Advances in Dielectric Elastomer Composites: A Nonlinear Elasticity Framework

This is a comprehensive guide to dielectric elastomer composites (DECs), which play an integral role in new electromechanically active smart-material technologies.

Introducing the basic concepts behind DECs, the book is accessible to readers at all levels. It demonstrates how to implement practical problem-solving methods through nonlinear continuum mechanics and also discusses fiber-reinforced anisotropic DE composites and the electromechanically coupled behavior of anisotropic fiber-reinforced DEs. Using practical examples throughout, it proposes models which utilize the strain energy function, nonlinear electro-elasticity, and nonlinear continuum mechanics. It presents clear guidelines for creating practical nonlinear finite element code, and introduces the reader to hyperelasticity.

The book will be an accessible reference guide for students, researchers, and engineers in the field of mechanical engineering, bioengineering, materials science, aeronautics, and robotics.

Masoud Asgari is a distinguished academic known for his expertise in Mechanical Engineering. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at K. N. Toosi University of Technology in Tehran, Iran, he has made significant strides in both academia and industry. Dr. Asgari completed his academic journey with excellent achievements, earning his PhD from Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), where he also excelled during his undergraduate study and master’s study at Sharif University of Technology. His dissertation and thesis were both awarded the highest grades, reflecting his dedication and scholarly prowess. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Asgari has held pivotal roles at K. N. Toosi University of Technology, including Vice Chancellor in Educational Affairs and Head of the Automotive Engineering Department. He has been instrumental in advancing research in Lightweight Construction, Additive Production Processes, and the Invention of Functional Materials. Dr. Asgari’s research contributions extend internationally, having undertaken research visits at institutions such as the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia in Italy and Bern University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland. Recognized as one of the top minds in his field, Dr. Asgari has received some awards, including being listed in the Stanford-Elsevier Ranking of Top 2% Highly-cited Scientists in 2022. Dr. Asgari’s commitment to advancing the field of Mechanical Engineering is further evidenced by his role as a reviewer for esteemed journals indexed in Web of Science, where he contributes to the dissemination of knowledge and quality research.

Marzie Majidi received her Ph.D. degree in mechanical engineering K. N. Toosi University of Technology in Tehran, Iran, in 2023. Her research focused on modeling dielectric and magnetorheological elastomers, key materials for innovative actuators. Dr. Majidi is currently at Saipa Automative Industries Research Innovative Center (AIRIC), working on Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) analysis as a CAE expert. She received the M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees in mechanical engineering from University of Tehran (UT), in 2017, and Buali Sina university, in 2014. Her research has been on modeling of dielectric and magnetorheological elastomers, Topological Interlocking Material (TIMs), finite element methods, and automative NVH analysis.