A recent Medgadget article discussed a new and improved artificial muscle that is both stronger and more elastic than genuine natural muscles. The new muscle is actually an electroactive polymer, a type of dielectric elastomer that can change shape or size with electric stimulation. It is composed of films about the thickness of hair that are stacked to form mini muscles. Practical uses include robotic prostheses, medical soft robots, and wearable devices. A video that shows the artificial muscles in action can be seen here.
