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Kong Q, Tan Y, Zhang H, Zhu T, Li Y, Xing Y, Wang X. Mimosa-Inspired Body Temperature-Responsive Shape Memory Polymer Networks: High Energy Densities and Multi-Recyclability. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2407596. [PMID: 39140246 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202407596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Inspired by the Mimosa plant, this study herein develops a unique dynamic shape memory polymer (SMP) network capable of transitioning from hard to pliable with heat, featuring reversible actuation, self-healing, recyclability, and degradability. This material is adept at simulating the functionalities of artificial muscles for a variety of tasks, with a remarkable specific energy density of 1.8 J g-1-≈46 times higher than that of human skeletal muscle. As an intelligent manipulator, it demonstrates remarkable proficiency in identifying and handling items at high temperatures. Its suitable rate of shape recovery around human body temperature indicates its promising utility as an implant material for addressing acute obstructions. The dynamic covalent bonding within the network structure not only provides excellent resistance to solvents but also bestows remarkable abilities for self-healing, reprocessing, and degradation. These attributes significantly boost its practicality and environmental sustainability. Anticipated to promote advancements in the sectors of biomedical devices, soft robotics, and smart actuators, this SMP network represents a forward leap in simulating artificial muscles, marking a stride toward the future of adaptive and sustainable technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingming Kong
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250100, China
| | - Yu Tan
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250100, China
| | - Haiyang Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250100, China
| | - Tengyang Zhu
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250100, China
| | - Yitan Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250100, China
| | - Yongzheng Xing
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250100, China
| | - Xu Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250100, China
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2
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Yang G, Dong L, Ren M, Cui B, Yuan X, Wang X, Li Y, Li W, Qiao G, Shao Y, Li W, Wang X, Xu P, Fang H, Di J, Li Q. Coiled Carbon Nanotube Fibers Sheathed by a Reinforced Liquid Crystal Elastomer for Strong and Programmable Artificial Muscles. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:9608-9616. [PMID: 39012768 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c02239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Fibers of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) as promising artificial muscle show ultralarge and reversible contractile strokes. However, the contractile force is limited by the poor mechanical properties of the LCE fibers. Herein, we report high-strength LCE fibers by introducing a secondary network into the single-network LCE. The double-network LCE (DNLCE) shows considerable improvements in tensile strength (313.9%) and maximum actuation stress (342.8%) compared to pristine LCE. To facilitate the controllability and application, a coiled artificial muscle fiber consisting of DNLCE-coated carbon nanotube (CNT) fiber is prepared. When electrothermally driven, the artificial muscle fiber outputs a high actuation performance and programmable actuation. Furthermore, by knitting the artificial muscle fibers into origami structures, an intelligent gripper and crawling inchworm robot have been demonstrated. These demonstrations provide promising application scenarios for advanced intelligent systems in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Yang
- School of Nano-Technology and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Lizhong Dong
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Ming Ren
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Bo Cui
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xiaojie Yuan
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- School of Nano-Technology and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yuxin Li
- School of Nano-Technology and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Wei Li
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Guanlong Qiao
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yunfeng Shao
- School of Nano-Technology and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Weiwei Li
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xiaona Wang
- School of Nano-Technology and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Panpan Xu
- School of Nano-Technology and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Hongbin Fang
- Institute of AI and Robotics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jiangtao Di
- School of Nano-Technology and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Qingwen Li
- School of Nano-Technology and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Advanced Materials Division, Key Laboratory of Multifunctional Nanomaterials and Smart Systems, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
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3
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Jiang Z, Tran BH, Jolfaei MA, Abbasi BBA, Spinks GM. Crack-Resistant and Tissue-Like Artificial Muscles with Low Temperature Activation and High Power Density. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2402278. [PMID: 38657958 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202402278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Constructing soft robotics with safe human-machine interactions requires low-modulus, high-power-density artificial muscles that are sensitive to gentle stimuli. In addition, the ability to resist crack propagation during long-term actuation cycles is essential for a long service life. Herein, a material design is proposed to combine all these desirable attributes in a single artificial muscle platform. The design involves the molecular engineering of a liquid crystalline network with crystallizable segments and an ethylene glycol flexible spacer. A high degree of crystallinity can be afforded by utilizing aza-Michael chemistry to produce a low covalent crosslinking density, resulting in crack-insensitivity with a high fracture energy of 33 720 J m-2 and a high fatigue threshold of 2250 J m-2. Such crack-resistant artificial muscle with tissue-matched modulus of 0.7 MPa can generate a high power density of 450 W kg-1 at a low temperature of 40 °C. Notably, because of the presence of crystalline domains in the actuated state, no crack propagation is observed after 500 heating-cooling actuation cycles under a static load of 220 kPa. This study points to a pathway for the creation of artificial muscles merging seemingly disparate, but desirable properties, broadening their application potential in smart devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Jiang
- School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Bach H Tran
- School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Maryam Adavoudi Jolfaei
- School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Burhan Bin Asghar Abbasi
- School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Geoffrey M Spinks
- School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
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4
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Chen W, Tong D, Meng L, Tan B, Lan R, Zhang Q, Yang H, Wang C, Liu K. Knotted Artificial Muscles for Bio-Mimetic Actuation under Deepwater. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2400763. [PMID: 38641927 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202400763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Muscles featuring high frequency and high stroke linear actuation are essential for animals to achieve superior maneuverability, agility, and environmental adaptability. Artificial muscles are yet to match their biological counterparts, due to inferior actuation speed, magnitude, mode, or adaptability. Inspired by the hierarchical structure of natural muscles, artificial muscles are created that are powerful, responsive, robust, and adaptable. The artificial muscles consist of knots braided from 3D printed liquid crystal elastomer fibers and thin heating threads. The unique hierarchical, braided knot structure offers amplified linear stroke, force rate, and damage-tolerance, as verified by both numerical simulations and experiments. In particular, the square knotted artificial muscle shows reliable cycles of actuation at 1Hz in 3000m depth underwater. Potential application is demonstrated by propelling a model boat. Looking ahead, the knotted artificial muscles can empower novel biomedical devices and soft robots to explore various environments, from inside human body to the mysterious deep sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Chen
- Department of Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics, Peking University, No. 5 Yiheyuan Rd., Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Dezhong Tong
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, 405 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles, California, 90095, USA
| | - Linghan Meng
- Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 135 Chuangxin Rd., Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Bowen Tan
- Department of Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics, Peking University, No. 5 Yiheyuan Rd., Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Ruochen Lan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, No. 5 Yiheyuan Rd., Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Qifeng Zhang
- Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 135 Chuangxin Rd., Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Huai Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, No. 5 Yiheyuan Rd., Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 135 Chuangxin Rd., Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Ke Liu
- Department of Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics, Peking University, No. 5 Yiheyuan Rd., Beijing, 100871, China
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5
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Wang Y, Wang Y, Mushtaq RT, Wei Q. Advancements in Soft Robotics: A Comprehensive Review on Actuation Methods, Materials, and Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1087. [PMID: 38675005 PMCID: PMC11054840 DOI: 10.3390/polym16081087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The flexibility and adaptability of soft robots enable them to perform various tasks in changing environments, such as flower picking, fruit harvesting, in vivo targeted treatment, and information feedback. However, these fulfilled functions are discrepant, based on the varied working environments, driving methods, and materials. To further understand the working principle and research emphasis of soft robots, this paper summarized the current research status of soft robots from the aspects of actuating methods (e.g., humidity, temperature, PH, electricity, pressure, magnetic field, light, biological, and hybrid drive), materials (like hydrogels, shape-memory materials, and other flexible materials) and application areas (camouflage, medical devices, electrical equipment, and grippers, etc.). Finally, we provided some opinions on the technical difficulties and challenges of soft robots to comprehensively comprehend soft robots, lucubrate their applications, and improve the quality of our lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Wang
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China; (R.T.M.); (Q.W.)
| | - Yanen Wang
- Industry Engineering Department, School of Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China; (R.T.M.); (Q.W.)
