The use of electro-mechanical devices based on polymers coated with ultra thin, conductive elctrodes is of growing interest. The inherent flexibility of dielectric and electrodes can be used to create devices capable of large deformation. A novel test has been devised to determine the relationship between the mechanical response of clamped elastomer membranes and an electric field.

The process of this novel test is as follows: the thin, flexible, silicon-based substrate, PDMS, is coated with a thin layer of copper by means of a sputter technique. The uniformity and surface characteristics of the copper thin film are then studied both before and after stress (stretching) is applied to the system. The goal is to find the maximum thickness of the copper surface possible as typical strain is induced; this will maximize the conducting efficiency and longevity of the system.