Using Low Melting Temperature Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shan, Wanliang; Lu, Tong; Majidi, Carmel

2013-03-01

Inspired by nature, materials able to achieve rapid rigidity changes have important applications for human body protection in military and many other areas. This talk presents the fabrication and design of soft-matter technologies that exhibit rapid reversible rigidity control. Fabricated with a masked deposition technique, the soft-matter composite contains liquid-phase and phase-changing metal alloys embedded in a soft and highly stretchable elastomer. The composite material can reversibly change its rigidity by three orders of magnitude and sustain large deformation.

Manufacturing of Liquid-Embedded Elastomers for Stretchable Electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kramer, Rebecca; Majidi, Carmel; Weaver, James; Wood, Robert

2013-03-01

Future generations of robots, electronics, and assistive medical devices will include systems that are soft, elastically deformable, and may adapt their functionality in unstructured environments. This will require soft active materials for power circuits and sensing of deformation and contact pressure. As the demand for increased elasticity of electrical components heightens, the challenges for functionality revert to basic questions of fabrication, materials, and design. Several designs for soft sensory skins (including strain, pressure and curvature sensors) based on a liquid-embedded-elastomer approach have been developed. This talk will highlight new ``soft MEMS'' manufacturing techniques based on wetting behavior between gallium-indium alloys and elastomers with varying microtextured surface topography. Supported by Harvard MRSEC and the Wyss Institute

Design of a rotary dielectric elastomer actuator using a topology optimization method based on pairs of curves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Nianfeng; Guo, Hao; Chen, Bicheng; Cui, Chaoyu; Zhang, Xianmin

2018-05-01

Dielectric elastomers (DE), known as electromechanical transducers, have been widely used in the field of sensors, generators, actuators and energy harvesting for decades. A large number of DE actuators including bending actuators, linear actuators and rotational actuators have been designed utilizing an experience design method. This paper proposes a new method for the design of DE actuators by using a topology optimization method based on pairs of curves. First, theoretical modeling and optimization design are discussed, after which a rotary dielectric elastomer actuator has been designed using this optimization method. Finally, experiments and comparisons between several DE actuators have been made to verify the optimized result.

Miniature solid-state gas compressor

DOEpatents

Lawless, W.N.; Cross, L.E.; Steyert, W.A.

1985-05-07

A miniature apparatus for compressing gases is disclosed in which an elastomer disposed between two opposing electrostrictive or piezoelectric ceramic blocks, or between a single electrostrictive or piezoelectric ceramic block and a rigid surface, is caused to extrude into or recede from a channel defined adjacent to the elastomer in response to application or removal of an electric field from the blocks. Individual cells of blocks and elastomer are connected to effect a gas compression by peristaltic activation of the individual cells. The apparatus is self-valving in that the first and last cells operate as inlet and outlet valves, respectively. Preferred electrostrictive and piezoelectric ceramic materials are disclosed, and an alternative, non-peristaltic embodiment of the apparatus is described. 9 figs.

High elongation elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brady, V. L.; Reed, R.; Merwin, L.; Nissan, R.

1994-01-01

A new class of liquid curable elastomers with unusual strength and elasticity has been developed at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake. Over the years, studies have been conducted on polymer structure and its influence on the mechanical properties of the ensuing composites. Different tools, including nuclear magnetic resonance, have been used. This paper presents a summary of the factors controlling the mechanical behavior of composites produced with the new liquid curable elastomers, including the effects of plasticizers. It also provides an overview of the nuclear magnetic resonance study on polymer structure, the composition and properties of some live and inert formulations produced at China Lake, and some possible peace-time applications for these new elastomeric materials.

Soft-Matter Resistive Sensor for Measuring Shear and Pressure Stresses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tepayotl-Ramirez, Daniel; Roberts, Peter; Majidi, Carmel

2013-03-01

Building on emerging paradigms in soft-matter electronics, we introduce liquid-phase electronic sensors that simultaneously measures elastic pressure and shear deformation. The sensors are com- posed of a sheet of elastomer that is embedded with fluidic channels containing eutectic Gallium- Indium (EGaIn), a metal alloy that is liquid at room temperature. Applying pressure or shear traction to the surface of the surrounding elastomer causes the elastomer to elastically deform and changes the geometry and electrical properties of the embedded liquid-phase circuit elements. We introduce analytic models that predict the electrical response of the sensor to prescribed surface tractions. These models are validated with both Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and experimental measurements.

Miniature solid-state gas compressor

DOEpatents

Lawless, William N.; Cross, Leslie E.; Steyert, William A.

1985-01-01

A miniature apparatus for compressing gases is disclosed in which an elastomer disposed between two opposing electrostrictive or piezoelectric ceramic blocks, or between a single electrostrictive or piezoelectric ceramic block and a rigid surface, is caused to extrude into or recede from a channel defined adjacent to the elastomer in response to application or removal of an electric field from the blocks. Individual cells of blocks and elastomer are connected to effect a gas compression by peristaltic activation of the individual cells. The apparatus is self-valving in that the first and last cells operate as inlet and outlet valves, respectively. Preferred electrostrictive and piezoelectric ceramic materials are disclosed, and an alternative, non-peristaltic embodiment of the apparatus is described.

40 CFR 721.4100 - Tris(disubstituted alkyl) het-er-o-cy-cle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

...) TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for... substance is present in a plastic, an elastomer, a rubber matrix, or in a solution. (iii) Industrial... substance imported in a plastic, an elastomer, a rubber matrix, or in a solution, such that inhalation is...

40 CFR 721.4100 - Tris(disubstituted alkyl) het-er-o-cy-cle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...) TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for... substance is present in a plastic, an elastomer, a rubber matrix, or in a solution. (iii) Industrial... substance imported in a plastic, an elastomer, a rubber matrix, or in a solution, such that inhalation is...

Decal transfer microfabrication

DOEpatents

Nuzzo, Ralph G.; Childs, William Robert

2004-10-19

A method of making a microstructure includes forming a pattern in a surface of a silicon-containing elastomer, oxidizing the pattern, contacting the pattern with a substrate; and bonding the oxidized pattern and the substrate such that the pattern and the substrate are irreversibly attached. The silicon-containing elastomer may be removably attached to a transfer pad.

High-temperature Y267 EPDM elastomer: field and laboratory experiences, August 1981

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hirasuna, A.R.; Friese, G.J.; Stephens, C.A.

1982-03-01

Experiences which indicate the superiority of Y267 EPDM elastomer for high-temperature brines and other environments uses are summarized. Its good processing qualities, extremely good thermochemical stability, extremely good mechanical properties, its low-cost constituents, and its good performance in hydrocarbons are described in some case histories. (MCW)

Soft-Matter Printed Circuit Board with UV Laser Micropatterning.

PubMed

Lu, Tong; Markvicka, Eric J; Jin, Yichu; Majidi, Carmel

2017-07-05

When encapsulated in elastomer, micropatterned traces of Ga-based liquid metal (LM) can function as elastically deformable circuit wiring that provides mechanically robust electrical connectivity between solid-state elements (e.g., transistors, processors, and sensor nodes). However, LM-microelectronics integration is currently limited by challenges in rapid fabrication of LM circuits and the creation of vias between circuit terminals and the I/O pins of packaged electronics. In this study, we address both with a unique layup for soft-matter electronics in which traces of liquid-phase Ga-In eutectic (EGaIn) are patterned with UV laser micromachining (UVLM). The terminals of the elastomer-sealed LM circuit connect to the surface mounted chips through vertically aligned columns of EGaIn-coated Ag-Fe 2 O 3 microparticles that are embedded within an interfacial elastomer layer. The processing technique is compatible with conventional UVLM printed circuit board (PCB) prototyping and exploits the photophysical ablation of EGaIn on an elastomer substrate. Potential applications to wearable computing and biosensing are demonstrated with functional implementations in which soft-matter PCBs are populated with surface-mounted microelectronics.

Chemiluminescence Study on Thermal Degradation of Aircraft Tire Elastomers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mendenhall, G. D.; Stanford, T. B.; Nathan, R. A.

1976-01-01

Since the autoxidative process accounts in part for the degradation of rubber, including aircraft tires, it was felt that a study of the chemiluminescence from unsaturated elastomers could contribute significantly to an understanding of the degradation mechanism. The study revealed similarities in chemiluminescence behavior between four elastomers which were investigated, and it shows that similar oxidation mechanisms occur. Oxidative chemiluminescence was observed from purified samples of cis-1,4-polybutadiene, cis-1,4-polyisoprene, trans-polypentenamer, and 1,2-polybutadiene in an oxygen atmosphere at 25-150 C. The elastomer samples were placed in a 600 watt oven which is equipped with gas inlets for introducing any desired atmosphere. Chemiluminescence emission from the samples was focused with a two inch quartz lens onto the detector of a 12" photomultiplier which is connected to a photon counter. A strip-chart recorder, connected to the counter, permitted automatic data collection. Diagrams of the apparatus are included. The chemical reactions which occurred from the thermal decomposition of the polymer samples are described, and results (and tabulated data) are discussed.

3D Printing of Highly Stretchable, Shape-Memory, and Self-Healing Elastomer toward Novel 4D Printing.

PubMed

Kuang, Xiao; Chen, Kaijuan; Dunn, Conner K; Wu, Jiangtao; Li, Vincent C F; Qi, H Jerry

2018-02-28

The three-dimensional (3D) printing of flexible and stretchable materials with smart functions such as shape memory (SM) and self-healing (SH) is highly desirable for the development of future 4D printing technology for myriad applications, such as soft actuators, deployable smart medical devices, and flexible electronics. Here, we report a novel ink that can be used for the 3D printing of highly stretchable, SM, and SH elastomer via UV-light-assisted direct-ink-write printing. An ink containing urethane diacrylate and a linear semicrystalline polymer is developed for the 3D printing of a semi-interpenetrating polymer network elastomer that can be stretched by up to 600%. The 3D-printed complex structures show interesting functional properties, such as high strain SM and SM -assisted SH capability. We demonstrate that such a 3D-printed SM elastomer has the potential application for biomedical devices, such as vascular repair devices. This research paves a new way for the further development of novel 4D printing, soft robotics, and biomedical devices.

Investigation on the performance of a viscoelastic dielectric elastomer membrane generator.

PubMed

Zhou, Jianyou; Jiang, Liying; Khayat, Roger E

2015-04-21

Dielectric elastomer generators (DEGs), as a recent transduction technology, harvest electrical energy by scavenging mechanical energy from diverse sources. Their performance is affected by various material properties and failure modes of the dielectric elastomers. This work presents a theoretical analysis on the performance of a dielectric elastomer membrane generator under equi-biaxial loading conditions. By comparing our simulation results with the experimental observations existing in the literature, this work considers the fatigue life of DE-based devices under cyclic loading for the first time. From the simulation results, it is concluded that the efficiency of the DEG can be improved by raising the deforming rate and the prescribed maximum stretch ratio, and applying an appropriate bias voltage. However, the fatigue life expectancy compromises the efficiency improvement of the DEG. With the consideration of the fatigue life, applying an appropriate bias voltage appears to be a more desirable way to improve the DEG performance. The general framework developed in this work is expected to provide an increased understanding on the energy harvesting mechanisms of the DEGs and benefit their optimal design.

Photocrosslinkable biodegradable elastomers based on cinnamate-functionalized polyesters.

PubMed

Zhu, Congcong; Kustra, Stephen R; Bettinger, Christopher J

2013-07-01

Synthetic biodegradable elastomers are an emerging class of materials that play a critical role in supporting innovations in bioabsorbable medical implants. This paper describes the synthesis and characterization of poly(glycerol-co-sebacate)-cinnamate (PGS-CinA), a biodegradable elastomer based on hyperbranched polyesters derivatized with pendant cinnamate groups. PGS-CinA can be prepared via photodimerization in the absence of photoinitiators using monomers that are found in common foods. The resulting network exhibits a Young's modulus of 50.5-152.1kPa and a projected in vitro degradation half-life time between 90 and 140days. PGS-CinA elastomers are intrinsically cell-adherent and support rapid proliferation of fibroblasts. Spreading and proliferation of fibroblasts are loosely governed by the substrate stiffness within the range of Young's moduli in PGS-CinA networks that were prepared. The thermo-mechanical properties, biodegradability and intrinsic support of cell attachment and proliferation suggest that PGS-CinA networks are broadly applicable for use in next generation bioabsorable materials including temporary medical devices and scaffolds for soft tissue engineering. Copyright © 2013 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The development of bioresorbable composite polymeric implants with high mechanical strength

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Upma; Concagh, Danny; Core, Lee; Kuang, Yina; You, Changcheng; Pham, Quynh; Zugates, Greg; Busold, Rany; Webber, Stephanie; Merlo, Jonathan; Langer, Robert; Whitesides, George M.; Palasis, Maria

2018-01-01

Implants for the treatment of tissue defects should mimic the mechanical properties of the native tissue of interest and should be resorbable as well as biocompatible. In this work, we developed a scaffold from variants of poly(glycolic) acid which were braided and coated with an elastomer of poly(glycolide-co-caprolactone) and crosslinked. The coating of the scaffold with the elastomer led to higher mechanical strength in terms of compression, expansion and elasticity compared to braids without the elastomer coating. These composite scaffolds were found to have expansion properties similar to metallic stents, utilizing materials which are typically much weaker than metal. We optimized the mechanical properties of the implant by tuning the elastomer branching structure, crosslink density, and molecular weight. The scaffolds were shown to be highly resorbable following implantation in a porcine femoral artery. Biocompatibility was studied in vivo in an ovine model by implanting the scaffolds into femoral arteries. The scaffolds were able to support an expanded open lumen over 12 months in vivo and also fully resorbed by 18 months in the ovine model.

Rapid and low-cost prototyping of medical devices using 3D printed molds for liquid injection molding.

PubMed

Chung, Philip; Heller, J Alex; Etemadi, Mozziyar; Ottoson, Paige E; Liu, Jonathan A; Rand, Larry; Roy, Shuvo

2014-06-27

Biologically inert elastomers such as silicone are favorable materials for medical device fabrication, but forming and curing these elastomers using traditional liquid injection molding processes can be an expensive process due to tooling and equipment costs. As a result, it has traditionally been impractical to use liquid injection molding for low-cost, rapid prototyping applications. We have devised a method for rapid and low-cost production of liquid elastomer injection molded devices that utilizes fused deposition modeling 3D printers for mold design and a modified desiccator as an injection system. Low costs and rapid turnaround time in this technique lower the barrier to iteratively designing and prototyping complex elastomer devices. Furthermore, CAD models developed in this process can be later adapted for metal mold tooling design, enabling an easy transition to a traditional injection molding process. We have used this technique to manufacture intravaginal probes involving complex geometries, as well as overmolding over metal parts, using tools commonly available within an academic research laboratory. However, this technique can be easily adapted to create liquid injection molded devices for many other applications.

Triboelectric-Nanogenerator-Based Soft Energy-Harvesting Skin Enabled by Toughly Bonded Elastomer/Hydrogel Hybrids.

PubMed

Liu, Ting; Liu, Mengmeng; Dou, Su; Sun, Jiangman; Cong, Zifeng; Jiang, Chunyan; Du, Chunhua; Pu, Xiong; Hu, Weiguo; Wang, Zhong Lin

2018-03-27

A major challenge accompanying the booming next-generation soft electronics is providing correspondingly soft and sustainable power sources for driving such devices. Here, we report stretchable triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) with dual working modes based on the soft hydrogel-elastomer hybrid as energy skins for harvesting biomechanical energies. The tough interfacial bonding between the hydrophilic hydrogel and hydrophobic elastomer, achieved by the interface modification, ensures the stable mechanical and electrical performances of the TENGs. Furthermore, the dehydration of this toughly bonded hydrogel-elastomer hybrid is significantly inhibited (the average dehydration decreases by over 73%). With PDMS as the electrification layer and hydrogel as the electrode, a stretchable, transparent (90% transmittance), and ultrathin (380 μm) single-electrode TENG was fabricated to conformally attach on human skin and deform as the body moves. The two-electrode mode TENG is capable of harvesting energy from arbitrary human motions (press, stretch, bend, and twist) to drive the self-powered electronics. This work provides a feasible technology to design soft power sources, which could potentially solve the energy issues of soft electronics.

Development of procedures for calculating stiffness and damping properties of elastomers. Part 3: The effects of temperature, dissipation level and geometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smalley, A. J.; Tessarzik, J. M.

