A current control device is described wherein a pressure conduction composite
is
compressed and decompressed to alter its conductivity and thereby current conduction
through the device. The pressure conduction composite is composed of a nonconductive
matrix, a conductive filler, and an additive. The invention consists of electrodes,
a nonconducting isolator, and pressure plates contacting the composite. Electrically
activated actuators apply a force onto pressures plates. Each actuator is a piezoelectric,
piezoceramic, electrostrictive, magnetostrictive, or piezo-controlled pneumatic
element, capable of extending and/or contracting thereby altering pressure and
consequently resistivity within the composite.