Experimental characterization of a Circular Diaphragm Dielectric Elastomer Generators

Inflated Circular Diaphragm Dielectric Elastomer Generators (CD-DEGs) are a special embodiment of polymeric transducer that can be used to convert pneumatic energy into high-voltage direct-current electricity. Potential application of CD-DEGs is as power take-off system for wave energy converters that are based on the oscillating water column principle. Optimal usage of CD-DEGs requires the adequate knowledge of their dynamic electro-mechanical response. This paper presents a test-rig for the experimental study of the dynamic response of CD-DEGs under different programmable electro-mechanical loading conditions. Experimental results acquired on the test-rig are also presented, which highlight the dynamic performances of CD-DEGs that are based on acrylic elastomer membranes and carbon conductive grease electrodes.