FURI | Spring 2026

Photo-Curing of PDMS Foams

PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) is a polymer that possesses mechanical properties useful for various applications such as pressure sensing and energy storage. Controlling the porosity by freeze-casting allows higher resolution results when used for pressure sensing. However, PDMS is usually thermo-cured, restricting design possibilities. The ability to photo-cure the polymer can give more control over the design process allowing more customized applications, including wearable technology. This research aims to combine these methods of controlling curing kinetics and porosity to achieve a polymeric material for high resolution pressure measurements with more customizability in product design.