Electroactive Fluorinated Terpolymer Actuator Composition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electroactive fluorinated terpolymer compositions used in actuators have a poor ecotoxicological profile and a tendency to release toxic phthalate plasticizers, which can compromise mechanical properties and electrode deposition, leading to reduced performance.

Innovation Solution

A composition combining an electroactive fluorinated terpolymer with a compatible polyester having a lower glass transition temperature, forming a homogeneous phase that enhances electromechanical properties without the risks associated with phthalate plasticizers, including improved deformation under electric fields and extended temperature range performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If phthalate plasticizer is used to improve electromechanical properties and deformation under electric fields, then the polymer becomes more flexible and responsive, but the ecotoxicological profile deteriorates and compound release occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeformation under electric fieldsVSAvoidecotoxicological profile
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the harmful phthalate plasticizer from the polymer composition while maintaining the desired flexibility and electromechanical properties through alternative means - specifically by using a blend of fluorinated copolymers with different glass transition temperatures, eliminating the need for toxic additives

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a secondary fluorinated copolymer as an intermediary component that mediates between the electroactive terpolymer and the desired mechanical properties. This copolymer acts as a natural plasticizing agent through polymer blending, avoiding the need for external chemical plasticizers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If phthalate plasticizer is added to enhance electromechanical response, then the polymer exhibits improved flexibility, but mechanical properties deteriorate due to compound release

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidmechanical properties
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a composite polymer system by blending electroactive fluorinated terpolymer with secondary fluorinated copolymers. This composite approach achieves the desired flexibility and mechanical strength through synergistic interaction between components, avoiding the mechanical property degradation caused by phthalate release

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Ease of operation

If phthalate plasticizer is used to improve electromechanical properties, then deformation response increases, but electrode deposition becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeformation responseVSAvoidelectrode deposition
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates the phthalate plasticizer that interferes with electrode deposition, thereby restoring the ability to easily deposit electrodes while maintaining improved deformation response through the polymer blend composition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The combination of the electroactive fluorinated terpolymer with a compatible polyester improves electromechanical properties and eco-toxicological profile, preventing compound release and maintaining mechanical properties, making it suitable for actuator manufacturing with enhanced safety and performance.

Implementation Method 1

Electroactive fluorinated terpolymers, typically used as films, coatings, or stacks combined with electrodes, possess remarkable electromechanical properties. They have a high electromechanical energy density. Therefore, when devices containing such terpolymers are subjected to an electric field, they deform, enabling the creation of actuators.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroactive polymer deformation: Electroactive Polymer

Implementation Method 2

at least one second polymer, being a polyester, compatible with the electroactive fluorinated terpolymer, and having a glass transition temperature lower than that of the electroactive fluorinated terpolymer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGlass transition: Phase Change

Data Source

PatentEP3245261B1Composition comprising an electroactive terpolymer
Publication Date: 2022.08.31 ARKEMA FRANCE SA

AI summary

The invention relates to a composition comprising at least one electroactive fluorinated terpolymer, and at least one second polymer compatible with the electroactive fluorinated terpolymer and having a glass transition temperature lower than that of the electroactive fluorinated terpolymer. The invention also relates to a method for producing said composition, and to a device such as an actuator comprising a substrate and a film of the above-mentioned composition.