1975-01-01

Effects of temperature, dissipation level and geometry on the dynamic behavior of elastomer elements were investigated. Force displacement relationships in elastomer elements and the effects of frequency, geometry and temperature upon these relationships are reviewed. Based on this review, methods of reducing stiffness and damping data for shear and compression test elements to material properties (storage and loss moduli) and empirical geometric factors are developed and tested using previously generated experimental data. A prediction method which accounts for large amplitudes of deformation is developed on the assumption that their effect is to increase temperature through the elastomers, thereby modifying the local material properties. Various simple methods of predicting the radial stiffness of ring cartridge elements are developed and compared. Material properties were determined from the shear specimen tests as a function of frequency and temperature. Using these material properties, numerical predictions of stiffness and damping for cartridge and compression specimens were made and compared with corresponding measurements at different temperatures, with encouraging results.

Compatibility Assessment of Fuel System Elastomers with Bio-oil and Diesel Fuel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kass, Michael D.; Janke, Christopher J.; Connatser, Raynella M.

Bio-oil derived via fast pyrolysis is being developed as a renewable fuel option for petroleum distillates. The compatibility of neat bio-oil with six elastomer types was evaluated against the elastomer performance in neat diesel fuel, which served as the baseline. The elastomers included two fluorocarbons, six acrylonitrile butadiene rubbers (NBRs), and one type each of fluorosilicone, silicone, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), polyurethane, and neoprene. Specimens of each material were exposed to the liquid and gaseous phases of the test fuels for 4 weeks at 60 degrees C, and properties in the wetted and dried states were measured. Exposure to bio-oilmore » produced significant volume expansion in the fluorocarbons, NBRs, and fluorosilicone; however, excessive swelling (over 80%) was only observed for the two fluorocarbons and two NBR grades. The polyurethane specimens were completely degraded by the bio-oil. In contrast, both silicone and SBR exhibited lower swelling levels in bio-oil compared to neat diesel fuel. The implication is that, while polyurethane and fluorocarbon may not be acceptable seal materials for bio-oils, silicone may offer a lower cost alternative.« less

Zipping dielectric elastomer actuators: characterization, design and modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maffli, L.; Rosset, S.; Shea, H. R.

2013-10-01

We report on miniature dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) operating in zipping mode with an analytical model that predicts their behavior. Electrostatic zipping is a well-known mechanism in silicon MEMS to obtain large deformations and forces at lower voltages than for parallel plate electrostatic actuation. We extend this concept to DEAs, which allows us to obtain much larger out-of-plane displacements compared to silicon thanks to the softness of the elastomer membrane. We study experimentally the effect of sidewall angles and elastomer prestretch on 2.3 mm diameter actuators with PDMS membranes. With 15° and 22.5° sidewall angles, the devices zip in a bistable manner down 300 μm to the bottom of the chambers. The highly tunable bistable behavior is controllable by both chamber geometry and membrane parameters. Other specific characteristics of zipping DEAs include well-controlled deflected shape, tunable displacement versus voltage characteristics to virtually any shape, including multi-stable modes, sealing of embedded holes or channels for valving action and the reduction of the operating voltage. These properties make zipping DEAs an excellent candidate for applications such as integrated microfluidics actuators or Braille displays.

Interfacial Properties of EXXPRO(TM) and General Purpose Elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Y.; Rafailovich, M.; Sokolov, Jon; Qu, S.; Ge, S.; Ngyuen, D.; Li, Z.; Peiffer, D.; Song, L.; Dias, J. A.; McElrath, K. O.

1998-03-01

EXXPRO(Trademark) elastomers are used for tires and many other applications. This elastomer (denoted as BIMS) is a random copolymer of p-methylstyrene (MS) and polyisobutylene (I) with varying degrees of PMS content and bromination (B) on the p-methyl group. BIMS is impermeable to gases, and has good heat, ozone and flex resistance. Very often general purpose elastomers are blended with BIMS. The interfacial width between polybutadiene and BIMS is a sensitive function of the Br level and PMS content. By neutron reflectivity (NR), we studied the dynamics of interface formation as a function of time and temperature for BIMS with varying degrees of PMS and Br. We found that in addition to the bulk parameters, the total film thickness and the proximity of an interactive surface can affect the interfacial interaction rates. The interfacial properties can also be modified by inclusion of particles, such as carbon black (a filler component in tire rubbers). Results will be presented on the relation between the interfacial width as measured by NR and compatibilization studies via AFM and LFM.

Phenomena of nonlinear oscillation and special resonance of a dielectric elastomer minimum energy structure rotary joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Jianwen; Niu, Junyang; McCoul, David; Ren, Zhi; Pei, Qibing

2015-03-01

The dielectric elastomer minimum energy structure can realize large angular deformations by a small voltage-induced strain of the dielectric elastomer, so it is a suitable candidate to make a rotary joint for a soft robot. Driven with an alternating electric field, the joint deformation vibrational frequency follows the input voltage frequency. However, the authors find that if the rotational inertia increases such that the inertial torque makes the frame deform over a negative angle, then the joint motion will become complicated and the vibrational mode will alter with the change of voltage frequency. The vibration with the largest amplitude does not occur while the voltage frequency is equal to natural response frequency of the joint. Rather, the vibrational amplitude will be quite large over a range of other frequencies at which the vibrational frequency is half of the voltage frequency. This phenomenon was analyzed by a comparison of the timing sequences between voltage and joint vibration. This vibrational mode with the largest amplitude can be applied to the generation lift in a flapping wing actuated by dielectric elastomers.

Formation of a Crack-Free, Hybrid Skin Layer with Tunable Surface Topography and Improved Gas Permeation Selectivity on Elastomers Using Gel–Liquid Infiltration Polymerization

DOE PAGES

Wang, Mengyuan; Gorham, Justin M.; Killgore, Jason P.; ...

2017-07-31

Surface modifications of elastomers and gels are crucial for emerging applications such as soft robotics and flexible electronics, in large part because they provide a platform to control wettability, adhesion, and permeability. Current surface modification methods via ultraviolet-ozone (UVO) and/or O2 plasma, atomic layer deposition (ALD), plasmas deposition, and chemical treatment impart a dense polymer or inorganic layer on the surface that is brittle and easy to fracture at low strain levels. This paper presents a new method, based on gel–liquid infiltration polymerization, to form hybrid skin layers atop elastomers. The method is unique in that it allows for controlmore » of the skin layer topography, with tunable feature sizes and aspect ratios as high as 1.8 without fracture. Unlike previous techniques, the skin layer formed here dramatically improves the barrier properties of the elastomer, while preserving skin layer flexibility. Furthermore, the method is versatile and likely applicable to most interfacial polymerization systems and network polymers on flat and patterned surfaces.« less

Formation of a Crack-Free, Hybrid Skin Layer with Tunable Surface Topography and Improved Gas Permeation Selectivity on Elastomers Using Gel–Liquid Infiltration Polymerization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Mengyuan; Gorham, Justin M.; Killgore, Jason P.

Surface modifications of elastomers and gels are crucial for emerging applications such as soft robotics and flexible electronics, in large part because they provide a platform to control wettability, adhesion, and permeability. Current surface modification methods via ultraviolet-ozone (UVO) and/or O2 plasma, atomic layer deposition (ALD), plasmas deposition, and chemical treatment impart a dense polymer or inorganic layer on the surface that is brittle and easy to fracture at low strain levels. This paper presents a new method, based on gel–liquid infiltration polymerization, to form hybrid skin layers atop elastomers. The method is unique in that it allows for controlmore » of the skin layer topography, with tunable feature sizes and aspect ratios as high as 1.8 without fracture. Unlike previous techniques, the skin layer formed here dramatically improves the barrier properties of the elastomer, while preserving skin layer flexibility. Furthermore, the method is versatile and likely applicable to most interfacial polymerization systems and network polymers on flat and patterned surfaces.« less

In vitro cytotoxicity of maxillofacial silicone elastomers: effect of accelerated aging.

PubMed

Bal, Bilge Turhan; Yilmaz, Handan; Aydin, Cemal; Karakoca, Seçil; Yilmaz, Sükran

2009-04-01

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of three maxillofacial silicone elastomers at 24, 48, and 72 h on L-929 cells and to determine the effect of accelerated aging on the cytotoxicity of these silicone elastomers. Disc-shaped test samples of maxillofacial silicone elastomers (Cosmesil, Episil, Multisil) were fabricated according to manufacturers' instructions under aseptic conditions. Samples were then divided into three groups: (1) not aged; (2) aged for 150 h with an accelerated weathering tester; and (3) aged for 300 h. Then the samples were placed in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium/Ham's F12 (DMEM/F12) for 24, 48, and 72 h. After the incubation periods, cytotoxicity of the extracts to cultured fibroblasts (L-929) was measured by MTT assay. The degree of cytotoxicity of each sample was determined according to the reference value represented by the cells with a control (culture without sample). Statistical significance was determined by repeated measurement ANOVA (p < 0.01) followed by Duncan's test (p < 0.05). All test materials in each group demonstrated high survival rates in MTT assay (Episil; 93.84%, Multisil; 88.30%, Cosmesil; 87.50%, respectively); however, in all groups, Episil material demonstrated significantly higher cell survival rate after each of the experimental incubation periods (p < 0.05). Accelerated aging for 150 and 300 h had no significant effect on the biocompatibility of maxillofacial silicone elastomers tested (p > 0.05).

Numerical verification of three point bending experiment of magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) in magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miedzinska, Danuta; Boczkowska, Anna; Zubko, Konrad

2010-07-01

In the article a method of numerical verification of experimental results for magnetorheological elastomer samples (MRE) is presented. The samples were shaped into cylinders with diameter of 8 mm and height of 20 mm with various carbonyl iron volume shares (1,5%, 11,5% and 33%). The diameter of soft ferromagnetic substance particles ranged from 6 to 9 μm. During the experiment, initially bended samples were exposed to the magnetic field with intensity levels at 0,1T, 0,3T, 0,5T, 0,7 and 1T. The reaction of the sample to the field action was measured as a displacement of a specimen. Numerical calculation was carried out with the MSC Patran/Marc computer code. For the purpose of numerical analysis the orthotropic material model with the material properties of magnetorheological elastomer along the iron chains, and of the pure elastomer along other directions, was applied. The material properties were obtained from the experimental tests. During the numerical analysis, the initial mechanical load resulting from cylinder deflection was set. Then, the equivalent external force, that was set on the basis of analytical calculations of intermolecular reaction within iron chains in the specific magnetic field, was put on the bended sample. Correspondence of such numerical model with results of the experiment was verified. Similar results of the experiments and both theoretical and FEM analysis indicates that macroscopic modeling of magnetorheological elastomer mechanical properties as orthotropic material delivers accurate enough description of the material's behavior.

Impact of Different Elastomer Formulations on Moisture Permeation through Stoppers Used for Lyophilized Products Stored under Humid Conditions.

PubMed

Sasaki, Hitoshi; Kikuchi, Jun; Maeda, Terutoshi; Kuboniwa, Hitoshi

2010-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of moisture permeability of different elastomer formulation stoppers, which had different moisture absorption abilities, on the increase of moisture content inside lyophilized vials during long-term storage under humid conditions. Two different elastomer formulation stoppers (high-moisture and low-moisture uptake stoppers) were compared. The increased amount of moisture content inside lyophilized vials fitted with high-moisture stoppers was higher than those fitted with low-moisture stoppers during the early stage of storage. However, this trend was reversed during the later stage of storage. Our data show that the moisture increase inside the lyophilized vials at the early stage was caused by moisture transfer from the stoppers, whereas the later moisture increase was caused by external moisture permeation through the stoppers. Results indicate that the difference in the moisture uptake profile inside the lyophilized vials at each period of storage was caused by the moisture absorption ability and moisture permeation ability of the two elastomer formulation stoppers. In terms of long-term storage stability under humid conditions, our data indicate that external moisture permeating through the stopper into the lyophilized vial during the late stage was the more important factor. In addition, the increase in moisture content at the early stage was controlled by stopper drying time. Furthermore, stopper drying time did not have an effect on moisture permeation at the late stage. Moisture permeation during the storage period appears to be dependent on the different elastomer formulations of the stoppers. The moisture permeation of different elastomer stoppers was an important factor in terms of the increased moisture content inside the lyophilized vials during the late stage of long-term storage under humid conditions. For lyophilized products stored at room temperature, the moisture permeation ability of the stopper is one of the most important factors for long-term storage stability.

Kinematics and control of redundant robotic arm based on dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Branz, Francesco; Antonello, Andrea; Carron, Andrea; Carli, Ruggero; Francesconi, Alessandro

2015-04-01

Soft robotics is a promising field and its application to space mechanisms could represent a breakthrough in space technologies by enabling new operative scenarios (e.g. soft manipulators, capture systems). Dielectric Elastomers Actuators have been under deep study for a number of years and have shown several advantages that could be of key importance for space applications. Among such advantages the most notable are high conversion efficiency, distributed actuation, self-sensing capability, multi-degree-of-freedom design, light weight and low cost. The big potentialities of double cone actuators have been proven in terms of good performances (i.e. stroke and force/torque), ease of manufacturing and durability. In this work the kinematic, dynamic and control design of a two-joint redundant robotic arm is presented. Two double cone actuators are assembled in series to form a two-link design. Each joint has two degrees of freedom (one rotational and one translational) for a total of four. The arm is designed to move in a 2-D environment (i.e. the horizontal plane) with 4 DoF, consequently having two degrees of redundancy. The redundancy is exploited in order to minimize the joint loads. The kinematic design with redundant Jacobian inversion is presented. The selected control algorithm is described along with the results of a number of dynamic simulations that have been executed for performance verification. Finally, an experimental setup is presented based on a flexible structure that counteracts gravity during testing in order to better emulate future zero-gravity applications.

Aperiodic crystals and beyond.

PubMed

Grimm, Uwe

2015-06-01

Crystals are paradigms of ordered structures. While order was once seen as synonymous with lattice periodic arrangements, the discoveries of incommensurate crystals and quasicrystals led to a more general perception of crystalline order, encompassing both periodic and aperiodic crystals. The current definition of crystals rests on their essentially point-like diffraction. Considering a number of recently investigated toy systems, with particular emphasis on non-crystalline ordered structures, the limits of the current definition are explored.

Flammability and Thermophysical Characterization of Thermoplastic Elastomer Nanocomposites

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-08-01

montmorillonite organoclays, POSS®, carbon nanofibers to develop a flame resistant material Thermophysical and flammability properties of these...elastomer manufactured by Dow Chemical. Its typical applications include seals, gaskets, belting, and others. Montmorillonite Nanoclays – Cloisite...30B is a surface treated montmorillonite [Tallow bishydroxyethyl methyl, T(EOH)2M] manufactured by Southern Clay Products Carbon Nanofibers (CNFs

Nonlinear Dynamics of Electroelastic Dielectric Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

2018-01-30

research will significantly advance the basic science and fundamental understanding of how rate- dependent material response couples to large, nonlinear...experimental studies of constrained dielectric elastomer films, a transition in the surface instability mechanism depending on the elastocapillary number...fundamental understanding of how rate- dependent material response couples to large, nonlinear material deformation under applied electrostatic loading to

Development of a Cavitation Erosion Resistant Advanced Material System

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-11-01

Sheet EPD M results .............................................................................. 47 Figure 5.11 - EPDM rubber samples, sheet (left...Testing The long test times of EPDM rubber and other durable elastomer samples created a need for overnight testing capability. In the original test setup...seals, adhesives and molded flexible parts. Common examples of elastomers include natural and synthetic rubber , silicone, neoprene, EPDM , polyurethane

Transparent actuator made with few layer graphene electrode and dielectric elastomer, for variable focus lens

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hwang, Taeseon; Kwon, Hyeok-Yong; Oh, Joon-Suk; Hong, Jung-Pyo; Hong, Seung-Chul; Lee, Youngkwan; Ryeol Choi, Hyouk; Jin Kim, Kwang; Hossain Bhuiya, Mainul; Nam, Jae-Do

2013-07-01

A transparent dielectric elastomer actuator driven by few-layer-graphene (FLG) electrode was experimentally investigated. The electrodes were made of graphene, which was dispersed in N-methyl-pyrrolidone. The transparent actuator was fabricated from developed FLG electrodes. The FLG electrode with its sheet resistance of 0.45 kΩ/sq (80 nm thick) was implemented to mask silicone elastomer. The developed FLG-driven actuator exhibited an optical transparency of over 57% at a wavenumber of 600 nm and produced bending displacement performance ranging from 29 to 946 μm as functions of frequency and voltage. The focus variation was clearly demonstrated under actuation to study its application-feasibility in variable focus lens and various opto-electro-mechanical devices.

