Dielectric composite with reinforced elastomer and integrated electrode

US11787163B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• W.L. Gore & Associates GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Andrea Doernhoefer · Wahrstorf, DE
• Michael Rittmann · Ditzingen, DE
• Klaus Seibert · Emmendingen, DE
• Alexander Zaggl · Feldkirchen-Westerham, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 22, 2022
• Grant date: Oct 17, 2023
• Expiry date: Nov 22, 2042

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B32B2605/00
• WIPO field: Surface technology, coating
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to dielectric elastomeric composites that include a retainable processing membrane, an elastomer material, and an electrically conductive material. The elastomer layer may be partially imbibed into the retainable processing membrane. The retainable processing membrane may be porous. The retainable processing membrane is compacted in the transverse direction, machine direction, or in both directions prior to the application of an elastomer material and an electrically conductive material. The compaction of the retainable processing membrane may form structured folds or folded fibrils in the membrane, giving the retainable processing membrane a low modulus and flexibility. In some embodiments, the dielectric composites are positioned in a stacked configuration. Alternatively, the dielectric elastomeric composites may have a wound configuration. The dielectric composites have a total thickness less than about 170 μm. The dielectric elastomeric composites may be used, for example, in dielectric elastomer actuators, sensors, and in energy harvesting.