Electrochemical characterization and control triple-layer muscles

The electrochemical characterization of triple-layers formed by a EPA (Electroactive Polymer) / double-sided tape/ EPA. like artificial muscles is described. Those muscles were characterized working under constant potential or under constant current. Due to the electrochemical nature of the electrochemomechanical property, muscles working under constant current produce constant movements, consuming increasing energies at decreasing temperatures, decreasing concentrations of electrolytes or trailing increasing masses. Muscles working at constant potential respond with a faster movement if the temperature or the concentration of the electrolyte increase, or if the trailied weight decreases. Specific charges and specific energies were determined for every experimental condition.