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6
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Zhou SW, Zhou D, Gu R, Ma CS, Yu C, Qu DH. Mechanically interlocked [c2]daisy chain backbone enabling advanced shape-memory polymeric materials. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1690. [PMID: 38402228 PMCID: PMC10894290 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45980-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The incorporation of mechanically interlocked structures into polymer backbones has been shown to confer remarkable functionalities to materials. In this work, a [c2]daisy chain unit based on dibenzo-24-crown-8 is covalently embedded into the backbone of a polymer network, resulting in a synthetic material possessing remarkable shape-memory properties under thermal control. By decoupling the molecular structure into three control groups, we demonstrate the essential role of the [c2]daisy chain crosslinks in driving the shape memory function. The mechanically interlocked topology is found to be an essential element for the increase of glass transition temperature and consequent gain of shape memory function. The supramolecular host-guest interactions within the [c2]daisy chain topology not only ensure robust mechanical strength and good network stability of the polymer, but also impart the shape memory polymer with remarkable shape recovery properties and fatigue resistance ability. The incorporation of the [c2]daisy chain unit as a building block has the potential to lay the groundwork for the development of a wide range of shape-memory polymer materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang-Wu Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Danlei Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Ruirui Gu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China.
| | - Chang-Shun Ma
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Chengyuan Yu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Da-Hui Qu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China.
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7
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Wu Y, Pei D, Wei F, Liu P, Li M, Li T, Li C. Tough and Photo-Plastic Liquid Crystal Elastomer with a 2-Fold Dynamic Linker for Artificial Muscles. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:44205-44211. [PMID: 37672356 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c08390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) have been optimized by combining cross-linkers and dynamic bonds to achieve a reversible actuation behavior comparable to living skeletal muscles. In this study, one unique type of segment with 2-fold dynamic properties was introduced into LCEs, which offered not only dynamic diselenide covalent bonds for thermo-/photoplasticity but also H-bond arrays for dynamic cross-linking and mechanical robustness. Besides self-healing, self-welding, and recyclability, the LCEs were reprogrammable with elevated temperature or intensive visible light irradiation. The resultant LCEs gave an actuation blocking stress of 1.96 MPa and an elastic modulus of 14.4 MPa at 80 °C. The actuation work capacity reached 135.2 kJ m-3. When incorporating the Joule electrode or photothermal materials, the LCEs could be programmed as the electricity-driven and photothermal artificial muscles and thereby promised the application both as a biomimetic artificial hand and as an energy collector from sunlight. Thus, the 2-fold dynamic LCEs offered the pathway of enabling the reversible actuation behavior comparable to living skeletal muscles and promising applications in sustainable actuators, artificial muscles, and soft robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongpeng Wu
- School of Material Science and Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, P. R. China
- Group of Biomimetic Smart Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, CAS & Shandong Energy Institute, Songling Road 189, Qingdao 266101, P. R. China
| | - Danfeng Pei
- Group of Biomimetic Smart Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, CAS & Shandong Energy Institute, Songling Road 189, Qingdao 266101, P. R. China
| | - Fang Wei
- Group of Biomimetic Smart Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, CAS & Shandong Energy Institute, Songling Road 189, Qingdao 266101, P. R. China
| | - Ping Liu
- Group of Biomimetic Smart Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, CAS & Shandong Energy Institute, Songling Road 189, Qingdao 266101, P. R. China
| | - Mingjie Li
- Group of Biomimetic Smart Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, CAS & Shandong Energy Institute, Songling Road 189, Qingdao 266101, P. R. China
| | - Tingxi Li
- School of Material Science and Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, P. R. China
| | - Chaoxu Li
- Group of Biomimetic Smart Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, CAS & Shandong Energy Institute, Songling Road 189, Qingdao 266101, P. R. China
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8
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Chen M, Gao M, Bai L, Zheng H, Qi HJ, Zhou K. Recent Advances in 4D Printing of Liquid Crystal Elastomers. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209566. [PMID: 36461147 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are renowned for their large, reversible, and anisotropic shape change in response to various external stimuli due to their lightly cross-linked polymer networks with an oriented mesogen direction, thus showing great potential for applications in robotics, bio-medics, electronics, optics, and energy. To fully take advantage of the anisotropic stimuli-responsive behaviors of LCEs, it is preferable to achieve a locally controlled mesogen alignment into monodomain orientations. In recent years, the application of 4D printing to LCEs opens new doors for simultaneously programming the mesogen alignment and the 3D geometry, offering more opportunities and higher feasibility for the fabrication of 4D-printed LCE objects with desirable stimuli-responsive properties. Here, the state-of-the-art advances in 4D printing of LCEs are reviewed, with emphasis on both the mechanisms and potential applications. First, the fundamental properties of LCEs and the working principles of the representative 4D printing techniques are briefly introduced. Then, the fabrication of LCEs by 4D printing techniques and the advantages over conventional manufacturing methods are demonstrated. Finally, perspectives on the current challenges and potential development trends toward the 4D printing of LCEs are discussed, which may shed light on future research directions in this new field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Chen
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Ming Gao
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Lichun Bai
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China
| | - Han Zheng
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - H Jerry Qi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Kun Zhou
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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9
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Nakagawa S, Aoki D, Asano Y, Yoshie N. Module-Assembled Elastomer Showing Large Strain Stiffening Capability and High Stretchability. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2301124. [PMID: 36929528 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202301124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Elastomers are indispensable materials due to their flexible, stretchable, and elastic nature. However, the polymer network structure constituting an elastomer is generally inhomogeneous, limiting the performance of the material. Here, a highly stretchable elastomer with unprecedented strain-stiffening capability is developed based on a highly homogeneous network structure enabled by a module assembly strategy. The elastomer is synthesized by efficient end-linking of a star-shaped aliphatic polyester precursor with a narrow molecular-weight distribution. The resulting product shows high strength (≈26 MPa) and remarkable stretchability (stretch ratio at break ≈1900%), as well as good fatigue resistance and notch insensitivity. Moreover, it shows extraordinary strain-stiffening capability (>2000-fold increase in the apparent stiffness) that exceeds the performance of any existing soft material. These unique properties are due to strain-induced ordering of the polymer chains in a uniformly stretched network, as revealed by in situ X-ray scattering analyses. The utility of this great strain-stiffening capability is demonstrated by realizing a simple variable stiffness actuator for soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shintaro Nakagawa
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
| | - Daisuke Aoki
- Graduate School of Engineering, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Yuki Asano
- Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Naoko Yoshie
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
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10
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Luu K, Park SY. Shape-Persistent Liquid Crystal Elastomers with Cis-Stable Crosslinkers Containing Ortho-Methyl-Substituted Azobenzene. Macromolecules 2023. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c02194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Khuong Luu
- School of Applied Chemical Engineering, Polymeric Nanomaterials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Young Park
- School of Applied Chemical Engineering, Polymeric Nanomaterials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
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11
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Bobnar M, Derets N, Umerova S, Domenici V, Novak N, Lavrič M, Cordoyiannis G, Zalar B, Rešetič A. Polymer-dispersed liquid crystal elastomers as moldable shape-programmable material. Nat Commun 2023; 14:764. [PMID: 36765062 PMCID: PMC9918464 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36426-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The current development of soft shape-memory materials often results in materials that are typically limited to the synthesis of thin-walled specimens and usually rely on complex, low-yield manufacturing techniques to fabricate macro-sized, solid three-dimensional objects. However, such geometrical limitations and slow production rates can significantly hinder their practical implementation. In this work, we demonstrate a shape-memory composite material that can be effortlessly molded into arbitrary shapes or sizes. The composite material is made from main-chain liquid crystal elastomer (MC-LCE) microparticles dispersed in a silicone polymer matrix. Shape-programmability is achieved via low-temperature induced glassiness and hardening of MC-LCE inclusions, which effectively freezes-in any mechanically instilled deformations. Once thermally reset, the composite returns to its initial shape and can be shape-programmed again. Magnetically aligning MC-LCE microparticles prior to curing allows the shape-programmed artefacts to be additionally thermomechanically functionalized. Therefore, our material enables efficient morphing among the virgin, thermally-programmed, and thermomechanically-controlled shapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matej Bobnar
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nikita Derets
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia ,grid.423485.c0000 0004 0548 8017On leave from: Ioffe Institute, Division of Physics of Dielectrics and Semiconductors, Politekhnicheskaya 26, 194021 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Saide Umerova