Post-Cure Studies on Solid Silicone Elastomer: DC745U

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ortiz-Acosta, Denisse; Janicke, Michael T.; Yoder, Jacob

DC745U is a silicone elastomer originally manufactured by Dow Corning under the name of Silastic® DC745U at their manufacturing facility in Kendaville, Indiana. Currently DC745U is available through Xiameter® or Dow Corning’s distributor R. D. Abbott Company. This silicone elastomer is used in numerous parts of weapon systems, including outer pressure pads, aft cap support in W80 and pressure pad in the B61. DC745U is a proprietary formulation and limited information about its composition and properties is provided to the customer. Thus, Los Alamos National Laboratory and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have performed a variety of characterization experiments on thismore » material.« less

On a Minimum Problem in Smectic Elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buonsanti, Michele; Giovine, Pasquale

2008-07-01

Smectic elastomers are layered materials exhibiting a solid-like elastic response along the layer normal and a rubbery one in the plane. Balance equations for smectic elastomers are derived from the general theory of continua with constrained microstructure. In this work we investigate a very simple minimum problem based on multi-well potentials where the microstructure is taken into account. The set of polymeric strains minimizing the elastic energy contains a one-parameter family of simple strain associated with a micro-variation of the degree of freedom. We develop the energy functional through two terms, the first one nematic and the second one considering the tilting phenomenon; after, by developing in the rubber elasticity framework, we minimize over the tilt rotation angle and extract the engineering stress.

Investigation into reversion of polyurethane encapsulants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lynch, C. R.

1973-01-01

The effect of high humidity (95% RH) at 60 C, 70 C, 85 C and 100 C on the solid-to-liquid reversion of polyurethane elastomers (used for potting electrical connectors and conformal coating printed circuit boards) was investigated. Hardness measurements were conducted on eleven elastomers to track reversion for a 101-day period. The primary purpose of the tests was to provide data to predict service life for the polyurethane elastomers. This was not accomplished as the hardness did not deteriorate rapidly enough at the lower test temperatures. The tests did determine that the potting and coating materials most widely used on the S-1C Program are susceptible to reversion but appear adequate for service in the S-1C environment.

Small, fast, and tough: Shrinking down integrated elastomer transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosset, Samuel; Shea, Herbert R.

2016-09-01

We review recent progress in miniaturized dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs), sensors, and energy harvesters. We focus primarily on configurations where the large strain, high compliance, stretchability, and high level of integration offered by dielectric elastomer transducers provide significant advantages over other mm or μm-scale transduction technologies. We first present the most active application areas, including: tunable optics, soft robotics, haptics, micro fluidics, biomedical devices, and stretchable sensors. We then discuss the fabrication challenges related to miniaturization, such as thin membrane fabrication, precise patterning of compliant electrodes, and reliable batch fabrication of multilayer devices. We finally address the impact of miniaturization on strain, force, and driving voltage, as well as the important effect of boundary conditions on the performance of mm-scale DEAs.

Röntgen’s electrode-free elastomer actuators without electromechanical pull-in instability

PubMed Central

Keplinger, Christoph; Kaltenbrunner, Martin; Arnold, Nikita; Bauer, Siegfried

2010-01-01

Electrical actuators made from films of dielectric elastomers coated on both sides with stretchable electrodes may potentially be applied in microrobotics, tactile and haptic interfaces, as well as in adaptive optical elements. Such actuators with compliant electrodes are sensitive to the pull-in electromechanical instability, limiting operational voltages and attainable deformations. Electrode-free actuators driven by sprayed-on electrical charges were first studied by Röntgen in 1880. They withstand much higher voltages and deformations and allow for electrically clamped (charge-controlled) thermodynamic states preventing electromechanical instabilities. The absence of electrodes allows for direct optical monitoring of the actuated elastomer, as well as for designing new 3D actuator configurations and adaptive optical elements. PMID:20173097

Electroactive polymers for sensing

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Electromechanical coupling in electroactive polymers (EAPs) has been widely applied for actuation and is also being increasingly investigated for sensing chemical and mechanical stimuli. EAPs are a unique class of materials, with low-moduli high-strain capabilities and the ability to conform to surfaces of different shapes. These features make them attractive for applications such as wearable sensors and interfacing with soft tissues. Here, we review the major types of EAPs and their sensing mechanisms. These are divided into two classes depending on the main type of charge carrier: ionic EAPs (such as conducting polymers and ionic polymer–metal composites) and electronic EAPs (such as dielectric elastomers, liquid-crystal polymers and piezoelectric polymers). This review is intended to serve as an introduction to the mechanisms of these materials and as a first step in material selection for both researchers and designers of flexible/bendable devices, biocompatible sensors or even robotic tactile sensing units. PMID:27499846

Performance through Deformation and Instability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bertoldi, Katia

2015-03-01

Materials capable of undergoing large deformations like elastomers and gels are ubiquitous in daily life and nature. An exciting field of engineering is emerging that uses these compliant materials to design active devices, such as actuators, adaptive optical systems and self-regulating fluidics. Compliant structures may significantly change their architecture in response to diverse stimuli. When excessive deformation is applied, they may eventually become unstable. Traditionally, mechanical instabilities have been viewed as an inconvenience, with research focusing on how to avoid them. Here, I will demonstrate that these instabilities can be exploited to design materials with novel, switchable functionalities. The abrupt changes introduced into the architecture of soft materials by instabilities will be used to change their shape in a sudden, but controlled manner. Possible and exciting applications include materials with unusual properties such negative Poisson's ratio, phononic crystals with tunable low-frequency acoustic band gaps and reversible encapsulation systems.

Structured light enables biomimetic swimming and versatile locomotion of photoresponsive soft microrobots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palagi, Stefano; Mark, Andrew G.; Reigh, Shang Yik; Melde, Kai; Qiu, Tian; Zeng, Hao; Parmeggiani, Camilla; Martella, Daniele; Sanchez-Castillo, Alberto; Kapernaum, Nadia; Giesselmann, Frank; Wiersma, Diederik S.; Lauga, Eric; Fischer, Peer

2016-06-01

Microorganisms move in challenging environments by periodic changes in body shape. In contrast, current artificial microrobots cannot actively deform, exhibiting at best passive bending under external fields. Here, by taking advantage of the wireless, scalable and spatiotemporally selective capabilities that light allows, we show that soft microrobots consisting of photoactive liquid-crystal elastomers can be driven by structured monochromatic light to perform sophisticated biomimetic motions. We realize continuum yet selectively addressable artificial microswimmers that generate travelling-wave motions to self-propel without external forces or torques, as well as microrobots capable of versatile locomotion behaviours on demand. Both theoretical predictions and experimental results confirm that multiple gaits, mimicking either symplectic or antiplectic metachrony of ciliate protozoa, can be achieved with single microswimmers. The principle of using structured light can be extended to other applications that require microscale actuation with sophisticated spatiotemporal coordination for advanced microrobotic technologies.

On the modeling and characterization of an interlocked flexible electronic skin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khalili, Nazanin; Shen, Xuechen; Naguib, Hani E.

2017-04-01

Development of an electronic skin with ultra-high pressure sensitivity is now of critical importance due its broad range of applications including prosthetic skins and biomimetic robotics. Microstructured conductive composite elastomers can acquire mechanical and electrical properties analogous to those of natural skin. One of the most prominent features of human skin is its tactile sensing property which can be mimicked in an electronic skin. Herein, an electrically conductive composite comprising polydimethylsiloxane and conductive fillers is used as a flexible and stretchable piezoresistive sensor. The electrical conductivity is induced within the elastomer matrix via carbon nanotubes whereas the piezoresistivity is obtained by means of microstructuring the surface of the substrate. An interlocked array of pyramids in micro-scale allows the change in the contact resistance between two thin layers of the composite upon application of an external load. Deformation of the interlocked arrays endows the sensor with an ultra-high sensitivity to the external pressures within the range of human skin perception. Moreover, using finite element analysis, the change in the contact are between the two layers was captured for different geometries. The structure of the sensor can be optimized through an optimization model in order to acquire maximum sensitivity.

Importance of matrix inelastic deformations in the initial response of magnetic elastomers.

PubMed

Sánchez, Pedro A; Gundermann, Thomas; Dobroserdova, Alla; Kantorovich, Sofia S; Odenbach, Stefan

2018-03-14

Being able to predict and understand the behaviour of soft magnetic materials paves the way to their technological applications. In this study we analyse the magnetic response of soft magnetic elastomers (SMEs) with magnetically hard particles. We present experimental evidence of a difference between the first and next magnetisation loops exhibited by these SMEs, which depends non-monotonically on the interplay between the rigidity of the polymer matrix, its mechanical coupling with the particles, and the magnetic interactions in the system. In order to explain the microstructural mechanism behind this behaviour, we used a minimal computer simulation model whose results evidence the importance of irreversible matrix deformations due to both translations and rotations of the particles. To confirm the simulation findings, computed tomography (CT) was used. We conclude that the initial exposure to the field triggers the inelastic matrix relaxation in the SMEs, as particles attempt to reorient. However, once the necessary degree of freedom is achieved, both the rotations and the magnetisation behaviour become stationary. We expect this scenario not only to be limited to the materials studied here, but also to apply to a broader class of hybrid SMEs.

Micropatterning hydroxy-PAAm hydrogels and Sylgard 184 silicone elastomers with tunable elastic moduli.

PubMed

Versaevel, Marie; Grevesse, Thomas; Riaz, Maryam; Lantoine, Joséphine; Gabriele, Sylvain

2014-01-01

This protocol describes a simple method to deposit protein micropatterns over a wide range of culture substrate stiffness (three orders of magnitude) by using two complementary polymeric substrates. In the first part, we introduce a novel polyacrylamide hydrogel, called hydroxy-polyacrylamide (PAAm), that permits to surmount the intrinsically nonadhesive properties of polyacrylamide with minimal requirements in cost or expertize. We present a protocol for tuning easily the rigidity of "soft" hydroxy-PAAm hydrogels between ~0.5 and 50 kPa and a micropatterning method to locally deposit protein micropatterns on these hydrogels. In a second part, we describe a protocol for tuning the rigidity of "stiff" silicone elastomers between ~100 and 1000 kPa and printing efficiently proteins from the extracellular matrix. Finally, we investigate the effect of the matrix rigidity on the nucleus of primary endothelial cells by tuning the rigidity of both polymeric substrates. We envision that the complementarity of these two polymeric substrates, combined with an efficient microprinting technique, can be further developed in the future as a powerful mechanobiology platform to investigate in vitro the effect of mechanotransduction cues on cellular functions, gene expression, and stem cell differentiation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reduced Order Models for Dynamic Behavior of Elastomer Damping Devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morin, B.; Legay, A.; Deü, J.-F.

2016-09-01

In the context of passive damping, various mechanical systems from the space industry use elastomer components (shock absorbers, silent blocks, flexible joints...). The material of these devices has frequency, temperature and amplitude dependent characteristics. The associated numerical models, using viscoelastic and hyperelastic constitutive behaviour, may become computationally too expensive during a design process. The aim of this work is to propose efficient reduced viscoelastic models of rubber devices. The first step is to choose an accurate material model that represent the viscoelasticity. The second step is to reduce the rubber device finite element model to a super-element that keeps the frequency dependence. This reduced model is first built by taking into account the fact that the device's interfaces are much more rigid than the rubber core. To make use of this difference, kinematical constraints enforce the rigid body motion of these interfaces reducing the rubber device model to twelve dofs only on the interfaces (three rotations and three translations per face). Then, the superelement is built by using a component mode synthesis method. As an application, the dynamic behavior of a structure supported by four hourglass shaped rubber devices under harmonic loads is analysed to show the efficiency of the proposed approach.

Preparation and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of gestodene (GEST) intravaginal ring.

PubMed

Li, Chunxiao; Ning, Meiying; Yao, Xiaodong; Wang, Yankun; Liu, Ying

2016-09-01

Preparation and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of gestodene (GEST) intravaginal ring (IVR) formulations which can release a constant dose of GEST during 3 weeks were investigated. In present study a reservoir gestodene intravaginal ring, including a gestodene silicone elastomer core and the non-active silicone layer, was reported, which was manufactured by reaction injection moulding at 80°C for 20 min. The raw materials compatibility experiments showed that the silicone elastomer core carrier wouldn't interact with drugs. In vitro release samples were determined by HPLC and the experiment was performed under sink conditions. The equation of cumulative release verse time was Y=64.76χ+5.44 (r=0.9998), performing zero-order release at about the target dose of 60 µg/day over 21 days. Drug release increased with temperature elevating from 45 to 55°C, which could be attributed to optimizing the prescription. In addition, the pharmacokinetic and safety studies of gestodene intravaginal ring were evaluated in female New Zealand White rabbits. The GEST in plasma was analyzed by LC-MS/MS and the results proved that the correlation between in vitro and in vivo was relatively well.

A mathematical model for an integrated self priming dielectric elastomer generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Illenberger, Patrin K.; Wilson, Katherine E.; Henke, E.-F. Markus; Madawala, Udaya K.; Anderson, Iain A.

2017-04-01

Dielectric Elastomer Generators (DEG) can capture energy from natural movement sources such as wind, the tides and human locomotion. The harvested energy can be used for low power devices such as wireless sensor nodes and wearable electronics. A challenge for low power DEG is overcoming the losses associated with charge management. A circuit which can do this exists: the Self Priming Circuit (SPC) which consists of diodes and capacitors. The SPC is connected in parallel to the DEG where it transfers charge onto/o_ the DEG based on changes in the DEG capacitance. Modelling and experimental validation of the SPC have been performed in the past, allowing design and implementation of effective SPCs which match a particular DEG. While the SPC is effective, it is still an external circuit which adds additional mass and cost to the DEG. By splitting the DEG into separate capacitors and using them to build an SPC, the Integrated SPC (I-SPC) can be realized. This reduces the components required to build a SPC/DEG and improves the performance. This paper presents a mathematical model with experimental data of a first order I-SPC. Additionally, comparisons between the SPC and I-SPC are drawn.

Importance of matrix inelastic deformations in the initial response of magnetic elastomers

PubMed Central

Gundermann, Thomas; Dobroserdova, Alla; Kantorovich, Sofia S.; Odenbach, Stefan

2018-01-01

Being able to predict and understand the behaviour of soft magnetic materials paves the way to their technological applications. In this study we analyse the magnetic response of soft magnetic elastomers (SMEs) with magnetically hard particles. We present experimental evidence of a difference between the first and next magnetisation loops exhibited by these SMEs, which depends non-monotonically on the interplay between the rigidity of the polymer matrix, its mechanical coupling with the particles, and the magnetic interactions in the system. In order to explain the microstructural mechanism behind this behaviour, we used a minimal computer simulation model whose results evidence the importance of irreversible matrix deformations due to both translations and rotations of the particles. To confirm the simulation findings, computed tomography (CT) was used. We conclude that the initial exposure to the field triggers the inelastic matrix relaxation in the SMEs, as particles attempt to reorient. However, once the necessary degree of freedom is achieved, both the rotations and the magnetisation behaviour become stationary. We expect this scenario not only to be limited to the materials studied here, but also to apply to a broader class of hybrid SMEs. PMID:29493690

In vitro evaluation of color change in maxillofacial elastomer through the use of an ultraviolet light absorber and a hindered amine light stabilizer.

PubMed

Tran, Ngoc H; Scarbecz, Mark; Gary, John J

2004-05-01

External prostheses composed of silicone elastomers exhibit an unwanted color change over time. This study evaluated color stability when an ultraviolet light absorber and hindered amine light stabilizer were mixed in the maxillofacial elastomer containing either organic or inorganic pigments. The materials used were an RTV silicone elastomer, 1 natural inorganic dry-earth pigment (burnt sienna) and 2 synthesized organic pigments (hansa yellow and alizarin red), ultraviolet light absorber (UVA) and hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS). Specimens (n=160) were fabricated in a custom mold and randomly assigned and exposed to weathering sites in Miami and Phoenix for approximately 3 months. Eight test groups (2 of each 4 material types with or without additives) of 10 specimens each were assigned to each site. L*, a*, b* readings were obtained before and after weathering from a spectrocolorimeter. Nonpigmented elastomers served as the control. Three-factor ANOVA was conducted to examine interaction effects between weathering sites, specimen type, and the presence of additive (alpha=.05). Overall color change (Delta E) and change in color coordinates (Delta L*, Delta a*, Delta b*) of specimen groups with and without additive were analyzed with independent sample t tests. In specimen groups with the additives (UVA and HALS), color change decreased significantly (P<.05) in burnt sienna and hansa yellow in Phoenix and in the control and hansa yellow in Miami. Additives did not affect color change in the alizarin red group. UVA and HALS were shown to be effective in retarding color change in some circumstances.

