Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

As a family of smart materials, dielectric elastomers (DEs) have received growing interest in soft material-based transduction technologies due to their unique properties, particularly large deformation capability. Better exploitation of these novel materials requires increased understanding on the fundamentals governing their delicate multi-physics coupling mechanisms. This research aims at the applications of DEs as oscillators, generators and waveguides. However, dynamic analysis on finitely deformed DEs is very limited, particularly when involving their intrinsic viscoelasticity. Therefore, the objective of the proposed research is to develop rigorous modeling and simulation approaches for characterizing the electromechanical dynamics of DE-based structures through a thorough understanding of the complex interplay among electromechanical coupling, material viscoelasticity, instability, geometric nonlinearity, and various failure modes of DEs. The grand vision of this research is to develop multi-functional DE-based devices and DE-based metastructures with desirable properties that could be actively and intentionally controlled by electrical stimuli. This long-term goal will be realized through fundamental studies in two themes: (i) performance analysis and prototype development of DE-based oscillators/resonators and generators; and (ii) investigation on wave propagation in DEs for tunable waveguide applications. Whereas the theories of finite electroelasticity have been well developed, the research subject coupling electromechanical dynamics and nonlinear viscoelasticity is still in its infancy. An important aspect of this program is its aim to close such a knowledge gap. The proposed theoretical and numerical approaches are expected to provide a rigorous platform for accurately characterizing the dynamic performance of viscoelastic DE structures, leading to better and controlled designs for these smart materials in the dynamics applications. This innovative research program will take full advantage of the applicant's expertise in multi-physics modeling, continuum mechanics, and composites, as well as dynamic analysis of structures. The training through this program will equip the HQP with extensive experiences and skills in the areas of smart materials and transduction technologies, including modeling development and numerical simulation in characterizing material properties, as well as design methodology of new advanced materials. We are very optimistic that the outcomes from this program will nurture great opportunities to establish industrial collaborations and provide new job opportunities. The successful completion of this program will greatly benefit the advanced materials and transduction technology sectors of Canada. In addition, this frontier work will also enhance Canada's profile in the global academic community.