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Valentina Domenici
- grid.5395.a0000 0004 1757 3729Dipartimento di Chimica e Chimica Industriale, Università degli studi di Pisa, via Moruzzi 13, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Nikola Novak
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marta Lavrič
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - George Cordoyiannis
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Boštjan Zalar
- grid.11375.310000 0001 0706 0012Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia ,grid.445211.7Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andraž Rešetič
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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12
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Park M, Stricker F, Campos JG, Clark KD, Lee J, Kwon Y, Valentine MT, Read de Alaniz J. Design of Surface-Aligned Main-Chain Liquid-Crystal Networks Prepared under Ambient, Light-Free Conditions Using the Diels-Alder Cycloaddition. ACS Macro Lett 2023; 12:33-39. [PMID: 36541858 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.2c00616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Surface-aligned liquid-crystal networks (LCNs) offer a solution for developing functional materials capable of performing a range of tasks, including actuation, shape memory, and surfaces patterning. Here we show that Diels-Alder cycloaddition can be used to prepare the backbone of planar aligned LCNs under mild ambient conditions without the addition of additives or UV irradiation. The mechanical properties of the networks have robust viscoelastic modulus and stiffness with a reversible local free volume change upon physical aging. This study shows new opportunities to design surface-aligned LCNs based on additive free step-growth Diels-Alder polymerization and enables the potential to incorporate a wider range of photochromic materials into LCNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwook Park
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California at Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara 93106, California, United States
| | - Friedrich Stricker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California at Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara 93106, California, United States
| | - Jesus Guillen Campos
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California at Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara 93106, California, United States
| | - Kyle D Clark
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California at Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara 93106, California, United States
| | - Jaejun Lee
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Younghoon Kwon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California-Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara 93106, California, United States
| | - Megan T Valentine
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California-Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara 93106, California, United States
| | - Javier Read de Alaniz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California at Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara 93106, California, United States
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13
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Emerging 4D printing strategies for on-demand local actuation & micro printing of soft materials. Eur Polym J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2022.111778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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14
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Kim IH, Choi S, Lee J, Jung J, Yeo J, Kim JT, Ryu S, Ahn SK, Kang J, Poulin P, Kim SO. Human-muscle-inspired single fibre actuator with reversible percolation. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 17:1198-1205. [PMID: 36302962 PMCID: PMC9646516 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-022-01220-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Artificial muscles are indispensable components for next-generation robotics capable of mimicking sophisticated movements of living systems. However, an optimal combination of actuation parameters, including strain, stress, energy density and high mechanical strength, is required for their practical applications. Here we report mammalian-skeletal-muscle-inspired single fibres and bundles with large and strong contractive actuation. The use of exfoliated graphene fillers within a uniaxial liquid crystalline matrix enables photothermal actuation with large work capacity and rapid response. Moreover, the reversible percolation of graphene fillers induced by the thermodynamic conformational transition of mesoscale structures can be in situ monitored by electrical switching. Such a dynamic percolation behaviour effectively strengthens the mechanical properties of the actuator fibres, particularly in the contracted actuation state, enabling mammalian-muscle-like reliable reversible actuation. Taking advantage of a mechanically compliant fibre structure, smart actuators are readily integrated into strong bundles as well as high-power soft robotics with light-driven remote control.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Ho Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- National Creative Research Initiative Center for Multi-dimensional Directed Nanoscale Assembly, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Subi Choi
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Lee
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyoung Jung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinwook Yeo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Tae Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- National Creative Research Initiative Center for Multi-dimensional Directed Nanoscale Assembly, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghwa Ryu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Kyun Ahn
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiheong Kang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Philippe Poulin
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, Pessac, France
| | - Sang Ouk Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- National Creative Research Initiative Center for Multi-dimensional Directed Nanoscale Assembly, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- Materials Creation, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Javed M, Corazao T, Saed MO, Ambulo CP, Li Y, Kessler MR, Ware TH. Programmable Shape Change in Semicrystalline Liquid Crystal Elastomers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:35087-35096. [PMID: 35866446 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c07533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are stimuli-responsive materials capable of reversible and programmable shape change in response to an environmental stimulus. Despite the highly responsive nature of these materials, the modest elastic modulus and blocking stress exhibited by these actuating materials can be limiting in some engineering applications. Here, we engineer a semicrystalline LCE, where the incorporation of semicrystallinity in a lightly cross-linked liquid crystalline network yields tough and highly responsive materials. Directed self-assembly can be employed to program director profiles through the thickness of the semicrystalline LCE. In short, we use the alignment of a liquid crystal monomer phase to pattern the anisotropy of a semicrystalline polymer network. Both the semicrystalline-liquid crystalline and liquid crystalline-isotropic phase transition temperatures provide controllable shape transformations. A planarly aligned sample's normalized dimension parallel to the nematic director decreases from 1 at room temperature to 0.42 at 250 °C. The introduction of the semicrystalline nature also enhances the mechanical properties exhibited by the semicrystalline LCE. Semicrystalline LCEs have a storage modulus of 390 MPa at room temperature, and monodomain samples are capable of generating a contractile stress of 2.7 MPa on heating from 25 to 50 °C, far below the nematic to isotropic transition temperature. The robust mechanical properties of this material combined with the high actuation strain can be leveraged for applications such as soft robotics and actuators capable of doing significant work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahjabeen Javed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Tyler Corazao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | | | - Cedric P Ambulo
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Yuzhan Li
- University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Michael R Kessler
- North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
| | - Taylor H Ware
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
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16
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Jiang Y, Dong X, Wang Q, Dai S, Li L, Yuan N, Ding J. A High-Fidelity Preparation Method for Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuators. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:7190-7197. [PMID: 35635021 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c00490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) structural actuators based on monodomain liquid crystal elastomers (mLCEs) show a wide range of potential applications. A direct ink writing technique has been developed to print LCE structures. It is still a challenge to print high-precision 3D-mLCE actuators. Here, a method of wet 3D printing combined with freeze-drying is proposed. The coagulation bath is designed to restrain the nascent fiber disturbance of the capillary wave and weight by adjusting the ink viscosity and printing speed to control the LC molecular order, enabling uniform (B = 1.02) fibers with a high degree of orientational alignment (S = 0.45) of the mesogens. Furthermore, dynamic disulfide bond formation was used as the cross-linking point, which can allow the LCE network structure to be continuously cured to ensure adjacent layers are effectively bonded and, in combination with freeze-drying, produce the 3D-mLCE actuators of fidelity architecture (98.37 vol %) by printing. The actuators have excellent actuating strain (45.12%), and the dynamic disulfide bond makes them programmable. Finally, a printed bionic starfish and a printed bionic hand can easily grab regular and irregular objects. This work provides a feasible scheme for fabricating complex 3D-mLCEs with reversible changes in shape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Jiang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Xu Dong
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Qi Wang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | | | - Lvzhou Li
- Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, P. R. China
| | - Ningyi Yuan
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Jianning Ding
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
- Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, P. R. China
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17
