This article details the development of an electrically-responsive bending actuator from a graphene oxide (GO), nanosized-ZnO, and sulfonated poly(vinyl alcohol) (S-PVA) nanocomposite membrane coated with platinum (Pt). The solution-cast S-PVA/ZnO/GO/Pt membrane exhibits an ion-exchange capacity of 1.68 meq g−1 and favorable electrochemical characteristics. With a 67.28% water uptake after a 4 h immersion at 45 °C, it serves as the foundation for an ionic polymeric-metal composite (IPMC) actuator. Electrolessly plated Pt layers ensure slow water loss (31.6% after 12 min at 6 V), enhancing long-term durability. Electromechanical characterization reveals a 10 mm tip displacement at 3 V, indicating improved investigations. The resulting IPMC nanocomposite with Pt coating demonstrates excellent mechanical, electrical, and electrochemical capabilities for diverse applications. Comprehensive analyses, including SEM, EDX mapping, TGA, and XRD, elucidate the membrane’s characteristics. This refined nanocomposite holds promising potential across various applications, offering enhanced invetigations and durability in electrically-driven actuation systems.
