Ionic Polymer Transducers (IPTs) have both actuation and sensing capabilities. However, the electromechanical
response of an IPT as a sensor is quite different from the response as an actuator. IPT sensors are not limited to
bending, i.e., they also produce current for compressive, extensional, and shear deformations. A robust physical
model must be able to predict the existence of a sensing signal in all modes of deformation. Such a model could
subsequently be adapted to form a roadmap toward enhancing sensitivity. In this study, the objective is to
experimentally define IPT sensing characteristics in shear deformation (non-bending) and compare the empirical
results with predictions derived from a model based on the streaming potential hypothesis. An in-house
displacement control rig is employed to establish empirical results in shear sensing. A finite element approach is
employed in the companion model development. The IPTs considered employ Nafion as the ionic polymer layer,
while the electrode includes high surface area ruthenium oxide, RuO2, metallic powder and deposited per the Direct
Assembly Process.
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