Additive manufacturing techniques for soft electroactive polymer hydrogels using a customized 3D printer

Austen Thien, Kishore Pochiraju

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Electroactive polymers (EAP) have shown promise in producing significant and controllable linear displacement in slim and lightweight packages. EAPs allow for seamless integration and multi-functionality since they are actuated by a driving voltage that could be controlled by a microprocessor. Polyacrylamide (PAAM)/Polyacrylic acid (PAA) hydrogel EAPs are commonly chosen due to their low driving voltage, significant amount of displacement, and rapid manufacturing capabilities, as these gels can be 3D printed. To effectively extrude these gels in 3D printers, their viscosity, gelation time, shear thinning, and self-wettability must be characterized. In this research, ungelled solutions of PAAM are prepared and then strain-tested at temperatures from 60C to 80C and with 1-2 drops of TEMED catalyst to determine the gelation time that is optimal for 3D printing. Strain testing of ungelled PAAM solutions is also used to determine the shear thinning properties of the gel. All strain testing is conducted using a rheometer with 25 mm diameter plates and an oven enclosure. A prototype extrusion system is designed and fabricated to be used for selfwettability testing of the gel. The process data will then be used in the design of a modified 3D printer to manufacture and test different configurations of these hydrogel actuators.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAdvanced Manufacturing
ISBN (Electronic)9780791858356
DOIs
StatePublished - 2017
EventASME 2017 International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, IMECE 2017 - Tampa, United States
Duration: 3 Nov 20179 Nov 2017

Publication series

NameASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, Proceedings (IMECE)
Volume2

Conference

ConferenceASME 2017 International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, IMECE 2017
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityTampa
Period3/11/179/11/17

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