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Gui Q, Liu Z, Sun X, Guo G, Yuan Y, Zhang H. Design, Synthesis, and Performance of Photo-Responsive Liquid Crystal Polymers with Stepwise Deformation Capability. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024:e2400193. [PMID: 38837543 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202400193] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Photo-responsive liquid crystal polymers (LCPs) have potential application value in flexible robots, artificial muscles, and microfluidic control. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the development of LCPs. However, the preparation of LCPs with continuous and controllable stepwise deformation capabilities remains a challenge. In this study, visible photo-responsive cyanostilbene monomer, UV photo-responsive azobenzene monomer, and multiple hydrogen bond crosslinker are used to prepare photo-responsive LCPs capable of achieving continuously and controllable stepwise deformation. The comprehensive investigation of the multiple light response ability and photo-induced deformation properties of these copolymers is conducted. The results reveal that in the first stage of photo-induced deformation under 470 nm blue light irradiation, the deformation angle decreases with a reduction in cyanostilbene content in the copolymer component, ranging from 40° in AZ0-CS4 to 0° in AZ4-CS0. In the second stage of photo-induced deformation under 365 nm UV irradiation, the deformation angle increases with the increase of azobenzene content, ranging from 0° of AZ0-CS4 to 89.4° of AZ4-CS0. Importantly, the deformation between these two stages occurs as a continuous process, allowing for a direct transition from the first-stage to the second-stage deformation by switching the light source from 470 to 365 nm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Gui
- Key Laboratory of Polymeric Materials and Application Technology of Hunan Province, Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Functional Materials of Colleges and Universities of Hunan Province, College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, 411105, China
| | - Zui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Polymeric Materials and Application Technology of Hunan Province, Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Functional Materials of Colleges and Universities of Hunan Province, College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, 411105, China
| | - Xiangling Sun
- Key Laboratory of Polymeric Materials and Application Technology of Hunan Province, Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Functional Materials of Colleges and Universities of Hunan Province, College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, 411105, China
| | - Guangqiang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Polymeric Materials and Application Technology of Hunan Province, Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Functional Materials of Colleges and Universities of Hunan Province, College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, 411105, China
| | - Yongjie Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Polymeric Materials and Application Technology of Hunan Province, Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Functional Materials of Colleges and Universities of Hunan Province, College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, 411105, China
| | - Hailiang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Polymeric Materials and Application Technology of Hunan Province, Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Functional Materials of Colleges and Universities of Hunan Province, College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, 411105, China
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2
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Hu Z, Zhang Y, Jiang H, Lv JA. Bioinspired helical-artificial fibrous muscle structured tubular soft actuators. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh3350. [PMID: 37352358 PMCID: PMC10289666 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh3350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Biological tubular actuators show diverse deformations, which allow for sophisticated deformations with well-defined degrees of freedom (DOF). Nonetheless, synthetic active tubular soft actuators largely only exhibit few simple deformations with limited and undesignable DOF. Inspired by 3D fibrous architectures of tubular muscular hydrostats, we devised conceptually new helical-artificial fibrous muscle structured tubular soft actuators (HAFMS-TSAs) with locally tunable molecular orientations, materials, mechanics, and actuation via a modular fabrication platform using a programmable filament winding technique. Unprecedentedly, HAFMS-TSAs can be endowed with 11 different morphing modes through programmable regulation of their 3D helical fibrous architectures. We demonstrate a single "living" artificial plant rationally structured by HAFMS-TSAs exhibiting diverse photoresponsive behaviors that enable adaptive omnidirectional reorientation of its hierarchical 3D structures in the response to environmental irradiation, resembling morphing intelligence of living plants in reacting to changing environments. Our methodology would be significantly beneficial for developing sophisticated soft actuators with designable and tunable DOF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiming Hu
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanlin Zhang
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hanqing Jiang
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiu-an Lv
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
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3
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Najiya N, Popov N, Jampani VSR, Lagerwall JPF. Continuous Flow Microfluidic Production of Arbitrarily Long Tubular Liquid Crystal Elastomer Peristaltic Pump Actuators. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2204693. [PMID: 36494179 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202204693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
While liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are ideal materials for soft-robotic actuators, filling the role of muscle and shape-defining material simultaneously, it is non-trivial to give them ground state shapes beyond simple sheets or fibers. Here tubular LCE actuators scalable to arbitrary length are produced using a continuous three-phase coaxial flow microfluidic process. By pumping an oligomeric precursor solution between inner and outer aqueous phases in a cylindrically symmetric nested capillary set-up, and by reducing the interfacial tension to negligible values using surfactants adapted to each phase, the tubular liquid flow is stabilized over distances more than 200 times the diameter or 2000 times the thickness. In situ photocrosslinking of the middle phase turns it into an LCE network that is flow-aligned by the shear gradient over the phase. The reversible actuation of the tubes upon heating yields a reduction of the interior space, pumping out enclosed fluid, and the relaxation upon cooling leads to the fluid being sucked back in. By moving a local heat source along the tube, it acts as a peristaltic pump. It is proposed that the tubes could, pending functionalization for light-triggered actuation, function as active synthetic vasculature in biological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najiya Najiya
