Multi-fields responsive ionic polymer–metal composite

The multi-fields responsive ionic polymer–metal composites, which have wide applications such as actuators, sensors, and dampers, are synthesized through a standard ion-exchange method using Ni particles doped on a Nafion™ film. SEM, EDS, and XRD were utilized to reveal their crystal shape and type. Dynamic mechanical analysis, vibrating sample magnetometry, and cyclic voltammetry were used to investigate the mechanical, magnetic, and electrical properties of the Ni-doped ionic polymer–metal composites. The nano-sized Ni particles (ca. 300 nm) were successfully synthesized on the Nafion™ film with a 2.5 μm layer. The Ni-doped ionic polymer–metal composites demonstrated good magnetic, electrical, and electro-mechanical responses.