Shape optimization of material inclusions in dielectric elastomer composites

In recent years, dielectric elastomers became a new alternative in the field of actuation technology. Because of the softness of these materials, they can be deformed in a finite strain regime under the application of electric fields. Due to the low relative permittivity, the electromechanical coupling is weak which makes large electric fields in the range of 20–30 MV/m necessary for large actuation purposes. To overcome this handicap, composite materials consisting of an elastomer matrix with ceramic inclusion have been proposed in the last years. The present work aims at an analysis of the compressive deformation of the composite by a numerical comparison of three inclusion geometries. The results show optimization possibilities regarding the shape of the inclusion which allow for larger dielectric elastomer deformations at lower applied electric fields.