Multifunctional Graphene-Silicone Elastomer Nanocomposite, Method of Making the Same, and Uses Thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prud'Homme, Robert K. (Inventor); Pan, Shuyang (Inventor); Aksay, Ilhan A. (Inventor)

2018-01-01

A nanocomposite composition having a silicone elastomer matrix having therein a filler loading of greater than 0.05 wt %, based on total nanocomposite weight, wherein the filler is functional graphene sheets (FGS) having a surface area of from 300 sq m/g to 2630 sq m2/g; and a method for producing the nanocomposite and uses thereof.

Polymer compositions and methods

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Allen, Scott D.; Willkomm, Wayne R.

The present invention encompasses polyurethane compositions comprising aliphatic polycarbonate chains. In one aspect, the present invention encompasses polyurethane foams, thermoplastics and elastomers derived from aliphatic polycarbonate polyols and polyisocyanates wherein the polyol chains contain a primary repeating unit having a structure: ##STR00001## In another aspect, the invention provides articles comprising the inventive foam and elastomer compositions as well as methods of making such compositions.

Elastomer modified polypropylene–polyethylene blends as matrices for wood flour–plastic composites

Treesearch

Craig Clemons

2010-01-01

Blends of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) could potentially be used as matrices for wood–plastic composites (WPCs). The mechanical performance and morphology of both the unfilled blends and wood-filled composites with various elastomers and coupling agents were investigated. Blending of the plastics resulted in either small domains of the minor phase in a...

Polymer compositions and methods

DOEpatents

Allen, Scott D.; Willkomm, Wayne R.

2016-09-27

The present invention encompasses polyurethane compositions comprising aliphatic polycarbonate chains. In one aspect, the present invention encompasses polyurethane foams, thermoplastics and elastomers derived from aliphatic polycarbonate polyols and polyisocyanates wherein the polyol chains contain a primary repeating unit having a structure: ##STR00001## In another aspect, the invention provides articles comprising the inventive foam and elastomer compositions as well as methods of making such compositions.

Tribology and Friction of Soft Materials: Mississippi State Case Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-03-18

elastomers , foams, and fabrics. B. Develop internal state variable (ISV) material model. Model will be calibrated using database and verified...Rubbers Natural rubber Santoprene (Vulcanized Elastomer ) Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) Foams Polypropylene Foam Polyurethane Foam Fabrics Kevlar...Axially symmetric model PC Disk PC Numerical Implementation in FEM Codes Experiment SEM Optical methods ISV Model Void Nucleation FEM Analysis

A survey on dielectric elastomer actuators for soft robots.

PubMed

Gu, Guo-Ying; Zhu, Jian; Zhu, Li-Min; Zhu, Xiangyang

2017-01-23

Conventional industrial robots with the rigid actuation technology have made great progress for humans in the fields of automation assembly and manufacturing. With an increasing number of robots needing to interact with humans and unstructured environments, there is a need for soft robots capable of sustaining large deformation while inducing little pressure or damage when maneuvering through confined spaces. The emergence of soft robotics offers the prospect of applying soft actuators as artificial muscles in robots, replacing traditional rigid actuators. Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are recognized as one of the most promising soft actuation technologies due to the facts that: i) dielectric elastomers are kind of soft, motion-generating materials that resemble natural muscle of humans in terms of force, strain (displacement per unit length or area) and actuation pressure/density; ii) dielectric elastomers can produce large voltage-induced deformation. In this survey, we first introduce the so-called DEAs emphasizing the key points of working principle, key components and electromechanical modeling approaches. Then, different DEA-driven soft robots, including wearable/humanoid robots, walking/serpentine robots, flying robots and swimming robots, are reviewed. Lastly, we summarize the challenges and opportunities for the further studies in terms of mechanism design, dynamics modeling and autonomous control.

Toward a predictive model for elastomer seals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molinari, Nicola; Khawaja, Musab; Sutton, Adrian; Mostofi, Arash

Nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) and hydrogenated-NBR (HNBR) are widely used elastomers, especially as seals in oil and gas applications. During exposure to well-hole conditions, ingress of gases causes degradation of performance, including mechanical failure. We use computer simulations to investigate this problem at two different length and time-scales. First, we study the solubility of gases in the elastomer using a chemically-inspired description of HNBR based on the OPLS all-atom force-field. Starting with a model of NBR, C=C double bonds are saturated with either hydrogen or intramolecular cross-links, mimicking the hydrogenation of NBR to form HNBR. We validate against trends for the mass density and glass transition temperature for HNBR as a function of cross-link density, and for NBR as a function of the fraction of acrylonitrile in the copolymer. Second, we study mechanical behaviour using a coarse-grained model that overcomes some of the length and time-scale limitations of an all-atom approach. Nanoparticle fillers added to the elastomer matrix to enhance mechanical response are also included. Our initial focus is on understanding the mechanical properties at the elevated temperatures and pressures experienced in well-hole conditions.

Melt compounding with graphene to develop functional, high-performance elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Araby, Sherif; Zaman, Izzuddin; Meng, Qingshi; Kawashima, Nobuyuki; Michelmore, Andrew; Kuan, Hsu-Chiang; Majewski, Peter; Ma, Jun; Zhang, Liqun

2013-04-01

Rather than using graphene oxide, which is limited by a high defect concentration and cost due to oxidation and reduction, we adopted cost-effective, 3.56 nm thick graphene platelets (GnPs) of high structural integrity to melt compound with an elastomer—ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber (EPDM)—using an industrial facility. An elastomer is an amorphous, chemically crosslinked polymer generally having rather low modulus and fracture strength but high fracture strain in comparison with other materials; and upon removal of loading, it is able to return to its original geometry, immediately and completely. It was found that most GnPs dispersed uniformly in the elastomer matrix, although some did form clusters. A percolation threshold of electrical conductivity at 18 vol% GnPs was observed and the elastomer thermal conductivity increased by 417% at 45 vol% GnPs. The modulus and tensile strength increased by 710% and 404% at 26.7 vol% GnPs, respectively. The modulus improvement agrees well with the Guth and Halpin-Tsai models. The reinforcing effect of GnPs was compared with silicate layers and carbon nanotube. Our simple fabrication would prolong the service life of elastomeric products used in dynamic loading, thus reducing thermosetting waste in the environment.

Interdigitated electrodes (IDE) using elastomer functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) nanocomposites for the detection of oil spills

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Tae-Yong; Lee, Hyunseung; Park, Boyeong; Kim, Yangsoo

2018-03-01

IDE using elastomer functionalized MWNT nanocomposites was fabricated and applied for the oil sensor. Two types of nanocomposites (i.e., MWNT-grafting-polyisoprene and Si-MWNT/natural rubber) having elastomer content of ~70 wt% were used as a sensing material of oil sensor and the relative electrical resistance response of the sensor to three different kinds of oils (i.e., gasoline, engine oil and pump oil) was investigated. Among three kinds of oils, the response of MWNT-grafting-polyisoprene nanocomposites IDE sensor to gasoline was the most significant. It showed the maximum relative electrical resistance of 18 within 20 min of dropping of 200 μL gasoline at room temperature for the MWNT-grafting-polyisoprene nanocomposites, which is far superior in sensitivity to the experimental results reported by Ponnamma et al in 2016 [1]. On the other hand, the response of Si-MWNT/natural rubber nanocomposites IDE sensor to gasoline was not appreciable. The elastomer functionalized MWNT nanocomposites prepared by “grafting-from” method, which is MWNT-grafting-polyisoprene in this study, is an excellent candidate material for the detection of oil spills.

A Highly Stretchable and Robust Non-fluorinated Superhydrophobic Surface.

PubMed

Ju, Jie; Yao, Xi; Hou, Xu; Liu, Qihan; Zhang, Yu Shrike; Khademhosseini, Ali

2017-08-21

Superhydrophobic surface simultaneously possessing exceptional stretchability, robustness, and non-fluorination is highly desirable in applications ranging from wearable devices to artificial skins. While conventional superhydrophobic surfaces typically feature stretchability, robustness, or non-fluorination individually, co-existence of all these features still remains a great challenge. Here we report a multi-performance superhydrophobic surface achieved through incorporating hydrophilic micro-sized particles with pre-stretched silicone elastomer. The commercial silicone elastomer (Ecoflex) endowed the resulting surface with high stretchability; the densely packed micro-sized particles in multi-layers contributed to the preservation of the large surface roughness even under large strains; and the physical encapsulation of the microparticles by silicone elastomer due to the capillary dragging effect and the chemical interaction between the hydrophilic silica and the elastomer gave rise to the robust and non-fluorinated superhydrophobicity. It was demonstrated that the as-prepared fluorine-free surface could preserve the superhydrophobicity under repeated stretching-relaxing cycles. Most importantly, the surface's superhydrophobicity can be well maintained after severe rubbing process, indicating wear-resistance. Our novel superhydrophobic surface integrating multiple key properties, i.e. stretchability, robustness, and non-fluorination, is expected to provide unique advantages for a wide range of applications in biomedicine, energy, and electronics.

Rapid and Low-cost Prototyping of Medical Devices Using 3D Printed Molds for Liquid Injection Molding

PubMed Central

Chung, Philip; Heller, J. Alex; Etemadi, Mozziyar; Ottoson, Paige E.; Liu, Jonathan A.; Rand, Larry; Roy, Shuvo

2014-01-01

Biologically inert elastomers such as silicone are favorable materials for medical device fabrication, but forming and curing these elastomers using traditional liquid injection molding processes can be an expensive process due to tooling and equipment costs. As a result, it has traditionally been impractical to use liquid injection molding for low-cost, rapid prototyping applications. We have devised a method for rapid and low-cost production of liquid elastomer injection molded devices that utilizes fused deposition modeling 3D printers for mold design and a modified desiccator as an injection system. Low costs and rapid turnaround time in this technique lower the barrier to iteratively designing and prototyping complex elastomer devices. Furthermore, CAD models developed in this process can be later adapted for metal mold tooling design, enabling an easy transition to a traditional injection molding process. We have used this technique to manufacture intravaginal probes involving complex geometries, as well as overmolding over metal parts, using tools commonly available within an academic research laboratory. However, this technique can be easily adapted to create liquid injection molded devices for many other applications. PMID:24998993

Technology of an adhesive silicone film as drug carrier in transdermal therapy. I: Analytical methods used for characterization and design of the universal elastomer layers.

PubMed

Mojsiewicz-Pieńkowska, Krystyna; Jamrógiewicz, Marzena; Zebrowska, Maria; Sznitowska, Małgorzata; Centkowska, Katarzyna

2011-08-25

Silicone polymers possess unique properties, which make them suitable for many different applications, for example in the pharmaceutical and medical industry. To create an adhesive silicone film, the appropriate silicone components have to be chosen first. From these components two layers were made: an adhesive elastomer applied on the skin, and a non-adhesive elastomer on the other side of the film. The aim of this study was to identify a set of analytical methods that can be used for detailed characterization of the elastomer layers, as needed when designing new silicone films. More specifically, the following methods were combined to detailed identification of the silicone components: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) and size exclusion chromatography with evaporative light scattering detector (SEC-ELSD). It was demonstrated that these methods together with a rheological analysis are suitable for controlling the cross-linking reaction, thus obtaining the desired properties of the silicone film. Adhesive silicone films can be used as universal materials for medical use, particularly for effective treatment of scars and keloids or as drug carriers in transdermal therapy.

Compatibility Assessment of Fuel System Elastomers with Bio-oil and Diesel Fuel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kass, Michael D.; Janke, Christopher J.; Connatser, Raynella M.

Here we report that bio-oil derived via fast pyrolysis is being developed as a renewable fuel option for petroleum distillates. The compatibility of neat bio-oil with six elastomer types was evaluated against the elastomer performance in neat diesel fuel, which served as the baseline. The elastomers included two fluorocarbons, six acrylonitrile butadiene rubbers (NBRs), and one type each of fluorosilicone, silicone, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), polyurethane, and neoprene. Specimens of each material were exposed to the liquid and gaseous phases of the test fuels for 4 weeks at 60 °C, and properties in the wetted and dried states were measured.more » Exposure to bio-oil produced significant volume expansion in the fluorocarbons, NBRs, and fluorosilicone; however, excessive swelling (over 80%) was only observed for the two fluorocarbons and two NBR grades. The polyurethane specimens were completely degraded by the bio-oil. In contrast, both silicone and SBR exhibited lower swelling levels in bio-oil compared to neat diesel fuel. The implication is that, while polyurethane and fluorocarbon may not be acceptable seal materials for bio-oils, silicone may offer a lower cost alternative.« less

Large amplitude oscillatory measurements as mechanical characterization methods for soft elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skov, Anne L.

2012-04-01

Mechanical characterization of soft elastomers is usually done either by traditional shear rheometry in the linear viscoelastic (LVE) regime (i.e. low strains) or by extensional rheology in the nonlinear regime. However, in many commercially available rheometers for nonlinear extensions the measurements rely on certain assumptions such as a predefined shape alteration and are very hard to perform on soft elastomers in most cases. The LVE data provides information on important parameters for DEAP purposes such as the Young's modulus and the tendency to viscous dissipation (at low strains only) but provides no information on the strain hardening or softening effects at larger strains, and the mechanical breakdown strength. Therefore it is obvious that LVE can not be used as the single mechanical characterization tool in large strain applications. We show how the data set of LVE, and large amplitude oscillating elongation (LAOE)1 and planar elongation2,3 make the ideal set of experiments to evaluate the mechanical performance of DEAPs. We evaluate the mechanical performance of several soft elastomers applicable for DEAP purposes such as poly(propyleneoxide) (PPO) networks3,4 and traditional unfilled silicone (PDMS) networks5.

Rupture of a highly stretchable acrylic dielectric elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pharr, George; Sun, Jeong-Yun; Suo, Zhigang

2012-02-01

Dielectric elastomers have found widespread application as energy harvesters, actuators, and sensors. In practice these elastomers are subject to large tensile stretches, which potentially can lead to mechanical fracture. In this study, we have examined fracture properties of the commercial acrylic elastomer VHB 4905. We have found that inserting a pre-cut into the material drastically reduces the stretch at rupture from λrup = 9.43±1.05 for pristine samples down to only λrup = 3.63±0.45 for the samples with a pre-cut. Furthermore, using ``pure-shear'' test specimens with a pre-crack, we have measured the fracture energy and stretch at rupture as a function of the sample geometry. The stretch at rupture was found to decrease with sample height, which agrees with an analytical prediction. Additionally, we have measured the fracture energy as a function of stretch-rate. The apparent fracture energy was found to increase with stretch-rate from γ 1500 J/m^2 to γ 5000 J/m^2 for the investigated rates of deformation. This phenomenon is due to viscoelastic properties of VHB 4905, which result in an apparent stiffening for sufficiently large stretch-rates.

Compatibility Assessment of Fuel System Elastomers with Bio-oil and Diesel Fuel

DOE PAGES

Kass, Michael D.; Janke, Christopher J.; Connatser, Raynella M.; ...

2016-07-12

Here we report that bio-oil derived via fast pyrolysis is being developed as a renewable fuel option for petroleum distillates. The compatibility of neat bio-oil with six elastomer types was evaluated against the elastomer performance in neat diesel fuel, which served as the baseline. The elastomers included two fluorocarbons, six acrylonitrile butadiene rubbers (NBRs), and one type each of fluorosilicone, silicone, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), polyurethane, and neoprene. Specimens of each material were exposed to the liquid and gaseous phases of the test fuels for 4 weeks at 60 °C, and properties in the wetted and dried states were measured.more » Exposure to bio-oil produced significant volume expansion in the fluorocarbons, NBRs, and fluorosilicone; however, excessive swelling (over 80%) was only observed for the two fluorocarbons and two NBR grades. The polyurethane specimens were completely degraded by the bio-oil. In contrast, both silicone and SBR exhibited lower swelling levels in bio-oil compared to neat diesel fuel. The implication is that, while polyurethane and fluorocarbon may not be acceptable seal materials for bio-oils, silicone may offer a lower cost alternative.« less

New reusable elastomer electrodes for assessing body composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moreno, M.-V.; Chaset, L.; Bittner, P. A.; Barthod, C.; Passard, M.

