The focus of my PhD thesis has been the study of artificial muscles, specifically those made from carbon nanotubes, conducting polymers and dielectric elastomers. The aim is to create low-cost actuator technologies that exhibit stresses, strains, power densities and efficiencies similar to natural muscle. Many medical applications exist for technologies that are able to replace or assist skeletal or cardiac muscles. The capabilities of micro- and nano-scale mechanical devices are currently restricted by the relative weakness of electrostatic actuators, the small strains of piezoelectric materials, and the high voltage requirements of both. Actuators with muscle-like properties will greatly enhance micro-device performance and enable new nanoscale applications. Muscle-like actuators will substantially reduce the size, weight and cost of such devices. Ultimately, high performance artificial muscles may provide an inexpensive, efficient and environmentally-friendly replacement for electric motors and combustion engines.
