On the Modeling of Electromechanical Coupling in Electroactive Polymers Using the Mixed Finite Element Formulation

Due to the large strain capability, electroactive polymers (EAPs) are promising materials for several engineering applications, for example: they can be used as actuators, and sensors in cameras, pumps, valves, etc. Generally speaking, the mode of action in EAPs is based on Coulomb forces generated by electric fields that cause the polymer membrane to contract in the thickness direction. In the present paper, a mixed finite element formulation was developed for modeling the electromechanical coupling and for simulations concerning electroactive polymers.