2013-04-01

The development of telemedicine requires finding solutions of reusable electrodes for use in patients' homes. The objective of this study is to evaluate the relevance of reusable elastomer electrodes for measuring body composition. We measured a population of healthy Caucasian (n = 17). A measurement was made with a reference device, the Xitron®, associated with AgCl Gel electrodes (Gel) and another measurement with a multifrequency impedancemeter Z-Metrix® associated with reusable elastomer electrodes (Elast). We obtained a low variability with an average error of repeatability of 0.39% for Re and 0.32% for Rinf. There is a non significantly difference (P T-test > 0.1) about 200 ml between extracellular water Ve measured with Gel and Elast in supine and in standing position. For total body water Vt, we note a non significantly difference (P T-test > 0.1) about 100 ml and 2.2 1 respectively in supine and standing position. The results give low dispersion, with R2 superior to 0.90, with a 1.5% maximal error between Gel and Elast on Ve in standing position. It looks possible, taking a few precautions, using elastomer electrodes for assessing body composition.

(Electro)Mechanical Properties of Olefinic Block Copolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spontak, Richard

2014-03-01

Conventional styrenic triblock copolymers (SBCs) swollen with a midblock-selective oil have been previously shown to exhibit excellent electromechanical properties as dielectric elastomers. In this class of electroactive polymers, compliant electrodes applied as active areas to opposing surfaces of an elastomer attract each other, and thus compress the elastomer due to the onset of a Maxwell stress, upon application of an external electric field. This isochoric process is accompanied by an increase in lateral area, which yields the electroactuation strain (measuring beyond 300% in SBC systems). Performance parameters such as the Maxwell stress, transverse strain, dielectric breakdown, energy density and electromechanical efficiency are determined directly from the applied electric field and resulting electroactuation strain. In this study, the same principle used to evaluate SBC systems is extended to olefinic block copolymers (OBCs), which can be described as randomly-coupled multiblock copolymers that consist of crystallizable polyethylene hard segments and rubbery poly(ethylene-co-octene) soft segments. Considerations governing the development of a methodology to fabricate electroresponsive OBC systems are first discussed for several OBCs differing in composition and bulk properties. Evidence of electroactuation in selectively-solvated OBC systems is presented and performance metrics measured therefrom are quantitatively compared with dielectric elastomers derived from SBC and related materials.

Synthesis of highly elastic biocompatible polyurethanes based on bio-based isosorbide and poly(tetramethylene glycol) and their properties

PubMed Central

Kim, Hyo-Jin; Kang, Min-Sil; Knowles, Jonathan C

2014-01-01

Bio-based high elastic polyurethanes were prepared from hexamethylene diisocyanate and various ratios of isosorbide to poly(tetramethylene glycol) as a diol by a simple one-shot bulk polymerization without a catalyst. Successful synthesis of the polyurethanes was confirmed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance. Thermal properties were determined by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The glass transition temperature was −47.8℃. The test results showed that the poly(tetramethylene glycol)/isosorbide-based elastomer exhibited not only excellent stress–strain properties but also superior resilience to the existing polyether-based polyurethane elastomers. The static and dynamic properties of the polyether/isosorbide-based thermoplastic elastomer were more suitable for dynamic applications. Moreover, such rigid diols impart biocompatible and bioactive properties to thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers. Degradation tests performed at 37℃ in phosphate buffer solution showed a mass loss of 4–9% after 8 weeks, except for the polyurethane with the lowest isosorbide content, which showed an initial rapid weight loss. These polyurethanes offer significant promise due to soft, flexible and biocompatible properties for soft tissue augmentation and regeneration. PMID:24812276

Internal phase transition induced by external forces in Finsler geometric model for membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koibuchi, Hiroshi; Shobukhov, Andrey

2016-10-01

In this paper, we numerically study an anisotropic shape transformation of membranes under external forces for two-dimensional triangulated surfaces on the basis of Finsler geometry. The Finsler metric is defined by using a vector field, which is the tangential component of a three-dimensional unit vector σ corresponding to the tilt or some external macromolecules on the surface of disk topology. The sigma model Hamiltonian is assumed for the tangential component of σ with the interaction coefficient λ. For large (small) λ, the surface becomes oblong (collapsed) at relatively small bending rigidity. For the intermediate λ, the surface becomes planar. Conversely, fixing the surface with the boundary of area A or with the two-point boundaries of distance L, we find that the variable σ changes from random to aligned state with increasing of A or L for the intermediate region of λ. This implies that an internal phase transition for σ is triggered not only by the thermal fluctuations, but also by external mechanical forces. We also find that the frame (string) tension shows the expected scaling behavior with respect to A/N (L/N) at the intermediate region of A (L) where the σ configuration changes between the disordered and ordered phases. Moreover, we find that the string tension γ at sufficiently large λ is considerably smaller than that at small λ. This phenomenon resembles the so-called soft-elasticity in the liquid crystal elastomer, which is deformed by small external tensile forces.

Networks 90: Polymer Networks Group Meeting (10th) and IUPAC international Symposium on Polymer Networks (10th) Held in Jerusalem on 20-25 May 1990. Programme and Abstracts

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-05-25

INCLUDING ORIENTATIONAL INTERACTIONS BETWEEN CHAIN SEGMENTS B. Deloche, E.T. Samulski (France, USA) CHAIN SEGMENT ORDERING IN STRAINED BIMODAL P-2 PDMS...theory of elastomers is difficult because it requires a detailed study of many body interactions . A theory of elasticity must address the following: (1...a Kirchhoff matrix which describes the connectivity of the network (Kc) or the linear chains (Ku). The nonbonded interactions are handled with the

Consort 1 sounding rocket flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wessling, Francis C.; Maybee, George W.

1989-01-01

This paper describes a payload of six experiments developed for a 7-min microgravity flight aboard a sounding rocket Consort 1, in order to investigate the effects of low gravity on certain material processes. The experiments in question were designed to test the effect of microgravity on the demixing of aqueous polymer two-phase systems, the electrodeposition process, the production of elastomer-modified epoxy resins, the foam formation process and the characteristics of foam, the material dispersion, and metal sintering. The apparatuses designed for these experiments are examined, and the rocket-payload integration and operations are discussed.

Silicone elastomers capable of large isotropic dimensional change

DOEpatents

Lewicki, James; Worsley, Marcus A.

2017-07-18

Described herein is a highly effective route towards the controlled and isotropic reduction in size-scale, of complex 3D structures using silicone network polymer chemistry. In particular, a class of silicone structures were developed that once patterned and cured can `shrink` micron scale additive manufactured and lithographically patterned structures by as much as 1 order of magnitude while preserving the dimensions and integrity of these parts. This class of silicone materials is compatible with existing additive manufacture and soft lithographic fabrication processes and will allow access to a hitherto unobtainable dimensionality of fabrication.

DuPont Dow Elastomers, Order Denying Petition for Objection to Permit

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document may be of assistance in applying the Title V air operating permit regulations. This document is part of the Title V Petition Database available at www2.epa.gov/title-v-operating-permits/title-v-petition-database. Some documents in the database are a scanned or retyped version of a paper photocopy of the original. Although we have taken considerable effort to quality assure the documents, some may contain typographical errors. Contact the office that issued the document if you need a copy of the original.

Effects of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on rheological and physical properties of polyamide-based thermoplastic elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bae, Won-Sik; Kwon, Oh Joo; Kim, Byoung Chul; Chae, Dong Wook

2012-09-01

The polyamide-based thermoplastic elastomers (Pebax®) were melt compounded with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs: 0.25˜5 wt%) and the variation of rheological and physical properties with MWNT contents was investigated. The crystallization temperature (Tc) of the nanocomposites with 0.5 wt% MWNTs was most increased by ca. 8oC, but it was decreased by further addition. In addition, the presence of MWNTs broadened the Tc peak with increasing nanotube contents. In contrast, the melting behavior was little influenced by the presence of MWNTs for all compositions. The incorporation of MWNTs increased the complex viscosity with MWNT contents and the abrupt increase was observed from 1 wt%. In addition, lower Newtonian flow region became disappearing with increasing MWNT contents, exhibiting notable shear thinning behavior from 1 wt% loading. Storage modulus was increased with MWNT contents in a similar manner to viscosity. Casson plot demonstrated a non-zero positive intercept for all the samples. In particular, the abrupt increase of yield stress was observed from 1 wt% loading. In the Cole-Cole plot, the nanocomposites gave a deviated curve from pure Pebax and the slope was decreased with increasing MWNT contents. The relaxation time calculated from viscoelastic parameters was increased with nanotube contents, but the increasing extents were reduced with increasing frequency. From 2 wt% MWNTs, the electrical conductivity was observed, indicating that the electrical percolation existed between 1.5 and 2 wt%. At 0.25 wt% loading the tensile strength was slightly increased, but it was gradually decreased by further addition. The introduction of MWNTs increased the tensile modulus with nanotube contents. In addition, ductile properties were reduced with increasing MWNT contents, resulting in low toughness.

New dielectric elastomers with improved properties for energy harvesting and actuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stiubianu, George; Bele, Adrian; Tugui, Codrin; Musteata, Valentina

2015-02-01

New materials with large value for dielectric constant were obtained by using siloxane and chemically modified lignin. The modified lignin does not act as a stiffening filler material for the siloxane but acts as bulk filler, preserving the softness and low value of Young's modulus specific for silicones. The measured values for dielectric constant compare positively with the ones for previously tested dielectric elastomers based on siloxane rubber or acrylic rubber loaded with ceramic nanoparticles. The new materials use the well-known silicone chemistry and lignin which is available worldwide in large amounts as a by-product of pulp and paper industry, making its manufacturing affordable. The prepared dielectric elastomers were tested for possible applications for wave, wind and kinetic body motion energy harvesting. Siloxane, lignin, dielectric

New integrated silicon-PDMS process for compliant micro-mechanisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haouas, Wissem; Dahmouche, Redwan; Agnus, Joël; Le Fort-Piat, Nadine; Laurent, Guillaume J.

2017-12-01

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers are used for many applications, such as microfluidics and micro-engineering. This paper presents a new process of integrating soft elastomers into a silicon structure without any assembly steps. The novelty of this process is the use of only one deep reactive ion etch (DRIE) instead of two or more as developed in previous works. Thus, this fabrication process allows the use of elastomers that are usually not compatible with some fabrication processes. Compliant flexures with different interference shapes have been designed, simulated, fabricated, and characterized for generic use and notably for micro-robot joints and compliant micro-systems. The experimental results show that the 400 μm  ×  400 μm cross-sectional area samples can be bended more than 60\\circ without delamination.

Dynamics of supersonic microparticle impact on elastomers revealed by real–time multi–frame imaging

PubMed Central

Veysset, David; Hsieh, Alex J.; Kooi, Steven; Maznev, Alexei A.; Masser, Kevin A.; Nelson, Keith A.

2016-01-01

Understanding high–velocity microparticle impact is essential for many fields, from space exploration to medicine and biology. Investigations of microscale impact have hitherto been limited to post–mortem analysis of impacted specimens, which does not provide direct information on the impact dynamics. Here we report real–time multi–frame imaging studies of the impact of 7 μm diameter glass spheres traveling at 700–900 m/s on elastomer polymers. With a poly(urethane urea) (PUU) sample, we observe a hyperelastic impact phenomenon not seen on the macroscale: a microsphere undergoes a full conformal penetration into the specimen followed by a rebound which leaves the specimen unscathed. The results challenge the established interpretation of the behaviour of elastomers under high–velocity impact. PMID:27156501

Apparatus, system, and method for providing fabric-elastomer composites as pneumatic actuators

DOEpatents

Martinez, Ramses V.; Whitesides, George M.

2017-10-25

Soft pneumatic actuators based on composites consisting of elastomers with embedded sheet or fiber structures (e.g., paper or fabric) that are flexible but not extensible are described. On pneumatic inflation, these actuators move anisotropically, based on the motions accessible by their composite structures. They are inexpensive, simple to fabricate, light in weight, and easy to actuate. This class of structure is versatile: the same principles of design lead to actuators that respond to pressurization with a wide range of motions (bending, extension, contraction, twisting, and others). Paper, when used to introduce anisotropy into elastomers, can be readily folded into three-dimensional structures following the principles of origami; these folded structures increase the stiffness and anisotropy of the elastomeric actuators, while keeping them light in weight.

Elastomer coated filler and composites thereof comprising at least 60% by weight of a hydrated filler and an elastomer containing an acid substituent

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mueller, W. A.; Ingham, J. D.; Reilly, W. W. (Inventor)

1983-01-01

The impact resistance of flame retardant composites, especially thermoplastic molding: compounds containing over 60% hydrated mineral filler such as Al(OH)3 or Mg(OH)2 as improved by coating the filler with 1 to 20% of an elastomer. The composite will fail by crazing or shearing rather than by brittle fracture. A well bonded elastomeric interphase resulted by utilizing acidic substituted resins such as ethyl-hexyl acrylate-acrylic acid copolymers which bond to and are cross-linked by the basic filler particles. Further improvement in impact resistance was provided by incorporating 1 to 10% of a resin fiber reinforcement such as polyvinyl alcohol fibers that decompose to yield at least 30% water when heated to decomposition temperature.

Elastomeric fluorinated polyurethane coatings for nontoxic fouling control.

PubMed

Brady, Robert F; Aronson, Carl L

2003-04-01

Nontoxic antifouling coatings have been investigated for many years as possible successors to toxic antifouling paints. Polymers containing fluorine or silicone have been tested and each has been shown to be partially effective for different reasons. This paper describes a new coating which combines the best features of fluorinated and silicone coatings and is non-toxic. Four fluorinated elastomers were prepared and tested for fouling resistance during a full fouling season. The surface energy and mechanical properties of each polymer were measured and correlated to fouling performance. One of the elastomers was shown to foul slowly, clean easily, be durable in the marine environment and organisms bonded to it only weakly. The surface energy, elastic modulus, and thickness of the elastomer may be varied as desired over wide ranges to meet differing performance requirements.

Magnetomechanical properties of composites and fibers made from thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and carbonyl iron powder (CIP)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schrödner, Mario; Pflug, Günther

2018-05-01

Magnetoactive elastomers (MAE) made from composites of five thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) of different stiffness with carbonyl iron powder (CIP) as magnetic component were investigated. The composites were produced by melt blending of the magnetic particles with the TPEs in a twin-screw extruder. The resulting materials were characterized by ac permeability testing, stress-strain measurements with and without external magnetic field and magnetically controlled bending of long cylindrical rods in a homogenous magnetic field. The magnetic field necessary for deflection of the rods decreases with decreasing modulus and increasing iron particle content. This effect can be used e.g. for magnetically controlled actuation. Some highly filled MAE show a magnetic field induced increase of Young's modulus. Filaments could be spun from some of the composites.

Benzophenone as a photoprobe of polymer films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levin, Peter P.; Efremkin, Alexei F.; Khudyakov, Igor V.

2017-09-01

The review article is devoted to kinetics of fast reactions following photoexcitation of benzophenone in polymer films. We observed three processes by ns laser flash photolysis in elastomers: (i) decay of a triple state of benzophenone with hydrogen abstraction from polymer matrix, (ii) formation and decay of geminate radical pairs, (iii) cross-termination of the formed radicals in the polymer bulk. Application of external magnetic field (MF) of B = 0.2 T essentially affects recombination of geminate (G-) and a bimolecular recombination of free radicals, which escaped polymer cage (F-pairs). Theoretical calculation of MF effects on G- and F-pairs is in agreement with corresponding experimental data. Elongation of elastomer leads to an unexpected observation: recombination in the bulk becomes slower. An explanation of this phenomenon based on elastomer free volume Vf approach was suggested.

Modeling of electrically actuated elastomer structures for electro-optical modulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kluge, Christian; Galler, Nicole; Ditlbacher, Harald; Gerken, Martina

2011-02-01

A transparent elastomer layer sandwiched between two metal electrodes deforms upon voltage application due to electrostatic forces. This structure can be used as tunable waveguide. We investigate structures of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) layer with 1-30 μm thickness and 40 nm gold electrodes. For extended electrodes the effect size may be calculated analytically as a function of the Poisson ratio. A fully coupled finite-element method (FEM) is used for calculation of the position-dependent deformation in case of structured electrodes. Different geometries are compared concerning actuation effect size and homogeneity. Structuring of the top electrode results in high effect magnitude, but non-uniform deformation concentrated at the electrode edges. Structured bottom electrodes provide good compromise between effect size and homogeneity for electrode widths of 2.75 times the elastomer thickness.

