Surface Correction Control Based on Plasticized Multilayer P(VDF‐TrFE‐CFE) Actuator—Live Mirror

Abstract The interdisciplinary approach presented here creates next‐generation large mirrors using electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators without classical glass abrasive polishing (“live mirrors”). The outstanding electromechanical coupling properties of terpolymer are taken advantage of, particularly when doped with plasticizer, e.g., diisononyl phthalate (DINP). This doped terpolymer creates a large strain response as well as excellent mechanical energy density under relatively low electric fields. Classical EAPs (e.g., polyurethane, silicone) require extremely high input voltages to reach sufficient mechanical strain. Using the high‐permittivity doped terpolymer and the concept of stacking multilayers, high displacements and large forces are generated. The actuation performance of multilayered terpolymer filled with DINP has been proven to shape mirror glass with a preliminary prototype of an 8‐layer actuator stack. The experimental results demonstrate surface deformations under load conditions of several microns. This is large enough to usefully control large optical telescope mirrors. This technology may enable much larger high‐quality optical mirror systems for ground‐ and space‐based astronomy and communications telescopes.