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Li Y, Liu T, Ambrogi V, Rios O, Xia M, He W, Yang Z. Liquid Crystalline Elastomers Based on Click Chemistry. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:14842-14858. [PMID: 35319184 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c21096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) have emerged as an important class of functional materials that are suitable for a wide range of applications, such as sensors, actuators, and soft robotics. The unique properties of LCEs originate from the combination between liquid crystal and elastomeric network. The control of macroscopic liquid crystalline orientation and network structure is crucial to realizing the useful functionalities of LCEs. A variety of chemistries have been developed to fabricate LCEs, including hydrosilylation, free radical polymerization of acrylate, and polyaddition of epoxy and carboxylic acid. Over the past few years, the use of click chemistry has become a more robust and energy-efficient way to construct LCEs with desired structures. This article provides an overview of emerging LCEs based on click chemistries, including aza-Michael addition between amine and acrylate, radical-mediated thiol-ene and thiol-yne reactions, base-catalyzed thiol-acrylate and thiol-epoxy reactions, copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition, and Diels-Alder cycloaddition. The similarities and differences of these reactions are discussed, with particular attention focused on the strengths and limitations of each reaction for the preparation of LCEs with controlled structures and orientations. The compatibility of these reactions with the traditional and emerging processing techniques, such as surface alignment and additive manufacturing, are surveyed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of using click chemistry for the design of LCEs with advanced functionalities and applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhan Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Tuan Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Veronica Ambrogi
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli 80125, Italy
| | - Orlando Rios
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Min Xia
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wanli He
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Zhou Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
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18
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Li M, Dai S, Dong X, Jiang Y, Ge J, Xu Y, Yuan N, Ding J. High-Strength, Large-Deformation, Dual Cross-Linking Network Liquid Crystal Elastomers Based on Quadruple Hydrogen Bonds. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:1560-1566. [PMID: 35061400 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.1c03010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) with large deformation under external stimuli have attracted extensive attention in various applications such as soft robotics, 4D printing, and biomedical devices. However, it is still a great challenge to reduce the damage to collimation and enhance the mechanical and actuation properties of LCEs simultaneously. Here, we construct a new method of a double cross-linking network structure to improve the mechanical properties of LCEs. The ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) group with quadruple hydrogen bonds was used as the physical cross-linking unit, and pentaerythritol tetra(3-mercaptopropionate) was used as the chemical cross-link. The LCEs showed a strong mechanical tensile strength of 8.5 MPa and excellent thermally induced deformation (50%). In addition, the introduction of quadruple hydrogen bonds endows self-healing ability to extend the service life of LCEs. This provides a generic strategy for the fabrication of high-strength LCEs, inspiring the development of actuators and artificial muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Shengping Dai
- Institute of Intelligent Flexible Mechatronics, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, P. R. China
| | - Xu Dong
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Yaoyao Jiang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Jun Ge
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Yida Xu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Ningyi Yuan
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
| | - Jianning Ding
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, P. R. China
- Institute of Intelligent Flexible Mechatronics, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, P. R. China
- Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, P. R. China
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19
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Del Pozo M, Sol JAHP, Schenning APHJ, Debije MG. 4D Printing of Liquid Crystals: What's Right for Me? ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2104390. [PMID: 34716625 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202104390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have seen major advances in the developments of both additive manufacturing concepts and responsive materials. When combined as 4D printing, the process can lead to functional materials and devices for use in health, energy generation, sensing, and soft robots. Among responsive materials, liquid crystals, which can deliver programmed, reversible, rapid responses in both air and underwater, are a prime contender for additive manufacturing, given their ease of use and adaptability to many different applications. In this paper, selected works are compared and analyzed to come to a didactical overview of the liquid crystal-additive manufacturing junction. Reading from front to back gives the reader a comprehensive understanding of the options and challenges in the field, while researchers already experienced in either liquid crystals or additive manufacturing are encouraged to scan through the text to see how they can incorporate additive manufacturing or liquid crystals into their own work. The educational text is closed with proposals for future research in this crossover field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Del Pozo
- Laboratory for Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen A H P Sol
- Laboratory for Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Albert P H J Schenning
- Laboratory for Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Michael G Debije
- Laboratory for Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
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20
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Cooper C, Nikzad S, Yan H, Ochiai Y, Lai JC, Yu Z, Chen G, Kang J, Bao Z. High Energy Density Shape Memory Polymers Using Strain-Induced Supramolecular Nanostructures. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2021; 7:1657-1667. [PMID: 34729409 PMCID: PMC8554838 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.1c00829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Shape memory polymers are promising materials in many emerging applications due to their large extensibility and excellent shape recovery. However, practical application of these polymers is limited by their poor energy densities (up to ∼1 MJ/m3). Here, we report an approach to achieve a high energy density, one-way shape memory polymer based on the formation of strain-induced supramolecular nanostructures. As polymer chains align during strain, strong directional dynamic bonds form, creating stable supramolecular nanostructures and trapping stretched chains in a highly elongated state. Upon heating, the dynamic bonds break, and stretched chains contract to their initial disordered state. This mechanism stores large amounts of entropic energy (as high as 19.6 MJ/m3 or 17.9 J/g), almost six times higher than the best previously reported shape memory polymers while maintaining near 100% shape recovery and fixity. The reported phenomenon of strain-induced supramolecular structures offers a new approach toward achieving high energy density shape memory polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher
B. Cooper
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Shayla Nikzad
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Hongping Yan
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Stanford
Synchroton Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National
Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California 94025, United States
| | - Yuto Ochiai
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Jian-Cheng Lai
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- State
Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and
Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Zhiao Yu
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Gan Chen
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Material Science and Engineering, Stanford
University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Jiheong Kang
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Zhenan Bao
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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21
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Ohzono T, Minamikawa H, Koyama E, Norikane Y. Impact of Crystallites in Nematic Elastomers on Dynamic Mechanical Properties and Adhesion. Macromolecules 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.1c01160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Ohzono
- Research Institute for Advanced Electronics and Photonics, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Minamikawa
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, AIST, 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| | - Emiko Koyama
- Research Institute for Advanced Electronics and Photonics, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| | - Yasuo Norikane
- Research Institute for Advanced Electronics and Photonics, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
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22
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Zheng X, Chen Y, Chen C, Chen Z, Guo Y, Li H, Liu H. High-energy-density shape memory materials with ultrahigh strain for reconfigurable artificial muscles. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:7371-7380. [PMID: 34551055 DOI: 10.1039/d1tb01350e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Programmable and reconfigurable artificial muscles are highly promising and desirable for applications in various fields, including soft robotics, flexible devices, and biomedical devices. However, the combination of considerable strain and high energy density remains a dilemma to overcome. As stimulus-responsive polymers, shape memory polymers (SMPs) with enhanced mechanical properties and programmability have the potential to solve this problem. However, the purest shape memory polymer lacks reconfigurability, and it is challenging to achieve precise control due to its intrinsic thermal stimulation. Herein, we report a novel reconfigurable multi-block shape memory polymer and its composite with a granular micro-phase separated structure. The polymer demonstrated outstanding artificial muscle performance through the energy storing and releasing method, whose energy density and strain reached 717.8 kJ m-3 and 947%, respectively (17.9 and 23.7 times higher than that of mammalian skeletal muscles). Moreover, by incorporating Fe3O4 nanoparticle (Fe3O4 NP) photothermal transducers, the composite could achieve contraction, reversible muscle-like bending and complex programmable and reconfigurable deformation under near-infrared laser irradiation, including deformation into a specific letter shape, precise origami and bending with loads. Therefore, the prepared materials have excellent prospects as artificial muscles and high-power actuators for broad applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Yujie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Chi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Zhen Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Yutong Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Hua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Hezhou Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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23
