[The book explains the theory behind electroactive bending (including ion-polymer-metal-composites –IPMCs), dielectric elastomers, electroactive contraction, and electroactive contraction-expansion cycles. The book also balances theory with applications, how electroactivity can be used, drawing inspiration from the manmade mechanical world and the natural world around us. , The book explains the theory behind electroactive bending (including ion-polymer-metal-composites –IPMCs), dielectric elastomers, electroactive contraction, and electroactive contraction-expansion cycles. The book also balances theory with applications, how electroactivity can be used, drawing inspiration from the manmade mechanical world and the natural world around us. ]