Mechanical constraints enhance electrical energy densities of soft dielectrics

Abstract

In this thesis, a new method---mechanical constraint to increase the energy density of soft dielectrics is described. Electromechanical breakdown is one of the main factors limiting the energy density and it is induced by instabilities. Pull-in instability has been widely investigated and a theoretical model has been developed. A new type of instability—creasing to cratering instability is observed in soft dielectrics. A theoretical model is developed and shows perfect consistent with the experimental results. Further research has been done on creasing to cratering instabilities in deformed soft dielectrics. By suppressing these two kinds of instabilities, the electrical energy density could be enhanced nearly 9 times.