Ionic polymer transducers in sensing: Implications of the streaming potential hypothesis for varied electrode architecture and loading rate

Abstract

Explored is the mechanism of streaming potential in the sensing response of ionic polymer transducers, sometimes referred to as ionic polymer metal composites. It is argued that, unlike previous hypotheses, the streaming potential hypothesis is insensitive to the assumed ionomer morphology, and accommodates experimental observation of sensing under shear loading. As demonstration a simplified model for sensing under bending deformation is presented for a material system displaying a cylindrical channel morphology. Specific demonstration scenarios considered include predicting the evolution of sensing with electrode particulate volume fraction and type. In addition, evolution of sensing for both step and oscillatory loading is considered.