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Zhang J, Guo Y, Hu W, Sitti M. Wirelessly Actuated Thermo- and Magneto-Responsive Soft Bimorph Materials with Programmable Shape-Morphing. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2100336. [PMID: 34048125 PMCID: PMC7612658 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202100336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Soft materials that respond to wireless external stimuli are referred to as "smart" materials due to their promising potential in real-world actuation and sensing applications in robotics, microfluidics, and bioengineering. Recent years have witnessed a burst of these stimuli-responsive materials and their preliminary applications. However, their further advancement demands more versatility, configurability, and adaptability to deliver their promised benefits. Here, a dual-stimuli-responsive soft bimorph material with three configurations that enable complex programmable 3D shape-morphing is presented. The material consists of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) and magnetic-responsive elastomers (MREs) via facile fabrication that orthogonally integrates their respective stimuli-responsiveness without detrimentally altering their properties. The material offers an unprecedented wide design space and abundant degree-of-freedoms (DoFs) due to the LCE's programmable director field, the MRE's programmable magnetization profile, and diverse geometric configurations. It responds to wireless stimuli of the controlled magnetic field and environmental temperature. Its dual-responsiveness allows the independent control of different DoFs for complex shape-morphing behaviors with anisotropic material properties. A diverse set of in situ reconfigurable shape-morphing and an environment-aware untethered miniature 12-legged robot capable of locomotion and self-gripping are demonstrated. Such material can provide solutions for the development of future soft robotic and other functional devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiachen Zhang
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Yubing Guo
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Wenqi Hu
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8092, Switzerland
- School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
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Cho EH, Luu K, Park SY. Mechano-Actuated Light-Responsive Main-Chain Liquid Crystal Elastomers. Macromolecules 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.1c00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eun-hye Cho
- School of Applied Chemical Engineering, Polymeric Nanomaterials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Khuong Luu
- School of Applied Chemical Engineering, Polymeric Nanomaterials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-young Park
- School of Applied Chemical Engineering, Polymeric Nanomaterials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
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Kim K, Guo Y, Bae J, Choi S, Song HY, Park S, Hyun K, Ahn SK. 4D Printing of Hygroscopic Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuators. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2100910. [PMID: 33938152 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202100910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are broadly recognized as programmable actuating materials that are responsive to external stimuli, typically heat or light. Yet, soft LCEs that respond to changes in environmental humidity are not reported, except a few examples based on rigid liquid crystal networks with limited processing. Herein, a new class of highly deformable hygroscopic LCE actuators that can be prepared by versatile processing methods, including surface alignment as well as 3D printing is presented. The dimethylamino-functionalized LCE is prepared by the aza-Michael addition reaction between a reactive LC monomer and N,N'-dimethylethylenediamine as a chain extender, followed by photopolymerization. The humidity-responsive properties are introduced by activating one of the LCE surfaces with an acidic solution, which generates cations on the surface and provides asymmetric hydrophilicity to the LCE. The resulting humidity-responsive LCE undergoes programmed and reversible hygroscopic actuation, and its shape transformation can be directed by the cut angle with respect to a nematic director or by localizing activation regions in the LCE. Most importantly, various hygroscopic LCE actuators, including (porous) bilayers, a flower, a concentric square array, and a soft gripper, are successfully fabricated by using LC inks in UV-assisted direct-ink-writing-based 3D printing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keumbee Kim
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Yuanhang Guo
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehee Bae
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Subi Choi
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Yong Song
- Institute for Environment and Energy, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungmin Park
- Advanced Materials Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Hyun
- School of Chemical Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Kyun Ahn
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
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Tu Z, Liu W, Wang J, Qiu X, Huang J, Li J, Lou H. Biomimetic high performance artificial muscle built on sacrificial coordination network and mechanical training process. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2916. [PMID: 34006839 PMCID: PMC8131361 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23204-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial muscle materials promise incredible applications in actuators, robotics and medical apparatus, yet the ability to mimic the full characteristics of skeletal muscles into synthetic materials remains a huge challenge. Herein, inspired by the dynamic sacrificial bonds in biomaterials and the self-strengthening of skeletal muscles by physical exercise, high performance artificial muscle material is prepared by rearrangement of sacrificial coordination bonds in the polyolefin elastomer via a repetitive mechanical training process. Biomass lignin is incorporated as a green reinforcer for the construction of interfacial coordination bonds. The prepared artificial muscle material exhibits high actuation strain (>40%), high actuation stress (1.5 MPa) which can lift more than 10,000 times its own weight with 30% strain, characteristics of excellent self-strengthening by mechanical training, strain-adaptive stiffening, and heat/electric programmable actuation performance. In this work, we show a facile strategy for the fabrication of intelligent materials using easily available raw materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhikai Tu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Green Fine Chemicals, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Weifeng Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Green Fine Chemicals, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China.
| | - Jin Wang
- The National Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Xueqing Qiu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China.
| | - Jinhao Huang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Green Fine Chemicals, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jinxing Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Green Fine Chemicals, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Hongming Lou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Green Fine Chemicals, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
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Zhang J, Guo Y, Hu W, Soon RH, Davidson ZS, Sitti M. Liquid Crystal Elastomer-Based Magnetic Composite Films for Reconfigurable Shape-Morphing Soft Miniature Machines. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2006191. [PMID: 33448077 PMCID: PMC7610459 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202006191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive and active materials promise radical advances for many applications. In particular, soft magnetic materials offer precise, fast, and wireless actuation together with versatile functionality, while liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are capable of large reversible and programmable shape-morphing with high work densities in response to various environmental stimuli, e.g., temperature, light, and chemical solutions. Integrating the orthogonal stimuli-responsiveness of these two kinds of active materials could potentially enable new functionalities and future applications. Here, magnetic microparticles (MMPs) are embedded into an LCE film to take the respective advantages of both materials without compromising their independent stimuli-responsiveness. This composite material enables reconfigurable magnetic soft miniature machines that can self-adapt to a changing environment. In particular, a miniature soft robot that can autonomously alter its locomotion mode when it moves from air to hot liquid, a vine-like filament that can sense and twine around a support, and a light-switchable magnetic spring are demonstrated. The integration of LCEs and MMPs into monolithic structures introduces a new dimension in the design of soft machines and thus greatly enhances their use in applications in complex environments, especially for miniature soft robots, which are self-adaptable to environmental changes while being remotely controllable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiachen Zhang
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Yubing Guo
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Wenqi Hu
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Ren Hao Soon
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Zoey S Davidson
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
- Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8092, Switzerland
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Xiao YY, Jiang ZC, Hou JB, Zhao Y. Desynchronized liquid crystalline network actuators with deformation reversal capability. Nat Commun 2021; 12:624. [PMID: 33504810 PMCID: PMC7840968 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-20938-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid crystalline network (LCN) actuator normally deforms upon thermally or optically induced order-disorder phase transition, switching once between two shapes (shape 1 in LC phase and shape 2 in isotropic state) for each stimulation on/off cycle. Herein, we report an LCN actuator that deforms from shape 1 to shape 2 and then reverses the deformation direction to form shape 3 on heating or under light only, thus completing the shape switch twice for one stimulation on/off cycle. The deformation reversal capability is obtained with a monolithic LCN actuator whose two sides are made to start deforming at different temperatures and exerting different reversible strains, by means of asymmetrical crosslinking and/or asymmetrical stretching. This desynchronized actuation strategy offers possibilities in developing light-fueled LCN soft robots. In particular, the multi-stage bidirectional shape change enables multimodal, light-driven locomotion from the same LCN actuator by simply varying the light on/off times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Yu Xiao
- Département de chimie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Zhi-Chao Jiang
- Département de chimie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Jun-Bo Hou
- Département de chimie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Yue Zhao
- Département de chimie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada.
