Soft Actuator Using Ionic Polymer–Metal Composite Composed of Gold Electrodes Deposited Using Vacuum Evaporation

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We have developed a soft actuator using an ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) composed of gold electrodes deposited using vacuum evaporation. In comparison with the conventional plating deposition, the vacuum evaporation both is a simple fabrication process and is environmentally friendly. We observe how the gold electrodes adhere to the ionic polymer using a cross-sectional scanning electron microscope and confirm the working as a soft actuator by applying voltage. Although the displacement characteristic is not comparable to that of the conventional IPMC, this work is worthwhile because many researchers become able to easily enter into the research field of soft actuators.