Characterization of the Protein Crystal Growth Apparatus for Microgravity Aboard the Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kundrot, Craig E.; Roeber, D.; Achari, A.; Stinson, Thomas N. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

We have conducted experiments to determine the equilibration rates of some major precipitants used in protein crystallography aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The solutions were placed in the Protein Crystallization Apparatus for Microgravity (PCAM) which mimic Cryschem sitting drop trays. The trays were placed in cylinders. These cylinders were placed inside a Single locker Thermal Enclosure System (STES), and were activated for different durations during the flight. Bumpers pressed against elastomers seal drops in a deactivated state during pre-flight and prior to transfer to the ISS. Activation occurs while in flight on the ISS by releasing the bumpers allowing the drops to be exposed to the reservoir. PCAM was flown to the ISS on STS 100, Flight 6A, on April 19, 2001. Six series of equilibration experiments were tested for each precipitant with a small amount of Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). Cylinder 10 was never activated, 7 was activated for 40 days, 8 was activated for 20 days, 9 was activated for 10 days, 11 was activated for 4 days and 12 was activated for 2 days. Upon the return to Earth by STS 104 on July 24,2001 the samples were transferred to Marshall Space Flight Center. The samples were then brought to the lab and the volumes of each sample were measured.

Polyolefin Nanocomposites with Enhanced Photostability Weathering Effect on Morphology and Mechanical Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panda, Bishnu P.; Mohanty, Smita; Nayak, Sanjay K.

2014-09-01

This research aims to study the effect of accelerated weathering conditions on the photodegradation characteristics for fibrillar silicate clay-filled Polypropylene (PP) nanocomposites in the presence of metallocene linear low density polyethylene (m-LLDPE). Silane-treated attapulgite (ATP) clay along with ethylene octene elastomer-grafted maleic anhydride (POE-g-MAH) was used to compatibilize both blend and nanocomposite system. The result showed that developed PP/m-LLDPE nanocomposites displayed good UV resistance with little change in retained stress-at-break and elongation-at-break values. Balanced loss of toughness values noted maintaining higher fracture toughness values for nanocomposites containing 5 phr ATP clay. Infrared analysis was used to detect progress of degradation followed by change in carbonyl index revealed predominated chain scission in late irradiation, while crosslinking was dominant for initial irradiation period. An increase in crystallinity during UV exposure (chemi-crystallization) was detected with exposure time for all compositions and virtually independent of initial structure of the polymer. The highest value of crystallization observed for PP and the lowest one for nanocomposites containing 5 phr of ATP clay revealed good oxidation stability. Surface morphology revealed induced degradation throughout cross-section of PP, while severity of the surface degradation was significantly reduced for developed nanocomposites.

Flooded Cell Permeation Testing of Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-03-01

cured hydrin (EC) elastomer 3. oxide cured neoprene (CR) 4. sulphur cured styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) 5. sulphur cured nitrile rubber ( NBR ) 6. cured...Road Adelphi, MD 20783-1197 11. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES Presented at the meeting of the American Chemical Society, Rubber Division, Orlando, Florida, 26 Oct...6 2. Permeation rate-time curve for DMSO through natural rubber ............................... 6 3. Permeation rate-time curve for DMSO through

Multifunctional Graphene-Silicone Elastomer Nanocomposite, Method of Making the Same, and Uses Thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aksay, Ilhan A. (Inventor); Pan, Shuyang (Inventor); Prud'Homme, Robert K. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

A nanocomposite composition having a silicone elastomer matrix having therein a filler loading of greater than 0.05 weight percentage, based on total nanocomposite weight, wherein the filler is functional graphene sheets (FGS) having a surface area of from 300 square meters per gram to 2630 square meters per gram; and a method for producing the nanocomposite and uses thereof.

Plate-Impact Measurements of a Select Model Poly(urethane urea) Elastomer

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

experiments, and data for polyurea (dashed line) are also included for comparison. .....................................8 List of Tables Table 1...6 1 1. Introduction High-performance polyurea elastomers have recently gained considerable interest throughout the U.S. Department of...studies on high-strain-rate mechanical deformation and modeling (3, 6–11), wherein most are focused on a commercial polyurea . The commercial polyureas

Development of Improved LOX-Compatible Laminated Gasket Composite

DTIC Science & Technology

1966-08-01

Braided Teflon 2. Bleached fluorocarbon felt 3. Teflon and asbestos fibers 4. Teflon and ceramic fibers 5. Teflon and glass fibers 6. Viton A and asbestos 7...fluorinated ethylene- propylene (Teflon FEP), polychlorotrifluoroethylene films (Aclar - Kel F), and fluorocarbon elastomers (Viton A - Fluorel, etc...2nd 10th CYCLE CYCLE CYCLE CYCLE CYCLE CYCLE CYCLE CYCLE CYCLE FILLED FLUOROCARBON GLASS FILLED TEFLON FLUOROCARBON LAMINATE ELASTOMER Figure 21

Preliminary Design Guide for Arctic Equipment

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-05-01

areas that need to be addressed. The components of the various assemblies that Metals , plastics and elastomers make up the subject piece of equipment...polyester elastomer . Allow sufficient length for contraction (- 10- in./in, per IF). Do not allow long, unsup- ported lengths of hose . Lubricants Viscosity...this compressed air cools upon several manufacturers offer teflon hoses with expansion and contact with a cold surface, the braided stainless steel

Non-Sintered Nickel Electrode

DOEpatents

Bernard, Patrick; Dennig, Corinne; Cocciantelli, Jean-Michel; Alcorta, Jose; Coco, Isabelle

2002-01-01

A non-sintered nickel electrode contains a conductive support and a paste comprising an electrochemically active material containing nickel hydroxide and a binder which is a mixture of an elastomer and a crystalline polymer. The proportion of the elastomer is in the range 25% to 60% by weight of the binder and the proportion of the crystalline polymer is in the range 40% to 75% by weight of the binder.

2.75-Inch Motor Manufacturing Waste Minimization Project

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-19

Certification Program FEM Finite element model HFMI Highly Filled Materials Institute HOE Heat of explosion ICT Institute of Chemical Technology IHDIV...Trinitrotoluene TOW Tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided missile TPE Thermoplastic elastomers TSE Twin screw mixer/extruder VPDES Virginia Pollution...extruded and test fired. 1996–1997 Inert TPE Processing: Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are ideal binders for “green energetics” because they do

Dielectric and Electromechanical Properties of Polyurethane and Polydimethylsiloxane Blends and their Nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cakmak, Enes

Conventional means of converting electrical energy to mechanical work are generally considered too noisy and bulky for many contemporary technologies such as microrobotic, microfluidic, and haptic devices. Dielectric electroactive polymers (D-EAPs) constitude a growing class of electroactive polymers (EAP) that are capable of producing mechanica work induced by an applied electric field. D-EAPs are considered remarkably efficient and well suited for a wide range of applications, including ocean-wave energy harvesters and prosthetic devices. However, the real-world application of D-EAPs is very limited due to a number of factors, one of which is the difficulty of producing high actuation strains at acceptably low electric fields. D-EAPs are elastomeric polymers and produce large strain response induced by external electric field. The electromechanical properties of D-EAPs depend on the dielectric properties and mechanical properties of the D-EAP. In terms of dielectric behavior, these actuators require a high dielectric constant, low dielectric loss, and high dielectric strength to produce an improved actuation response. In addition to their dielectric properties, the mechanical properties of D-EAPs, such as elastic moduli and hysteresis, are also of importance. Therefore, material properties are a key feature of D-EAP technology. DE actuator materials reported in the literature cover many types of elastomers and their composites formed with dielectric fillers. Along with polymeric matrix materials, various ceramic, metal, and organic fillers have been employed in enhancing dielectric behavior of DEs. This work describes an effort to characterize elastomer blends and composites of different matrix and dielectric polymer fillers according to their dielectric, mechanical, and electromechanical responses. This dissertation focuses on the development and characterization of polymer-polymer blends and composites from a high-k polyurethane (PU) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers. Two different routes were followed with respect to elastomer processing: The first is a simple solution blending of the two types of elastomers, and the second is based on preparation of composites from PU nanofiber webs and PDMS elastomer. Both the blends and the nanofiber web composites showed improved dielectric and actuation characteristics.

Roles of bond orientational ordering in glass transition and crystallization.

PubMed

Tanaka, Hajime

2011-07-20

It is widely believed that crystallization in three dimensions is primarily controlled by positional ordering, and not by bond orientational ordering. In other words, bond orientational ordering is usually considered to be merely a consequence of positional ordering and thus has often been ignored. This one-order-parameter (density) description may be reasonable when we consider an equilibrium liquid-solid transition, but may not be enough to describe a metastable state and the kinetics of the transition. Here we propose that bond orientational ordering can play a key role in (i) crystallization, (ii) the ordering to quasi-crystal and (iii) vitrification, which occurs under rather weak frustration against crystallization. In a metastable supercooled state before crystallization, a system generally tends to have bond orientational order at least locally as a result of a constraint of dense packing. For a system interacting with hard-core repulsions, the constraint is intrinsically of geometrical origin and thus the basic physics is the same as nematic ordering of rod-like particles upon densification. Furthermore, positional ordering is easily destroyed even by weak frustration such as polydispersity and anisotropic interactions which favour a symmetry not consistent with that of the equilibrium crystal. Thus we may say that vitrification can be achieved by disturbing and prohibiting long-range positional ordering. Even in such a situation, bond orientational ordering still survives, accompanying its critical-like fluctuations, which are the origin of dynamic heterogeneity for this case. This scenario naturally explains both the absence of positional order and the development of bond orientational order upon cooling in a supercooled state. Although our argument is speculative in nature, we emphasize that this physical picture can coherently explain crystallization, vitrification, quasi-crystallization and their relationship in a natural manner. For a strongly frustrated system, even bond orientational order can be destroyed. Even in such a case there may still appear a structural signature of dense packing, which is linked to slow dynamics.

Phase separations in mixtures of a liquid crystal and a nanocolloidal particle.

PubMed

Matsuyama, Akihiko

2009-11-28

We present a mean field theory to describe phase separations in mixtures of a liquid crystal and a nanocolloidal particle. By taking into account a nematic, a smectic A ordering of the liquid crystal, and a crystalline ordering of the nanoparticle, we calculate the phase diagrams on the temperature-concentration plane. We predict various phase separations, such as a smectic A-crystal phase separation and a smectic A-isotropic-crystal triple point, etc., depending on the interactions between the liquid crystal and the colloidal surface. Inside binodal curves, we find new unstable and metastable regions, which are important in the phase ordering dynamics. We also find a crystalline ordering of the nanoparticles dispersed in a smectic A phase and a nematic phase. The cooperative phenomena between liquid-crystalline ordering and crystalline ordering induce a variety of phase diagrams.

Characteristics of Elastomer Seals Exposed to Space Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daniels, Christopher C.; deGroh, Henry, III; Dunlap, Patrick H., Jr.; Finkbeiner, Joshua R.; Steinetz, Bruce M.; Bastrzyk, Marta B.; Oswald, Jay J.; Banks, Bruce A.; Dever, Joyce A.; Miller, Sharon K.;

A low-cost efficient and durable low-temperature solar collector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Odonnell, T. P.

The considered collector utilizes a material made of ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer (EPDM). This material has been used in solar systems to heat domestic water, pools, spas, and homes by radiant energy. EPDM or ethylene propylene rubber compounds are synthetic elastomers. EPDM elastomers combine superior ozone, good heat and oxygen resistance, and very good low temperature properties to produce a compound with excellent overall age resistance. The material is extruded into 4.4 inch wide mats. Each mat has six small tubes alternating with thin webbing. The absorber mat will adhere to any clean building surface with the use of thermosetting construction-grade mastic adhesive. Carbon black contained in the mat material acts to increase the solar absorptivity. Their low cost makes the elastomers commercially very attractive. The efficiency and durability of the material are discussed.

Development of procedures for calculating stiffness and damping properties of elastomers in engineering applications. Part 2: Elastomer characteristics at constant temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gupta, P. K.; Tessarzik, J. M.; Cziglenyi, L.

1974-01-01

Dynamic properties of a commerical polybutadiene compound were determined at a constant temperature of 32 C by a forced-vibration resonant mass type of apparatus. The constant thermal state of the elastomer was ensured by keeping the ambient temperature constant and by limiting the power dissipation in the specimen. Experiments were performed with both compression and shear specimens at several preloads (nominal strain varying from 0 to 5 percent), and the results are reported in terms of a complex stiffness as a function of frequency. Very weak frequency dependence is observed and a simple power law type of correlation is shown to represent the data well. Variations in the complex stiffness as a function of preload are also found to be small for both compression and shear specimens.

Anticipating electrical breakdown in dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muffoletto, Daniel P.; Burke, Kevin M.; Zirnheld, Jennifer L.

2013-04-01

The output strain of a dielectric elastomer actuator is directly proportional to the square of its applied electric field. However, since the likelihood of electric breakdown is elevated with an increased applied field, the maximum operating electric field of the dielectric elastomer is significantly derated in systems employing these actuators so that failure due to breakdown remains unlikely even as the material ages. In an effort to ascertain the dielectric strength so that stronger electric fields can be applied, partial discharge testing is used to assess the health of the actuator by detecting the charge that is released when localized instances of breakdown partially bridge the insulator. Pre-stretched and unstretched samples of VHB4910 tape were submerged in dielectric oil to remove external sources of partial discharges during testing, and the partial discharge patterns were recorded just before failure of the dielectric sample.

EPDM polymers with intermolecular asymmetrical molecular weight, crystallinity and diene distribution

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Datta, S.; Cheremishinoff, N.P.; Kresge, E.N.

1993-12-31

Rapid extrusion of EPDM elastomers require low viscosity and thus low molecular weights for the polymer. Efficient vulcanization of these elastomers requires network perfection and thus high molecular weights for the polymer. The benefits of these apparently mutually exclusive goals is important in uses of EPDM elastomers which require extrusion of profiles which are later cured. This paper shows that by introducing simultaneously asymmetry in the distribution of molecular weights, crystallinity and vulcanizable sites these apparently contradictory goals can be resolved. While these polymers cannot be made from a single Ziegler polymerization catalyst, the authors show the synthesis of thesemore » model EPDM polymers by blending polymers with very different molecular weights, ethylene and ENB contents. These blends can be rapidly extruded without melt fracture and can be cured to vulcanizates which have excellent tensile properties.« less

On the mobility of iron particles embedded in elastomeric silicone matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rabindranath, R.; Böse, H.

2013-02-01

In this contribution the rheological and magnetorheological properties of different polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based magnetorheological elastomers (MRE) are presented and discussed. In order to investigate the mobility of the iron particles with respect to the rheological characteristics, the iron particles were silanized with vinyltrimethoxysilane to enable a reaction between the modified particle and the cross-linking agent of the silicone elastomer. In addition, the vinyl-functionalized particles were further modified by the coupling of the superficial vinyl groups with a long-chain hydride terminated PDMS, which enables a reaction pathway with the vinyl terminated PDMS. On the other hand, the iron particles were treated with surfactants such as fatty acids, calcium and aluminum soaps, respectively, prior to vulcanization in order to increase the mobility of the iron particles in the elastomeric matrix. It was found, that both, the modification with the long-chain hydride terminated PDMS as well as the treatment with surfactants lead to an increase of the storage modulus G', the loss modulus G" and the loss factor tan δ in the magnetic field. It is concluded that both modifications, the coupling with long-chain hydride terminated PDMS as well as the treatment with surfactants, provide a greater mobility of the iron particles and hence a greater friction represented by the increase of the loss factor tan δ. Consequently it is assumed that untreated iron particles are less mobile in the rubber matrix due to covalent bonding with the silicone components, most likely due to the reaction of the hydroxyl groups on the metal surface with the silane groups of the cross-linking agent.

Poly(glycerol sebacate) - A Novel Biodegradable Elastomer for Tissue Engineering

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-04-01

Langer’ ’Department of Chemical Engineering and 2Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, U.S.A...for Tissue Engineering DISTRIBUTION: Approved for public release, distribution unlimited This paper is part of the following report: TITLE: Materials...Materials Research Society NI 1.1 Poly(glycerol sebacate) - A Novel Biodegradable Elastomer for Tissue Engineering Yadong Wang,’ Barbara J. Sheppard,2 Robert

Preparation of non-metals properties for data base

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

The development of non-metallic material properties data bases is discussed. The data bases consist of the non-metallic material classes of adhesives, adhesive/sealants, plastics, and elastomers. A specifications data base was also developed to incorporate material specifications data as a supplement to the Elastomers Data Base. Examples of the forms used are provided to show the properties of the materials which appear in the data base.