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29
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Ambulo CP, Tasmim S, Wang S, Abdelrahman MK, Zimmern PE, Ware TH. Processing advances in liquid crystal elastomers provide a path to biomedical applications. JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYSICS 2020; 128:140901. [PMID: 33060862 PMCID: PMC7546753 DOI: 10.1063/5.0021143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are a class of stimuli-responsive polymers that undergo reversible shape-change in response to environmental changes. The shape change of LCEs can be programmed during processing by orienting the liquid crystal phase prior to crosslinking. The suite of processing techniques that has been developed has resulted in a myriad of LCEs with different shape-changing behavior and mechanical properties. Aligning LCEs via mechanical straining yields large uniaxial actuators capable of a moderate force output. Magnetic fields are utilized to control the alignment within LCE microstructures. The generation of out-of-plane deformations such as bending, twisting, and coning is enabled by surface alignment techniques within thin films. 4D printing processes have emerged that enable the fabrication of centimeter-scale, 3D LCE structures with a complex alignment. The processing technique also determines, to a large extent, the potential applications of the LCE. For example, 4D printing enables the fabrication of LCE actuators capable of replicating the forces generated by human muscles. Employing surface alignment techniques, LCE films can be designed for use as coatings or as substrates for stretchable electronics. The growth of new processes and strategies opens and strengthens the path for LCEs to be applicable within biomedical device designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric P Ambulo
- Department of Bioengineering, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas 75080, USA
| | | | | | | | - Philippe E Zimmern
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
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30
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Wan X, Luo L, Liu Y, Leng J. Direct Ink Writing Based 4D Printing of Materials and Their Applications. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2020; 7:2001000. [PMID: 32832355 PMCID: PMC7435246 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202001000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
4D printing has attracted academic interest in the recent years because it endows static printed structures with dynamic properties with the change of time. The shapes, functionalities, or properties of the 4D printed objects could alter under various stimuli such as heat, light, electric, and magnetic field. Briefly, 4D printing is the development of 3D printing with the fourth dimension of time. Among the fabrication techniques that have been employed for 4D printing, the direct ink writing technique shows superiority due to its open source for various types of materials. Herein, the state-of-the-art achievements about the topic of 4D printing through direct ink writing are summarized. The types of materials, printing strategies, actuated methods, and their potential applications are discussed in detail. To date, most efforts have been devoted to shape-shifting materials, including shape memory polymers, hydrogels, and liquid crystal elastomers, showing great prospects in areas ranging from the biomedical field to robotics. Finally, the current challenges and outlook toward 4D printing based on direct ink writing are also pointed out to leave open a significant space for future innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wan
- Center for Composite Materials and StructuresHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150080P. R. China
| | - Lan Luo
- Center for Composite Materials and StructuresHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150080P. R. China
| | - Yanju Liu
- Department of Astronautical Science and MechanicsHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150001P. R. China
| | - Jinsong Leng
- Center for Composite Materials and StructuresHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150080P. R. China
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31
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Lee Y, Choi S, Kang BG, Ahn SK. Effect of Isomeric Amine Chain Extenders and Crosslink Density on the Properties of Liquid Crystal Elastomers. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 13:E3094. [PMID: 32664370 PMCID: PMC7412247 DOI: 10.3390/ma13143094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Among the various types of shape changing materials, liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) have received significant attention as they can undergo programmed and reversible shape transformations. The molecular engineering of LCEs is the key to manipulating their phase transition, mechanical properties, and actuation performance. In this work, LCEs containing three different types of butyl groups (n-, iso-, and sec-butyl) in the side chain were synthesized, and the effect of isomeric amine chain extenders on the thermal, mechanical, and actuation properties of the resulting LCEs was investigated. Because of the considerably low reactivity of the sec-butyl group toward the diacrylate in the LC monomer, only a densely crosslinked LCE was synthesized. Most interestingly, the mechanical properties, actuation temperature, and blocking stress of the LCEs comprising isobutyl groups were higher than those of the LCEs comprising n-butyl groups. This difference was attributed to the presence of branches in the LCEs with isobutyl groups, which resulted in a tighter molecular packing and reduced the free volume. Our results suggest a facile and effective method for synthesizing LCEs with tailored mechanical and actuation properties by the choice of chain extenders, which may advance the development of soft actuators for a variety of applications in aerospace, medicine, and optics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoojin Lee
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (Y.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Subi Choi
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (Y.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Beom-Goo Kang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea
| | - Suk-kyun Ahn
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (Y.L.); (S.C.)
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32
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Li Y, Zhang Y, Goswami M, Vincent D, Wang L, Liu T, Li K, Keum JK, Gao Z, Ozcan S, Gluesenkamp KR, Rios O, Kessler MR. Liquid crystalline networks based on photo-initiated thiol-ene click chemistry. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:1760-1770. [PMID: 31859322 DOI: 10.1039/c9sm01818b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Photo-initiated thiol-ene click chemistry is used to develop shape memory liquid crystalline networks (LCNs). A biphenyl-based di-vinyl monomer is synthesized and cured with a di-thiol chain extender and a tetra-thiol crosslinker using UV light. The effects of photo-initiator concentration and UV light intensity on the curing behavior and liquid crystalline (LC) properties of the LCNs are investigated. The chemical composition is found to significantly influence the microstructure and the related thermomechanical properties of the LCNs. The structure-property relationship is further explored using molecular dynamics simulations, revealing that the introduction of the chain extender promotes the formation of an ordered smectic LC phase instead of agglomerated structures. The concentration of the chain extender affects the liquid crystallinity of the LCNs, resulting in distinct thermomechanical and shape memory properties. This class of LCNs exhibits fast curing rates, high conversion levels, and tailorable liquid crystallinity, making it a promising material system for advanced manufacturing, where complex and highly ordered structures can be produced with fast reaction kinetics and low energy consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhan Li
- Materials Science and Technology Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Rd, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA.
