The linear stretching actuation behavior of polypyrrole nanorod in AAO template

A new type of polypyrrole (PPy) nanorod actuator was fabricated by electrochemical polymerization of pyrrole in the pores of anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) template. The electrochemical characteristics and the actuation behavior of PPy nanorod actuator were characterized by cyclic voltammetry and SEM, respectively. During the redox process of nanorod PPy actuator, the linear stretching actuation in the longitudinal dimension has been successfully demonstrated. It was also observed that the linear displacement increased with increasing anion-size of the salts in the liquid electrolytes.