Aerospace Toxicology: An Overview

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-04-01

secondhand smoke to arcraft cabn ar polluton and flght attendants has been made relatve to the general populaton and was determned that vent...laton systems massvely faled to control secondhand smoke ar polluton n cabns (224). However, smokng s now prohbted by most arlnes and a...and elastomers. In: Harper CA, ed. Handbook of plastcs and elastomers. New York, NY: McGraw-Hll Book Company; 1975:1–81. 120. Fowler PR, McKenze

Influence of Microstructure on Micro-/Nano-Mechanical Measurements of Select Model Transparent Poly(urethane urea) Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-17

results. Furthermore, instrumented impact indentation is also utilized for elucidation of dynamic damping characteristics in these PUUs. REPORT... characteristics in these PUUs. Published by Elsevier Ltd. 1. Introduction Elastomers are versatile materials that are vital to a broad range of...industrial, medical, and military applications, particularly in the areas of coating, adhesives, foams , and composite structures [1]. More specifically, high

Mini-RPV Launch System Conceptual Study

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-12-01

are discussed later. Although shock cord has not found extensive use in aerospace in recent years, the technology of elastomers and braids has advanced...considerably beyond the off-the-shelf material (MIL-C-5651B) on which this study is based. Special elastomers , such as silicone rubber, and braid ...STUDIES .... .......... 36 7.1 Elastic, Concept 1-1 ... ............ 36 7.1.1 Introduction ...... ....... ... 36 7.1.2 Elastomeric (Shock Cord), Concept I

Development of a Lightweight, High Strength, Collapsible Hose

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-02-01

they will erupt through the elastomer as the hose exits the extrusion head and result in blistering of the cover and/or the lining. The jacket is...not successful. Extreme blistering of the elastomer occurred as the hose exited the extrusion head. The conclusion was drawn that moisture was not...HIGH STRENGTH, COLLAPSIBLE HOSE ABSTRACT This report documents an exploratory development effort to produce a 6-inch diameter, lightweight, high strength

Automated Setup Assembly Mechanisms for the Intelligent Machining Workstation

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-11-01

Autoimated analysis systems such as [36,37] use the Finite Elements Method ( FEM ) to evaluate or synthesize the structures of fixtures and workpiece...the angular orientation is not altered, and vice versa. This decoupling is accomplished by elastomers that are quite stiff in compression while being...Larger pins (#14), along with elastomers (#15), and the bolt and washer assembly (#6), provide compliance between top and bottom plate (#2), and by

Tough Self-Healing Elastomers by Molecular Enforced Integration of Covalent and Reversible Networks.

PubMed

Wu, Jinrong; Cai, Li-Heng; Weitz, David A

2017-10-01

Self-healing polymers crosslinked by solely reversible bonds are intrinsically weaker than common covalently crosslinked networks. Introducing covalent crosslinks into a reversible network would improve mechanical strength. It is challenging, however, to apply this concept to "dry" elastomers, largely because reversible crosslinks such as hydrogen bonds are often polar motifs, whereas covalent crosslinks are nonpolar motifs. These two types of bonds are intrinsically immiscible without cosolvents. Here, we design and fabricate a hybrid polymer network by crosslinking randomly branched polymers carrying motifs that can form both reversible hydrogen bonds and permanent covalent crosslinks. The randomly branched polymer links such two types of bonds and forces them to mix on the molecular level without cosolvents. This enables a hybrid "dry" elastomer that is very tough with fracture energy 13500 Jm -2 comparable to that of natural rubber. Moreover, the elastomer can self-heal at room temperature with a recovered tensile strength 4 MPa, which is 30% of its original value, yet comparable to the pristine strength of existing self-healing polymers. The concept of forcing covalent and reversible bonds to mix at molecular scale to create a homogenous network is quite general and should enable development of tough, self-healing polymers of practical usage. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Assessment of chemicals released in the marine environment by dielectric elastomers useful as active elements in wave energy harvesters.

PubMed

Zaltariov, Mirela-Fernanda; Bele, Adrian; Vasiliu, Lavinia; Gradinaru, Luiza; Vornicu, Nicoleta; Racles, Carmen; Cazacu, Maria

2018-01-05

A series of elastomers, either natural or synthetic (some of them commercial, while others prepared in the laboratory), suitable for use as active elements in devices for wave energy harvesting, were evaluated concerning their behavior and effects on the marine environment. In this aim, the elastomer films, initially evaluated regarding their aspect, structure, surface wettability, and tolerance of microorganisms growth, were immersed in synthetic seawater (SSW) within six months for assessing compounds released. There were analyzed the changes occurred both in the elastomers and salt water in which they were immersed. For this, water samples taken at set time intervals were analyzed by using a sequence of sensitive spectral techniques: UV-vis, IR, and in relevant cases 1 H NMR and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), able to detect and identify organic compounds, while after six months, they were also investigated from the point of view of aspect, presence of metal traces, pH, and biological activity. The changes in aspect, structure and morphology of the dielectric films at the end of the dipping period were also evaluated by visual inspection, IR spectroscopy by using spectral subtraction method, and SEM-EDX technique. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Energy scavenging strain absorber: application to kinetic dielectric elastomer generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jean-Mistral, C.; Beaune, M.; Vu-Cong, T.; Sylvestre, A.

2014-03-01

Dielectric elastomer generators (DEGs) are light, compliant, silent energy scavengers. They can easily be incorporated into clothing where they could scavenge energy from the human kinetic movements for biomedical applications. Nevertheless, scavengers based on dielectric elastomers are soft electrostatic generators requiring a high voltage source to polarize them and high external strain, which constitutes the two major disadvantages of these transducers. We propose here a complete structure made up of a strain absorber, a DEG and a simple electronic power circuit. This new structure looks like a patch, can be attached on human's wear and located on the chest, knee, elbow… Our original strain absorber, inspired from a sailing boat winch, is able to heighten the external available strain with a minimal factor of 2. The DEG is made of silicone Danfoss Polypower and it has a total area of 6cm per 2.5cm sustaining a maximal strain of 50% at 1Hz. A complete electromechanical analytical model was developed for the DEG associated to this strain absorber. With a poling voltage of 800V, a scavenged energy of 0.57mJ per cycle is achieved with our complete structure. The performance of the DEG can further be improved by enhancing the imposed strain, by designing a stack structure, by using a dielectric elastomer with high dielectric permittivity.

Elastin: a representative ideal protein elastomer.

PubMed Central

Urry, D W; Hugel, T; Seitz, M; Gaub, H E; Sheiba, L; Dea, J; Xu, J; Parker, T

2002-01-01

During the last half century, identification of an ideal (predominantly entropic) protein elastomer was generally thought to require that the ideal protein elastomer be a random chain network. Here, we report two new sets of data and review previous data. The first set of new data utilizes atomic force microscopy to report single-chain force-extension curves for (GVGVP)(251) and (GVGIP)(260), and provides evidence for single-chain ideal elasticity. The second class of new data provides a direct contrast between low-frequency sound absorption (0.1-10 kHz) exhibited by random-chain network elastomers and by elastin protein-based polymers. Earlier composition, dielectric relaxation (1-1000 MHz), thermoelasticity, molecular mechanics and dynamics calculations and thermodynamic and statistical mechanical analyses are presented, that combine with the new data to contrast with random-chain network rubbers and to detail the presence of regular non-random structural elements of the elastin-based systems that lose entropic elastomeric force upon thermal denaturation. The data and analyses affirm an earlier contrary argument that components of elastin, the elastic protein of the mammalian elastic fibre, and purified elastin fibre itself contain dynamic, non-random, regularly repeating structures that exhibit dominantly entropic elasticity by means of a damping of internal chain dynamics on extension. PMID:11911774

Synthesis of highly elastic biocompatible polyurethanes based on bio-based isosorbide and poly(tetramethylene glycol) and their properties.

PubMed

Kim, Hyo-Jin; Kang, Min-Sil; Knowles, Jonathan C; Gong, Myoung-Seon

2014-09-01

Bio-based high elastic polyurethanes were prepared from hexamethylene diisocyanate and various ratios of isosorbide to poly(tetramethylene glycol) as a diol by a simple one-shot bulk polymerization without a catalyst. Successful synthesis of the polyurethanes was confirmed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy and (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance. Thermal properties were determined by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The glass transition temperature was -47.8℃. The test results showed that the poly(tetramethylene glycol)/isosorbide-based elastomer exhibited not only excellent stress-strain properties but also superior resilience to the existing polyether-based polyurethane elastomers. The static and dynamic properties of the polyether/isosorbide-based thermoplastic elastomer were more suitable for dynamic applications. Moreover, such rigid diols impart biocompatible and bioactive properties to thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers. Degradation tests performed at 37℃ in phosphate buffer solution showed a mass loss of 4-9% after 8 weeks, except for the polyurethane with the lowest isosorbide content, which showed an initial rapid weight loss. These polyurethanes offer significant promise due to soft, flexible and biocompatible properties for soft tissue augmentation and regeneration. © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

Chemically defined, ultrasoft PDMS elastomers with selectable elasticity for mechanobiology

PubMed Central

Heinrichs, Viktor; Dieluweit, Sabine; Stellbrink, Jörg; Pyckhout-Hintzen, Wim; Hersch, Nils; Richter, Dieter

2018-01-01

Living animal cells are strongly influenced by the mechanical properties of their environment. To model physiological conditions ultrasoft cell culture substrates, in some instances with elasticity (Young's modulus) of only 1 kPa, are mandatory. Due to their long shelf life PDMS-based elastomers are a popular choice. However, uncertainty about additives in commercial formulations and difficulties to reach very soft materials limit their use. Here, we produced silicone elastomers from few, chemically defined and commercially available substances. Elastomers exhibited elasticities in the range from 1 kPa to 55 kPa. In detail, a high molecular weight (155 kg/mol), vinyl-terminated linear silicone was crosslinked with a multifunctional (f = 51) crosslinker (a copolymer of dimethyl siloxane and hydrosilane) by a platinum catalyst. The following different strategies towards ultrasoft materials were explored: sparse crosslinking, swelling with inert silicone polymers, and, finally, deliberate introduction of dangling ends into the network (inhibition). Rheological experiments with very low frequencies led to precise viscoelastic characterizations. All strategies enabled tuning of stiffness with the lowest stiffness of ~1 kPa reached by inhibition. This system was also most practical to use. Biocompatibility of materials was tested using primary cortical neurons from rats. Even after several days of cultivation no adverse effects were found. PMID:29624610

Rubber closures for freeze-dried products.

PubMed

Hopkins, G H

1976-10-01

Once a biological product has been developed to perform its required medical or pharmaceutical function, it is essential that a container-closure system by chosen which will preserve the efficacy of the product up to the point of administration. The general requirements applicable to proper closure function will be reviewed and the suitability of natural and synthetic elastomers to perform these functions will be discussed. The specialized application of elastomeric materials as closures for freeze-dried products presents additional requirements which are superimposed upon those previously discussed. The first of these unique considerations relates to the proper physical design which will permit the outgassing of water vapor during the sublimation step in the lyophilizing chamber. During this outgassing the design must also permit the closure to remain affixed in the neck while only partially inserted. Since these preparations are lyophilized because they are unstable in aqueous solutions, the elastomer used must constitute an effective barrier to the transmission of moisture vapor through the closure. The MVT and gas transmission properties of elastomers will be discussed. Special consideration will be given to the extremely low temperatures used in the sublimation, stoppering, and storage before use of lyophilized products. The phenomenon of glass transition points with different elastomers will be explained as its relation to satisfactory performance of the closure function at low temperatures.

High energy resolution, high angular acceptance crystal monochromator

DOEpatents

Alp, E.E.; Mooney, T.M.; Toellner, T.

1996-06-04

A 4-bounce dispersive crystal monochromator reduces the bandpass of synchrotron radiation to a 10-50 meV range without sacrificing angular acceptance. The monochromator includes the combination of an asymmetrical channel-cut single crystal of lower order reflection and a symmetrical channel-cut single crystal of higher order reflection in a nested geometric configuration. In the disclosed embodiment, a highly asymmetrically cut ({alpha}=20) outer silicon crystal (4 2 2) with low order reflection is combined with a symmetrically cut inner silicon crystal (10 6 4) with high order reflection to condition a hard x-ray component (5--30 keV) of synchrotron radiation down to the {micro}eV-neV level. Each of the crystals is coupled to the combination of a positioning inchworm and angle encoder via a respective rotation stage for accurate relative positioning of the crystals and precise energy tuning of the monochromator. 7 figs.

High energy resolution, high angular acceptance crystal monochromator

DOEpatents

Alp, Ercan E.; Mooney, Timothy M.; Toellner, Thomas

1996-06-04

A 4-bounce dispersive crystal monochromator reduces the bandpass of synchrotron radiation to a 10-50 meV range without sacrificing angular acceptance. The monochromator includes the combination of an asymmetrical channel-cut single crystal of lower order reflection and a symmetrical channel-cut single crystal of higher order reflection in a nested geometric configuration. In the disclosed embodiment, a highly asymmetrically cut (.alpha.=20) outer silicon crystal (4 2 2) with low order reflection is combined with a symmetrically cut inner silicon crystal (10 6 4) with high order reflection to condition a hard x-ray component (5-30 keV) of synchrotron radiation down to the .mu.eV-neV level. Each of the crystals is coupled to the combination of a positioning inchworm and angle encoder via a respective rotation stage for accurate relative positioning of the crystals and precise energy tuning of the monochromator.

Controllable degradation kinetics of POSS nanoparticle-integrated poly(ε-caprolactone urea)urethane elastomers for tissue engineering applications

PubMed Central

Yildirimer, Lara; Buanz, Asma; Gaisford, Simon; Malins, Edward L.; Remzi Becer, C.; Moiemen, Naiem; Reynolds, Gary M.; Seifalian, Alexander M.

2015-01-01

Biodegradable elastomers are a popular choice for tissue engineering scaffolds, particularly in mechanically challenging settings (e.g. the skin). As the optimal rate of scaffold degradation depends on the tissue type to be regenerated, next-generation scaffolds must demonstrate tuneable degradation patterns. Previous investigations mainly focussed on the integration of more or less hydrolysable components to modulate degradation rates. In this study, however, the objective was to develop and synthesize a family of novel biodegradable polyurethanes (PUs) based on a poly(ε-caprolactone urea)urethane backbone integrating polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS-PCLU) with varying amounts of hard segments (24%, 28% and 33% (w/v)) in order to investigate the influence of hard segment chemistry on the degradation rate and profile. PUs lacking POSS nanoparticles served to prove the important function of POSS in maintaining the mechanical structures of the PU scaffolds before, during and after degradation. Mechanical testing of degraded samples revealed hard segment-dependent modulation of the materials’ viscoelastic properties, which was attributable to (i) degradation-induced changes in the PU crystallinity and (ii) either the presence or absence of POSS. In conclusion, this study presents a facile method of controlling degradation profiles of PU scaffolds used in tissue engineering applications. PMID:26463421

Design of magnetic Circuit Simulation for Curing Device of Anisotropic MRE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hapipi, N.; Ubaidillah; Mazlan, S. A.; Widodo, P. J.

2018-03-01

The strength of magnetic field during fabrication of magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) plays a crucial role in order to form a pre-structured MRE. So far, gaussmeter were used to determine the magnetic intensity subjected to the MRE during curing. However, the magnetic flux reading through that measurement considered less accurate. Therefore, a simulation should be done to figure out the magnetic flux concentration around the sample. This paper investigates the simulation of magnetic field distribution in a curing device used during curing stage of anisotropic magnetorheological elastomer (MRE). The target in designing the magnetic circuit is to ensure a sufficient and uniform magnetic field to all the MRE surfaces during the curing process. The magnetic circuit design for the curing device was performed using Finite Element Method Magnetic (FEMM) to examine the magnetic flux density distribution in the device. The material selection was first done instantaneously during a magnetic simulation process. Then, the experimental validation of simulation was performed by measuring and comparing the actual flux generated within the specimen type and the one from the FEMM simulation. İt apparent that the data from FEMM simulation shows an agreement with the actual measurement. Furthermore, the FEMM results showed that the magnetic design is able to provide sufficient and uniform magnetic field all over the surfaces of the MRE.

