High-voltage switches based on flexible dielectric elastomers

Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are a class of smart materials characterized by their softness, stretchability, and energy efficiency. These materials are composed of a dielectric membrane sandwiched between two conductive electrodes. When a high voltage is applied across the electrodes, the electrostatic forces induce a mechanical deformation in the elastomer, enabling its use as an actuator. DEAs have attracted significant attention for high-voltage switching applications due to their ability to operate at large deformations while maintaining electrical insulation. This makes them highly suitable for designing innovative high-voltage Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors (MOSFETs). The development of high-voltage MOSFETs is crucial for various power electronics applications, as they allow for more efficient control and switching of electrical currents in high-power systems. Current solutions, however, often face limitations in terms of size, complexity, and energy loss. DEAs, due to their low-cost manufacturing, high elasticity, and energy efficiency, offer a promising alternative for improving the performance of these devices. Their inherent properties, such as fast response time and large actuation strain, make them ideal candidates for novel switch designs in high-voltage environments. This work focuses on the design and optimization of a DEA-based MOSFET that leverages the properties of silicone and carbon black electrodes. The proposed design will explore the integration of DEAs into existing MOSFET architectures to achieve higher voltage ratings and improved reliability in power electronics applications.