Chemically-Powered Polymer Artificial Muscles

About the Research

Chemically powered actuation of polymer artificial muscles (PAMs) involves the mixing of solvent, which may include ions, into a polymer sample on a molecular level. This actuation is influenced by the polymer-solvent combination and crosslink density, which can be controlled through chemical modification. The goal of this project is to develop a software model that predicts the swelling characteristics of PAMs, including solvent uptake, polymer oxidation states, moving ions, electric fields, and stress. The model will be verified through various measurements of the polymers in different forms such as bulk, membranes, fibers, fiber mats, and PAMs. Close collaboration with ARL's PAM work is essential.

About SEDD

The Sensors and Electron Devices Directorate (SEDD) is responsible for advancing the technology base in the electromagnetic spectrum, including radio frequency, microwave, millimeter-wave, infrared (IR), visible, and audio regions. SEDD conducts research in areas such as laser sources, RF sources, IR sensors, signature detection and decoding, target imaging and interpretation, sensor fusion, electromagnetic protection, and electron devices and materials. It also explores multidisciplinary fields like physics, electrical engineering, computer science, solid-state physics, chemical engineering, material sciences, and electrochemistry.

About ARL-RAP

The Army Research Laboratory Research Associateship Program (ARL-RAP) aims to engage creative and highly trained scientists and engineers from academia and industry in scientific and technical areas relevant to the Army. Researchers at ARL help shape and execute programs to meet future operational needs by conducting research in fields such as applied mathematics, atmospheric characterization, simulation and human modeling, digital/optical signal processing, nanotechnology, material science and technology, multifunctional technology, combustion processes, propulsion and flight physics, communication and networking, and computational and information sciences. A complete application for the ARL-RAP includes:

• Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• Three Reference Forms (email with a link to the reference form will be available in Zintellect)
• Transcripts (must verify receipt of degree)

If selected by an advisor, the participant will be required to write a research proposal for a specific opportunity at ARL, detailing the research topic, objectives, direction, expected period, and background. The proposal should be uploaded once the advisor makes their selection.

Contact Information

For questions about this opportunity, please email: ARLFellowship@orau.org

Additional Resources

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