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Boothby JM, Van Volkenburg T, Le NQ, Ohiri K, Hagedon M, Xia Z. Effects of network structure on the mechanical and thermal responses of liquid crystal elastomers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1088/2399-7532/ab6d1e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Liu ZC, Zuo B, Lu HF, Wang M, Huang S, Chen XM, Lin BP, Yang H. A copper(i)-catalyzed azide–alkyne click chemistry approach towards multifunctional two-way shape-memory actuators. Polym Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0py00217h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Here we report a copper(i)-catalyzed azide–alkyne click chemistry approach towards the fabrication of main chain liquid crystal elastomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Cheng Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Molecular Ferroelectrics
- Institute of Advanced Materials
- Southeast University
| | - Bo Zuo
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Molecular Ferroelectrics
- Institute of Advanced Materials
- Southeast University
| | - Hai-Feng Lu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Molecular Ferroelectrics
- Institute of Advanced Materials
- Southeast University
| | - Meng Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Molecular Ferroelectrics
- Institute of Advanced Materials
- Southeast University
| | - Shuai Huang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Molecular Ferroelectrics
- Institute of Advanced Materials
- Southeast University
| | - Xu-Man Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Molecular Ferroelectrics
- Institute of Advanced Materials
- Southeast University
| | - Bao-Ping Lin
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Molecular Ferroelectrics
- Institute of Advanced Materials
- Southeast University
| | - Hong Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Molecular Ferroelectrics
- Institute of Advanced Materials
- Southeast University
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36
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Volpe RH, Mistry D, Patel VV, Patel RR, Yakacki CM. Dynamically Crystalizing Liquid-Crystal Elastomers for an Expandable Endplate-Conforming Interbody Fusion Cage. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e1901136. [PMID: 31805223 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201901136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is the leading cause of low back pain and radiating leg pain. DDD is commonly treated surgically using spinal fusion techniques, but in many cases failure occurs due to insufficient immobilization of the vertebrae during fusion. The fabrication and demonstration of a 3D-printed semi-crystalline liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) spinal fusion cage that addresses these challenges in particular subsidence are described. During implantation of the fusion cage, the LCE is rubbery and capable of deforming around and conforming to delicate anatomy. In the hours following implantation, the device crystallizes into a rigid, structural material with the modulus increasing tenfold from 8 to 80 MPa. In the crystalline regime, a 3D-printed prototype device is capable of enduring 1 million cycles of physiologic compressive loading with minimal creep-induced ratcheting. Effects of LCE molecular architecture on the rate and magnitude of modulus increase, material processability, and mechanical properties are explored. This fundamental characterization informs a proof-of-concept device-the first bulk 3D printed LCE demonstrated to date. Moreover, the novel deployment strategy represents an exciting new paradigm of spinal fusion cages, which addresses real clinical challenges in expandable interbody fusion cages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross H. Volpe
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Colorado Denver CO 80204 USA
| | - Devesh Mistry
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Colorado Denver CO 80204 USA
| | - Vikas V. Patel
- Department of Orthopedics University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Aurora CO 80045 USA
| | - Ravi R. Patel
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Colorado Denver CO 80204 USA
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Huang X, Ford M, Patterson ZJ, Zarepoor M, Pan C, Majidi C. Shape memory materials for electrically-powered soft machines. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:4539-4551. [DOI: 10.1039/d0tb00392a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
We review the recent progress of electrically-powered artificial muscles and soft machines using shape memory alloy and liquid crystal elastomer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Huang
- Soft Machines Lab
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Pittsburgh
- USA
| | - Michael Ford
- Soft Machines Lab
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Pittsburgh
- USA
| | | | - Masoud Zarepoor
- Soft Machines Lab
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Pittsburgh
- USA
- Mechanical Engineering
| | - Chengfeng Pan
- Soft Machines Lab
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Pittsburgh
- USA
| | - Carmel Majidi
- Soft Machines Lab
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Pittsburgh
- USA
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38
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Rastogi P, Njuguna J, Kandasubramanian B. Exploration of elastomeric and polymeric liquid crystals with photothermal actuation: A review. Eur Polym J 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2019.109287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Brannum MT, Auguste AD, Donovan BR, Godman NP, Matavulj VM, Steele AM, Korley LTJ, Wnek GE, White TJ. Deformation and Elastic Recovery of Acrylate-Based Liquid Crystalline Elastomers. Macromolecules 2019. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.9b01092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle T. Brannum
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, United States
- Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Anesia D. Auguste
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Brian R. Donovan
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Nicholas P. Godman
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Valentina M. Matavulj
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, United States
- Azimuth Corporation, Beavercreek, Ohio 45431, United States
| | - Aubrey M. Steele
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, United States
- Azimuth Corporation, Beavercreek, Ohio 45431, United States
| | - LaShanda T. J. Korley
- Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
| | - Gary E. Wnek
- Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Timothy J. White
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
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40
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Guo Y, Lee J, Son J, Ahn SK, Carrillo JMY, Sumpter BG. Decoding Liquid Crystal Oligomer Phase Transitions: Toward Molecularly Engineered Shape Changing Materials. Macromolecules 2019. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.9b01218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanhang Guo
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Jieun Lee
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Jinha Son
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Suk-kyun Ahn
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Jan-Michael Y. Carrillo
- Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
- Computational Sciences and Engineering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Bobby G. Sumpter
- Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
- Computational Sciences and Engineering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
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41
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Lu HF, Wang M, Chen XM, Lin BP, Yang H. Interpenetrating Liquid-Crystal Polyurethane/Polyacrylate Elastomer with Ultrastrong Mechanical Property. J Am Chem Soc 2019; 141:14364-14369. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b06757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Feng Lu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research, State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Institute of Advanced Materials, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Meng Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research, State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Institute of Advanced Materials, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Xu-Man Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research, State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Institute of Advanced Materials, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Bao-Ping Lin
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research, State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Institute of Advanced Materials, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Hong Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-medical Research, State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Institute of Advanced Materials, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
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42
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Tabrizi M, Ware TH, Shankar MR. Voxelated Molecular Patterning in Three-Dimensional Freeforms. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:28236-28245. [PMID: 31307189 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b04480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The ability to pattern material response, voxel by voxel, to direct actuation and manipulation in macroscopic structures can enable devices that utilize ambient stimuli to produce functional responses at length scales ranging from the micro- to the macroscopic. Fabricating liquid crystalline polymers (LCPs), where the molecular director is indexably defined in three-dimensional (3D) freeforms, can be a key enabler. Here, the combination of anisotropic magnetic susceptibility of the liquid crystalline monomers in a reorientable magnetic field and spatially selective photopolymerization using a digital micromirror device to independently define molecular orientation in light and/or heat-responsive multimaterial elements, which are additively incorporated into 3D freeforms, is exploited. This is shown to enable structural complexity across length scales in nontrivial geometries, including re-entrant shapes, which are responsive to either heat or light. A range of monomer compositions are optimized to include photoinitiators, light absorbers, and polymerization inhibitors to modulate the polymerization characteristics while simultaneously retaining the tailorability of the nematic alignment. The versatility of this framework is illustrated in an array of examples, including (i) thermomechanical generation of Gaussian-curved structures from flat geometries, (ii) light-responsive freeform topographies, and (iii) multiresponsive manipulators, which can be powered along independent axes using heat and/or light. The ability to integrate responses to multiple stimuli, where the principal directions of the mechanical output are arbitrarily tailored in a 3D freeform, enables new design spaces in soft robotics, micromechanical/fluidic systems, and optomechanical systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Tabrizi
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering , University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania 15261 , United States
| | - Taylor H Ware
- Department of Bioengineering , The University of Texas at Dallas , Richardson , Texas 75080 , United States
| | - M Ravi Shankar
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering , University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania 15261 , United States
