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Towards a physics-based multiscale modelling of the electro-mechanical coupling in electro-active polymers
Noy Cohen1, Andreas Menzel2, Gal deBotton3
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Mechanics, TU Dortmund, 44227 Dortmund, Germany.
Proceedings. Mathematical, Physical, and Engineering Sciences
|April 28, 2016
Summary
This study compares three electromechanical models for electro-active polymers (EAPs). Microstructurally motivated models offer a more detailed understanding of EAP behavior under deformation than phenomenological models.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Electromechanical Engineering
Background:
- Electro-active polymers (EAPs) are increasingly used in industrial applications.
- Accurate electromechanical models are crucial for predicting EAP behavior.
- Existing models vary in their approach, from phenomenological to microstructurally based.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the predicted behavior of EAPs under homogeneous deformation using three distinct electromechanical models.
- To evaluate microstructurally motivated models against a widely used phenomenological model for the first time.
- To investigate the relationship between EAP microscopic structure and macroscopic response.
Main Methods:
- A phenomenological continuum-based model (Gent model with linear polarization).
- A physically based model considering polymer chain network structure.
- A microstructurally motivated model with neo-Hookean mechanics and a long-chains electrical model.
- The micro-sphere technique for integrating microscopic to macroscopic behavior.
- Analysis under four types of homogeneous boundary conditions.
Main Results:
- Comparison of EAP behavior predicted by the three models under various boundary conditions.
- First-time comparison of microstructurally motivated models with a phenomenological model.
- Observed dependence of polarization field intensity on deformation.
Conclusions:
- Microstructurally motivated models provide deeper insights into EAP behavior.
- The relationship between microscopic structure and macroscopic response requires further investigation.
- Accurate modeling is essential for advancing EAP industrial applications.