- Department of Physics and Materials Science, University of Luxembourg, 162a avenue de la faiencerie, Luxembourg city, 1511, Luxembourg
| | - Nikolay Popov
- Department of Physics and Materials Science, University of Luxembourg, 162a avenue de la faiencerie, Luxembourg city, 1511, Luxembourg
| | - Venkata Subba Rao Jampani
- Department of Physics and Materials Science, University of Luxembourg, 162a avenue de la faiencerie, Luxembourg city, 1511, Luxembourg
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, Ljubljana, 1000, Slovenia
| | - Jan P F Lagerwall
- Department of Physics and Materials Science, University of Luxembourg, 162a avenue de la faiencerie, Luxembourg city, 1511, Luxembourg
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Rogóż M, Dziekan Z, Dradrach K, Zmyślony M, Nałęcz-Jawecki P, Grabowski P, Fabjanowicz B, Podgórska M, Kudzia A, Wasylczyk P. From Light-Powered Motors, to Micro-Grippers, to Crawling Caterpillars, Snails and Beyond-Light-Responsive Oriented Polymers in Action. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 15:8214. [PMID: 36431699 PMCID: PMC9698796 DOI: 10.3390/ma15228214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
"How would you build a robot, the size of a bacteria, powered by light, that would swim towards the light source, escape from it, or could be controlled by means of different light colors, intensities or polarizations?" This was the question that Professor Diederik Wiersma asked PW on a sunny spring day in 2012, when they first met at LENS-the European Laboratory of Nonlinear Spectroscopy-in Sesto Fiorentino, just outside Florence in northern Italy. It was not just a vague question, as Prof. Wiersma, then the LENS director and leader of one of its research groups, already had an idea (and an ERC grant) about how to actually make such micro-robots, using a class of light-responsive oriented polymers, liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs), combined with the most advanced fabrication technique-two-photon 3D laser photolithography. Indeed, over the next few years, the LCE technology, successfully married with the so-called direct laser writing at LENS, resulted in a 60 micrometer long walker developed in Prof. Wiersma's group (as, surprisingly, walking at that stage proved to be easier than swimming). After completing his post-doc at LENS, PW returned to his home Faculty of Physics at the University of Warsaw, and started experimenting with LCE, both in micrometer and millimeter scales, in his newly established Photonic Nanostructure Facility. This paper is a review of how the ideas of using light-powered soft actuators in micromechanics and micro-robotics have been evolving in Warsaw over the last decade and what the outcomes have been so far.
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Li Y, Teixeira Y, Parlato G, Grace J, Wang F, Huey BD, Wang X. Three-dimensional thermochromic liquid crystal elastomer structures with reversible shape-morphing and color-changing capabilities for soft robotics. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:6857-6867. [PMID: 36043504 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm00876a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Functional structures with reversible shape-morphing and color-changing capabilities are promising for applications including soft robotics and biomimetic camouflage devices. Despite extensive studies, there are few reports on achieving both reversible shape-switching and color-changing capabilities within one structure. Here, we report a facile and versatile strategy to realize such capabilities via spatially programmed liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) structures incorporated with thermochromic dyes. By coupling the shape-changing behavior of LCEs resulting from the nematic-to-isotropic transition of liquid crystals with the color-changing thermochromic dyes, 3D thermochromic LCE structures change their shapes and colors simultaneously, which are controlled by the nematic-isotropic transition temperature of LCEs and the critical color-changing temperature of dyes, respectively. Demonstrations, including the simulated blooming process of a resembled flower, the camouflage behavior of a "butterfly"/"chameleon" robot in response to environmental changes, and the underwater camouflage of an "octopus" robot, highlight the reliability of this strategy. Furthermore, integrating micro-ferromagnetic particles into the "octopus" thermochromic LCE robot allows it to respond to thermal-magnetic dual stimuli for "adaptive" motion and diverse biomimetic motion modes, including swimming, rolling, rotating, and crawling, accompanied by color-changing behaviors for camouflage. The reversibly reconfigurable and color-changing thermochromic LCE structures are promising for applications including soft camouflage robots and multifunctional biomimetic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Yasmin Teixeira
- Polymer Program, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Gina Parlato
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Jaclyn Grace
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Bryan D Huey
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Xueju Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
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6
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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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7
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Cheng M, Zeng H, Li Y, Liu J, Luo D, Priimagi A, Liu YJ. Light-Fueled Polymer Film Capable of Directional Crawling, Friction-Controlled Climbing, and Self-Sustained Motion on a Human Hair. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2103090. [PMID: 34713627 PMCID: PMC8728837 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202103090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent efforts in stimuli-responsive soft materials have enabled wirelessly controlled actuation with increasing degrees of freedom, yielding miniature robots capable of various locomotion in open environments such as on a plane or inside fluids. However, grand challenges remain in harnessing photomechanical deformation to induce locomotion and control of friction during the movement, especially for robotic actuations within constrained spaces. Here, the authors report a centimeter-long polymer strip made of a liquid crystal network that is capable of versatile light-fueled motions along a human hair. The soft polymer robot can translocate directionally upon temporally modulated excitation and climb vertically through friction control with light. A self-oscillating strip is demonstrated to continuously translocate along the hair upon a constant light stimulus, and its gaiting is associated to the smoothness of the hair surface. The results offer new insights to small-scale photo-actuator, mechanical control, and automation in soft micro robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Cheng
