Development of dielectric elastomer materials capable of converting mechanical energy to electrical energy

Due to lightweight, good processability and low cost, elastomer materials have been widely utilized in our life. In this paper, we explained the operating principle of energy harvesting of dielectric elastomer generator (DEG), and highlighted their advantages over traditional power generators based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. Acrylates, silicone rubber, polyurethane and nature rubber, which were widely investigated as materials for dielectric elastomer generator, were mainly introduced. The effects of their dielectric constant, dielectric breakdown strength, elongation at break of dielectric elastomer on generating capacity and conversion efficiency were discussed. The advantages and disadvantages of the dielectric elastomer materials were also analyzed systemically. Moreover, the promising research direction of materials for dielectric elastomer generators was suggested.