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43
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Kim H, Gibson J, Maeng J, Saed MO, Pimentel K, Rihani RT, Pancrazio JJ, Georgakopoulos SV, Ware TH. Responsive, 3D Electronics Enabled by Liquid Crystal Elastomer Substrates. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:19506-19513. [PMID: 31070344 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b04189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Traditional electronic devices are rigid, planar, and mechanically static. The combination of traditional electronic materials and responsive polymer substrates is of significant interest to provide opportunities to replace conventional electronic devices with stretchable, 3D, and responsive electronics. Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are well suited to function as such dynamic substrates because of their large strain, reversible stimulus response that can be controlled through directed self-assembly of molecular order. Here, we discuss using LCEs as substrates for electronic devices that are flat during processing but then morph into controlled 3D structures. We design and demonstrate processes for a variety of electronic devices on LCEs including deformation-tolerant conducting traces and capacitors and cold temperature-responsive antennas. For example, patterning twisted nematic orientation within the substrate can be used to create helical electronic devices that stretch up to 100% with less than 2% change in resistance or capacitance. Moreover, we discuss self-morphing LCE antennas which can dynamically change the operating frequency from 2.7 GHz (room temperature) to 3.3 GHz (-65 °C). We envision applications for these 3D, responsive devices in wearable or implantable electronics and in cold-chain monitoring radio frequency identification sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Kim
- Department of Bioengineering , The University of Texas at Dallas , Richardson , Texas 75080 , United States
| | - John Gibson
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33174 , United States
| | - Jimin Maeng
- Department of Bioengineering , The University of Texas at Dallas , Richardson , Texas 75080 , United States
| | - Mohand O Saed
- Department of Bioengineering , The University of Texas at Dallas , Richardson , Texas 75080 , United States
| | - Krystine Pimentel
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33174 , United States
| | - Rashed T Rihani
- Department of Bioengineering , The University of Texas at Dallas , Richardson , Texas 75080 , United States
| | - Joseph J Pancrazio
- Department of Bioengineering , The University of Texas at Dallas , Richardson , Texas 75080 , United States
| | - Stavros V Georgakopoulos
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33174 , United States
| | - Taylor H Ware
- Department of Bioengineering , The University of Texas at Dallas , Richardson , Texas 75080 , United States
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44
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Donovan BR, Matavulj VM, Ahn SK, Guin T, White TJ. All-Optical Control of Shape. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2019; 31:e1805750. [PMID: 30417450 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201805750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Photoresponsive liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are a unique class of anisotropic materials capable of undergoing large-scale, macroscopic deformations when exposed to light. Here, surface-aligned, azobenzene-functionalized LCEs are prepared via a radical-mediated, thiol-acrylate chain transfer reaction. A long-lived, macroscopic shape deformation is realized in an LCE composed with an o-fluorinated azobenzene (oF-azo) monomer. Under UV irradiation, the oF-azo LCE exhibits a persistent shape deformation for >72 h. By contrasting the photomechanical response of the oF-azo LCE to analogs prepared from classical and m-fluorinated azobenzene derivatives, the origin of the persistent deformation is clearly attributed to the underlying influence of positional functionalization on the kinetics of cis→trans isomerization. Informed by these studies and enabled by the salient features of light-induced deformations, oF-azo LCEs are demonstrated to undergo all-optical control of shape deformation and shape restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian R Donovan
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, OH, 45433-7750, USA
- Azimuth Corporation, 4027 Colonel Glenn Highway, Beavercreek, OH, 45431, USA
| | - Valentina M Matavulj
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, OH, 45433-7750, USA
- Azimuth Corporation, 4027 Colonel Glenn Highway, Beavercreek, OH, 45431, USA
| | - Suk-Kyun Ahn
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, OH, 45433-7750, USA
- Azimuth Corporation, 4027 Colonel Glenn Highway, Beavercreek, OH, 45431, USA
| | - Tyler Guin
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, OH, 45433-7750, USA
- Azimuth Corporation, 4027 Colonel Glenn Highway, Beavercreek, OH, 45431, USA
| | - Timothy J White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 3415 Colorado Ave., Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
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45
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Abstract
Smart polymers that are capable of controlled shape transformations under external stimuli have attracted significant attention in the recent years due to the resemblance of this behavior to the biological intelligence observed in nature. In this review, we focus on the recent progress in the field of shape-morphing polymers, highlighting their most promising applications in the biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Kirillova
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science
- Edmund T. Pratt Jr. School of Engineering
- Duke University
- Durham
- USA
| | - Leonid Ionov
- Faculty of Engineering Science
- University of Bayreuth
- 95440 Bayreuth
- Germany
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46
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Dzhardimalieva GI, Uflyand IE. Synthetic Methodologies for Chelating Polymer Ligands: Recent Advances and Future Development. ChemistrySelect 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.201802516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gulzhian I. Dzhardimalieva
- Laboratory of MetallopolymersThe Institute of Problems of Chemical Physics RAS Academician Semenov avenue 1, Chernogolovka, Moscow Region 142432 Russian Federation
| | - Igor E. Uflyand
- Department of ChemistrySouthern Federal University B. Sadovaya str. 105/42, Rostov-on-Don 344006 Russian Federation
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47
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Nowak C, Escobedo FA. Effect of Block Immiscibility on Strain-Induced Microphase Segregation and Crystallization of Model Block Copolymer Elastomers. Macromolecules 2018. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.8b00965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Nowak
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Fernando A. Escobedo
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
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48
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Merkel DR, Traugutt NA, Visvanathan R, Yakacki CM, Frick CP. Thermomechanical properties of monodomain nematic main-chain liquid crystal elastomers. SOFT MATTER 2018; 14:6024-6036. [PMID: 29974115 DOI: 10.1039/c8sm01178h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Two-stage thiol-acrylate Michael addition reactions have proven useful in programming main-chain liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs). However, the influence of excess acrylate concentration, which is critical to monodomain programming, has not previously been examined with respect to thermomechanical properties in these two-stage LCEs. Previous studies of thiol-acrylate LCEs have focused on polydomain LCEs and/or variation of thiol crosslinking monomers or linear thiol monomers. This study guides the design of monodomain LCE actuators using the two-stage methodology by varying the concentration of mesogenic acrylate monomers from 2 mol% to 45 mol% in stoichiometric excess of thiol. The findings demonstrate a technique to tailor the isotropic transition temperature by 44 °C using identical starting monomers. In contrast to expectations, low amounts of excess acrylate showed excellent fixity (90.4 ± 2.9%), while high amounts of excess acrylate did not hinder actuation strain (87.3 ± 2.3%). Tensile stress-strain properties were influenced by excess acrylate. Linear elastic behavior was observed parallel to the director with modulus increasing from 1.4 to 6.1 MPa. The soft elastic plateau was observed perpendicular to the director with initial modulus and threshold stresses increasing from 0.6 MPa to 2.6 MPa and 14 kPa to 208 kPa, respectively. Overall, this study examines the influence of excess acrylate on mechanical properties of LCE actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Merkel
- University of Wyoming, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Laramie, WY, USA.
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49
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Hu X, Zhang D, Sheiko SS. Cooling-Triggered Shapeshifting Hydrogels with Multi-Shape Memory Performance. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1707461. [PMID: 29761565 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201707461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Heating-triggered shape actuation is vital for biomedical applications. The likely overheating and subsequent damage of surrounding tissue, however, severely limit its utilization in vivo. Herein, cooling-triggered shapeshifting is achieved by designing dual-network hydrogels that integrate a permanent network for elastic energy storage and a reversible network of hydrophobic crosslinks for "freezing" temporary shapes when heated. Upon cooling to 10 °C, the hydrophobic interactions weaken and allow recovery of the original shape, and thus programmable shape alterations. Further, multiple temporary shapes can be encoded independently at either different temperatures or different times during the isothermal network formation. The ability of these hydrogels to shapeshift at benign conditions may revolutionize biomedical implants and soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Hu
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-3290, USA
| | - Daixuan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-3290, USA
| | - Sergei S Sheiko
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-3290, USA
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50
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Adamiak L, Pendery J, Sun J, Iwabata K, Gianneschi NC, Abbott NL. Design Principles for Triggerable Polymeric Amphiphiles with Mesogenic Side Chains for Multiscale Responses with Liquid Crystals. Macromolecules 2018. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.7b02140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Adamiak
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California—San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0303, United States
| | - Joel Pendery
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Jiawei Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Kazuki Iwabata
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Nathan C. Gianneschi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California—San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0303, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Materials Science & Engineering, and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60091-3113, United States
| | - Nicholas L. Abbott
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
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