Chemical Modification and Structure-property Relationships of Acrylic and Ionomeric Thermoplastic Elastomer Gels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vargantwar, Pruthesh Hariharrao

Block copolymers (BCs) have remained at the forefront of materials research due to their versatility in applications ranging from hot-melt/pressure-sensitive adhesives and impact modifiers to compatibilizing agents and vibration-dampening/nanotemplating media. Of particular interest are macromolecules composed of two or more chemically dissimilar blocks covalently linked together to form triblock or pentablock copolymers. If the blocks are sufficiently incompatible and the copolymer behaves as a thermoplastic elastomer, the molecules can spontaneously self-assemble to form nanostructured materials that exhibit shape memory due to the formation of a supramolecular network. The BCs of these types are termed as conventional. When BCs contain blocks having ionic moieties such as sulfonic acid groups, they are termed as block ionomers. Designing new systems based on either conventional or ionic BCs, characterizing their structure-property relationships and later using them as electroacive polymers form the essential objectives of this work. Electroactive polymers (EAPs) exhibit electromechanical actuation when stimulated by an external electric field. In the first part of this work, it is shown that BCs resolve some of the outstanding problems presently encountered in the design of two different classes of EAP actuators: dielectric elastomers (DEs) and ionic polymer metal composites (IPMCs). All-acrylic triblock copolymer gels used as DEs actuate with high efficacy without any requirement of mechanical prestrain and, thus, eliminate the need for bulky and heavy hardware essential with prestrained dielectric actuators, as well as material problems associated with stress relaxation. The dependence of actuation behavior on gel morphology as evaluated from mechanical and microstructure studies is observed. In the case of IPMCs, ionic BCs employed in this study greatly facilitate processing compared to other contenders such as NafionRTM, which is commonly used in this class of EAPs. The unique copolymer investigated here (i) retains its mechanical integrity when highly solvated by polar solvents, (ii) demonstrates a high degree of actuation when tested in a cantilever configuration, and (iii) avoids the shortcomings of back-relaxation/overshoot within the testing conditions when used in combination with an appropriate solvent. In the second part of this work, two chemical strategies to design midblock sulfonated block ionomers are explored. In one case, selective sulfonation of the midblocks in triblock copolymers is achieved via a dioxane:sulfur trioxide chemistry, while in the other acetyl sulfate is used for the same purpose. Excellent control on the degree of sulfonation (DOS) is achieved. The block ionomers swell in different solvents while retaining their mechanical integrity. They show disorder-order, order-order, and order-reduced order morphological transitions as DOS varies. These transitions in morphologies are reflected in their thermal behavior as well. The microstructures show periodicity, which is, again, a function of DOS. The transitions are explained in terms of the molar volume expansion and volume densification of the blocks on sulfonation. The ionic levels, morphology and periodicity in microstructure are important for applications such as actuators, sensors and fuel cell membranes. The ability to tune these aspects in the ionomers designed in this work make them potential candidates for these applications.

Charge Stabilized Crystalline Colloidal Arrays As Templates For Fabrication of Non-Close-Packed Inverted Photonic Crystals

PubMed Central

Bohn, Justin J.; Ben-Moshe, Matti; Tikhonov, Alexander; Qu, Dan; Lamont, Daniel N.

2010-01-01

We developed a straightforward method to form non close-packed highly ordered fcc direct and inverse opal silica photonic crystals. We utilize an electrostatically self assembled crystalline colloidal array (CCA) template formed by monodisperse, highly charged polystyrene particles. We then polymerize a hydrogel around the CCA (PCCA) and condense the silica to form a highly ordered silica impregnated (siPCCA) photonic crystal. Heating at 450 °C removes the organic polymer leaving a silica inverse opal structure. By altering the colloidal particle concentration we independently control the particle spacing and the wall thickness of the inverse opal photonic crystals. This allows us to control the optical dielectric constant modulation in order to optimize the diffraction; the dielectric constant modulation is controlled independently of the photonic crystal periodicity. These fcc photonic crystals are better ordered than typical close-packed photonic crystals because their self assembly utilizes soft electrostatic repulsive potentials. We show that colloidal particle size and charge polydispersity has modest impact on ordering, in contrast to that for close-packed crystals. PMID:20163800

Decal transfer lithography

DOEpatents

Nuzzo, Ralph G.; Childs, William R.; Motala, Michael J.; Lee, Keon Jae

2010-02-16

A method of making a microstructure includes selectively activating a portion of a surface of a silicon-containing elastomer, contacting the activated portion with a substance, and bonding the activated portion and the substance, such that the activated portion of the surface and the substance in contact with the activated portion are irreversibly attached. The selective activation may be accomplished by positioning a mask on the surface of the silicon-containing elastomer, and irradiating the exposed portion with UV radiation.

The Effect of Switch-Loading Fuels on Fuel-Wetted Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-10

material and age of the material”. In summing up past experience, the bulletin stated that “the common denominator is expected to be nitrile rubber ...The expert also noted that “most, if not all manufacturers, responded by eliminating nitrile rubber seals and replacing them with fluorocarbon...materials identified as from the Acrylonitrile- 4 Viton is a name trademarked by DuPont Performance Elastomers L.L.C. Butadiene family (nitrile, NBR

Characterization of Engine Mount Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-02-01

blend of carbon black filled nitrile rubber ( NBR ), polyvinylchloride (PVC), and diisooctyl phthalate (DIOP) that was formulated at PSL (as AMRL 2046...a suitable replacement for natural rubber and neoprene rubber in engine mounts where exposure to hydrocarbon fluids is a concern. The data for NBR ...range 3-7 MPa. The loss factors of the elastomers at 1 Hz, 20oC varied considerably, from 0.02 for natural rubber to 0.27 for ethylene acrylic

Fluorogel elastomers with tunable transparency, elasticity, shape-memory, and antifouling properties

DOE PAGES

Yao, Xi; Dunn, Stuart S.; Kim, Philseok; ...

2014-03-18

In this study, omniphobic fluorogel elastomers were prepared by photocuring perfluorinated acrylates and a perfluoropolyether crosslinker. By tuning either the chemical composition or the temperature that control the crystallinity of the resulting polymer chains, a broad range of optical and mechanical properties of the fluorogel can be achieved. After infusing with fluorinated lubricants, the fluorogels showed excellent resistance to wetting by various liquids and anti-biofouling behavior, while maintaining cytocompatiblity.

Stretchable, High-k Dielectric Elastomers through Liquid-Metal Inclusions.

PubMed

Bartlett, Michael D; Fassler, Andrew; Kazem, Navid; Markvicka, Eric J; Mandal, Pratiti; Majidi, Carmel

2016-05-01

An all-soft-matter composite with exceptional electro-elasto properties is demonstrated by embedding liquid-metal inclusions in an elastomer matrix. This material exhibits a unique combination of high dielectric constant, low stiffness, and large strain limit (ca. 600% strain). The elasticity, electrostatics, and electromechanical coupling of the composite are investigated, and strong agreement with predictions from effective medium theory is found. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Fireproof Hydraulic Brake System.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-10-01

MLBT elastomer personnel recommended the use of Firestone’s Phosphonitrilic Fluoroelastomer (PNF) for elastomeric O-rings in the CTFE fluid system. C.E...resealed with modified "PNF" (phosphonitrilic fluoroelastomer) elastomer Ŕ" rings. The hoses are PTFE lined for compatibility with the CTFE...Plus 65-42808-6 Nylon Braid )* AN837-8 Elbow (on Truck) 61-11536-1 Tube Assy (Strut/Truck Hose to Truck Tee)* 290 -7. 61-11530-1 Tube Assy (Truck Tee

An evaluation of fluorescent elastomer for marking bluegills in experimental studies

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dewey, Michael R.; Zigler, Steven J.

1996-01-01

We evaluated subdermal injection of a fluorescent elastomer for marking bluegills Lepomis macrochirus in laboratory and pond studies. Marking did not affect the growth or survival of adult or juvenile bluegills. Marks were visible for at least 6 months. This technique is a reliable, relatively inexpensive marking method for the identification of individual fish in experimental studies. Costs of application range from US$0.01 to $0.03 per mark.

High-temperature Y267 epdm elastomer - field and laboratory experiences, August 1981

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hirasuna, A.R.; Friese, G.J.; Stephens, G.A.

1982-01-01

During the period 1976 to 1979 L'Garde, Inc. developed geothermal elastomer compounds under a U.S. Department of Energy - Division of Geothermal Energy (DOE-DGE) contract. The resulting developments yielded compounds from 4 polymer systems which successfully exceeded the contract requirements. Since completion of the compound development, significant laboratory and down-hole experience occurred, primarily on the Y267 EPDM compound. This work summarizes those experiences. 11 references.

Oxide Semiconductor-Based Flexible Organic/Inorganic Hybrid Thin-Film Transistors Fabricated on Polydimethylsiloxane Elastomer.

PubMed

Jung, Soon-Won; Choi, Jeong-Seon; Park, Jung Ho; Koo, Jae Bon; Park, Chan Woo; Na, Bock Soon; Oh, Ji-Young; Lim, Sang Chul; Lee, Sang Seok; Chu, Hye Yong

2016-03-01

We demonstrate flexible organic/inorganic hybrid thin-film transistors (TFTs) on a polydimethysilox- ane (PDMS) elastomer substrate. The active channel and gate insulator of the hybrid TFT are composed of In-Ga-Zn-O (IGZO) and blends of poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF- TrFE)] with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), respectively. It has been confirmed that the fabri- cated TFT display excellent characteristics: the recorded field-effect mobility, sub-threshold voltage swing, and I(on)/I(off) ratio were approximately 0.35 cm2 V(-1) s(-1), 1.5 V/decade, and 10(4), respectively. These characteristics did not experience any degradation at a bending radius of 15 mm. These results correspond to the first demonstration of a hybrid-type TFT using an organic gate insulator/oxide semiconducting active channel structure fabricated on PDMS elastomer, and demonstrate the feasibility of a promising device in a flexible electronic system.

Modeling of particle interactions in magnetorheological elastomers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Biller, A. M., E-mail: kam@icmm.ru; Stolbov, O. V., E-mail: oleg100@gmail.com; Raikher, Yu. L., E-mail: raikher@icmm.ru

2014-09-21

The interaction between two particles made of an isotropic linearly polarizable magnetic material and embedded in an elastomer matrix is studied. In this case, when an external field is imposed, the magnetic attraction of the particles, contrary to point dipoles, is almost wraparound. The exact solution of the magnetic problem in the linear polarization case, although existing, is not practical; to circumvent its use, an interpolation formula is proposed. One more interpolation expression is developed for the resistance of the elastic matrix to the field-induced particle displacements. Minimization of the total energy of the pair reveals its configurational bistability inmore » a certain field range. One of the possible equilibrium states corresponds to the particles dwelling at a distance, the other—to their collapse in a tight dimer. This mesoscopic bistability causes magnetomechanical hysteresis which has important implications for the macroscopic behavior of magnetorheological elastomers.« less

Mechanical and Morphological Effect of Plant Based Antimicrobial Solutions on Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomer.

PubMed

Tetteh, Sophia; Bibb, Richard J; Martin, Simon J

2018-05-30

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of plant based antimicrobial solutions specifically tea tree and Manuka oil on facial silicone elastomers. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of disinfection with plant extract solution on mechanical properties and morphology on the silicone elastomer. Test specimens were subjected to disinfection using tea tree oil, Manuka oil and the staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria. Furthermore, a procedure duration was used in the disinfection process to simulate up to one year of usage. Over 500 test specimens were fabricated for all tests performed namely hardness, elongation, tensile, tear strength tests, visual inspection and lastly surface characterization using SEM. A repeated measures ANOVA revealed that hardness and elongation at break varied significantly over the time period, whereas this was not observed in the tear and tensile strength parameters of the test samples.

Dielectric elastomer membranes undergoing inhomogeneous deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Tianhu; Zhao, Xuanhe; Suo, Zhigang

2009-10-01

Dielectric elastomers are capable of large deformation subject to an electric voltage and are promising for use as actuators, sensors, and generators. Because of large deformation, nonlinear equations of states, and diverse modes of failure, modeling the process of electromechanical transduction has been challenging. This paper studies a membrane of a dielectric elastomer deformed into an out-of-plane axisymmetric shape, a configuration used in a family of commercial devices known as the universal muscle actuators. The kinematics of deformation and charging, together with thermodynamics, leads to equations that govern the state of equilibrium. Numerical results indicate that the field in the membrane can be very inhomogeneous, and that the membrane is susceptible to several modes of failure, including electrical breakdown, loss of tension, and rupture by stretch. Care is needed in the design to balance the requirements of averting various modes of failure while using the material efficiently.

Spray sealing: A breakthrough in integral fuel tank sealing technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richardson, Martin D.; Zadarnowski, J. H.

1989-11-01

In a continuing effort to increase readiness, a new approach to sealing integral fuel tanks is being developed. The technique seals potential leak sources by spraying elastomeric materials inside the tank cavity. Laboratory evaluations project an increase in aircraft supportability and reliability, an improved maintainability, decreasing acquisition and life cycle costs. Increased usable fuel volume and lower weight than conventional bladders improve performance. Concept feasibility was demonstrated on sub-scale aircraft fuel tanks. Materials were selected by testing sprayable elastomers in a fuel tank environment. Chemical stability, mechanical properties, and dynamic durability of the elastomer are being evaluated at the laboratory level and in sub-scale and full scale aircraft component fatigue tests. The self sealing capability of sprayable materials is also under development. Ballistic tests show an improved aircraft survivability, due in part to the elastomer's mechanical properties and its ability to damp vibrations. New application equipment, system removal, and repair methods are being investigated.

Electromechanical instability in soft materials: Theory, experiments and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suo, Zhigang

2013-03-01

Subject to a voltage, a membrane of a dielectric elastomer reduces thickness and expands area, possibly straining over 100%. The phenomenon is being developed as transducers for broad applications, including soft robots, adaptive optics, Braille displays, and electric generators. The behavior of dielectric elastomers is closely tied to electromechanical instability. This instability may limit the performance of devices, and may also be used to achieve giant actuation strains. This talk reviews the theory of dielectric elastomers, coupling large deformation and electric potential. The theory is developed within the framework of continuum mechanics and thermodynamics. The theory attempts to answer commonly asked questions. How do mechanics and electrostatics work together to generate large deformation? How efficiently can a material convert energy from one form to another? How do molecular processes affect macroscopic behavior? The theory is used to describe electromechanical instability, and is related to recent experiments.

Shape-memory effect of nanocomposites based on liquid-crystalline elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marotta, A.; Lama, G. C.; Gentile, G.; Cerruti, P.; Carfagna, C.; Ambrogi, V.

2016-05-01

In this work, nanocomposites based on liquid crystalline (LC) elastomers were prepared and characterized in their shape memory properties. For the synthesis of materials, p-bis(2,3-epoxypropoxy)-α-methylstilbene (DOMS) was used as mesogenic epoxy monomer, sebacic acid (SA) as curing agent and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and graphene oxide (GO) as fillers. First, an effective compatibilization methodology was set up to improve the interfacial adhesion between the matrix and the carbonaceous nanofillers, thus obtaining homogeneous distribution and dispersion of the nanofillers within the polymer phase. Then, the obtained nanocomposite films were characterized in their morphological and thermal properties. In particular, the effect of the addition of the nanofillers on liquid crystalline behavior, as well as on shape-memory properties of the realized materials was investigated. It was found that both fillers were able to enhance the thermomechanical response of the LC elastomers, making them good candidates as shape memory materials.

Mimicking biological stress-strain behaviour with synthetic elastomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vatankhah-Varnosfaderani, Mohammad; Daniel, William F. M.; Everhart, Matthew H.; Pandya, Ashish A.; Liang, Heyi; Matyjaszewski, Krzysztof; Dobrynin, Andrey V.; Sheiko, Sergei S.

2017-09-01

Despite the versatility of synthetic chemistry, certain combinations of mechanical softness, strength, and toughness can be difficult to achieve in a single material. These combinations are, however, commonplace in biological tissues, and are therefore needed for applications such as medical implants, tissue engineering, soft robotics, and wearable electronics. Present materials synthesis strategies are predominantly Edisonian, involving the empirical mixing of assorted monomers, crosslinking schemes, and occluded swelling agents, but this approach yields limited property control. Here we present a general strategy for mimicking the mechanical behaviour of biological materials by precisely encoding their stress-strain curves in solvent-free brush- and comb-like polymer networks (elastomers). The code consists of three independent architectural parameters—network strand length, side-chain length and grafting density. Using prototypical poly(dimethylsiloxane) elastomers, we illustrate how this parametric triplet enables the replication of the strain-stiffening characteristics of jellyfish, lung, and arterial tissues.