Exploring fabrication strategies and innovative applications of ionic polymer metal composites: state-of-the-art review

Various studies have been conducted to investigate the development of sustainable materials that possess the ability to respond to specific stimuli while preserving their original form. Electric energy is the most appealing way to stimulate Ionic Polymer Metal Composites (IPMC), allowing them to act as actuators and sensors. IPMCs are excellent alternatives despite challenging manufacturing conditions due to their good strain rates, quick responsive nature, high reliability, and mechanical compatibility. IPMC materials are highly sought after for their bio-inspired features. Researchers are developing IPMC materials that can act as thrusters, which entails establishing scientific and engineering groundwork and grasping operational principles. Nonetheless, a substantial understanding of the factors affecting their competence and persistence has been achieved through these efforts. Moreover, there is progress in developing effective processing techniques to fabricate IPMC. In this paper, IPMC mechanisms and respective fabrication techniques are reviewed in brief. Similarly, applications of the IPMCs in various fields are also discussed.