Miniature, lightweight and energy efficient pumps and valves based on motion of dielectric elastomeric thin-film silicone

https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1076700

"no need for compressed air, motors, lubricants, copper, rare earths... 400X less energy, silent, cleanroom-compatible, can be continuously controlled while operating... can pull vacuum down to 300 mb pressure, deliver exact liquid quantities, act as stepless switches... silicone films (flexible electrically conducting layer printed onto each side) moved applying a small electrical voltage... self-sensing/ reporting... brake boosters, surgical suction, pharmaceutical/ biotech/ foods (freeze drying, sealing, distillation), robot grippers"