Nonhomogeneous large-deformation theory of ionic polymeric gels in electric and pH fields

Based on recent experimental observations on the behavior of ionic polymeric gels in the presence of pH and electric fields performed in our laboratories, a dual macroscopic theory is proposed for the nonhomogeneous large deformations of such gels. The proposed theory presents two distinct mechanisms for the nonhomogeneous reversible large deformations and in particular bending of strips of ionic polymeric gels in the presence of both a pH field and an electric field. It is concluded that direct voltage control of such nonhomogeneous large deformations in ionic polymeric gels is possible. These electrically controlled deformations may find unique applications in robotics, artificial muscles, large motion actuator designs, drug delivery systems and smart materials, adaptive structures and systems.