- Department of Electrical and Electronic EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Hao Zeng
- Smart Photonic MaterialsFaculty of Engineering and Natural SciencesTampere UniversityP.O. Box 541TampereFI‐33101Finland
| | - Yifei Li
- Department of Electrical and Electronic EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Jianxun Liu
- Department of Electrical and Electronic EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Electrical and Electronic EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Arri Priimagi
- Smart Photonic MaterialsFaculty of Engineering and Natural SciencesTampere UniversityP.O. Box 541TampereFI‐33101Finland
| | - Yan Jun Liu
- Department of Electrical and Electronic EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
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8
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Zhang YS, Wang ZQ, Lin JD, Yang PC, Lee CR. Light-Switching Surface Wettability of Chiral Liquid Crystal Networks by Dynamic Change in Nanoscale Topography. Macromol Rapid Commun 2021; 43:e2100736. [PMID: 34837422 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202100736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Nano- and microscale morphology endows surfaces that play conspicuous roles in natural or artificial objects with unique functions. Surfaces with dynamic regulating features capable of switching the structures, patterns, and even dimensions of their surface profiles can control friction and wettability, thus having potential applications in antibacterial, haptics, and fluid dynamics. Here, a freestanding film with light-switchable surface based on cholesteric liquid crystal networks is presented to translate 2D flat plane into a 3D nanometer-scale topography. The wettability of the interface can be controlled by hiding or revealing the geometrical features of the surfaces with light. This reversible dynamic actuation is obtained through the order parameter change of the periodic cholesteric organization under a photoalignment procedure and lithography-free mode. Complex tailored structures can be used to encrypt tactile information and improve wettability by predesigning the orientation distribution of liquid crystal director. This rapid switching nanoprecision smart surface provides a novel platform for artificial skin, optics, and functional coatings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Song Zhang
- Department of Photonics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
| | - Zhi-Qun Wang
- Department of Photonics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
| | - Jia-De Lin
- Department of Opto-Electronic Engineering, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, 974, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chih Yang
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, 320, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Rong Lee
- Department of Photonics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
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Sun D, Zhang J, Li H, Shi Z, Meng Q, Liu S, Chen J, Liu X. Toward Application of Liquid Crystalline Elastomer for Smart Robotics: State of the Art and Challenges. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:1889. [PMID: 34204168 PMCID: PMC8201031 DOI: 10.3390/polym13111889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) are lightly crosslinked polymers that combine liquid crystalline order and rubber elasticity. Owing to their unique anisotropic behavior and reversible shape responses to external stimulation (temperature, light, etc.), LCEs have emerged as preferred candidates for actuators, artificial muscles, sensors, smart robots, or other intelligent devices. Herein, we discuss the basic action, control mechanisms, phase transitions, and the structure-property correlation of LCEs; this review provides a comprehensive overview of LCEs for applications in actuators and other smart devices. Furthermore, the synthesis and processing of liquid crystal elastomer are briefly discussed, and the current challenges and future opportunities are prospected. With all recent progress pertaining to material design, sophisticated manipulation, and advanced applications presented, a vision for the application of LCEs in the next generation smart robots or automatic action systems is outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Sun
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Mold of Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory of Advanced Nylon Materials and Application, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (D.S.); (Z.S.); (Q.M.); (J.C.); (X.L.)
| | - Juzhong Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Mold of Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory of Advanced Nylon Materials and Application, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (D.S.); (Z.S.); (Q.M.); (J.C.); (X.L.)
| | - Hongpeng Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China;
| | - Zhengya Shi
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Mold of Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory of Advanced Nylon Materials and Application, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (D.S.); (Z.S.); (Q.M.); (J.C.); (X.L.)
| | - Qi Meng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Mold of Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory of Advanced Nylon Materials and Application, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (D.S.); (Z.S.); (Q.M.); (J.C.); (X.L.)
| | - Shuiren Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Mold of Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory of Advanced Nylon Materials and Application, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (D.S.); (Z.S.); (Q.M.); (J.C.); (X.L.)
| | - Jinzhou Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Mold of Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory of Advanced Nylon Materials and Application, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (D.S.); (Z.S.); (Q.M.); (J.C.); (X.L.)
| | - Xuying Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Mold of Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory of Advanced Nylon Materials and Application, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (D.S.); (Z.S.); (Q.M.); (J.C.); (X.L.)
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10
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Soltani M, Raahemifar K, Nokhosteen A, Kashkooli FM, Zoudani EL. Numerical Methods in Studies of Liquid Crystal Elastomers. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:1650. [PMID: 34069440 PMCID: PMC8159147 DOI: 10.3390/polym13101650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are a type of material with specific features of polymers and of liquid crystals. They exhibit interesting behaviors, i.e., they are able to change their physical properties when met with external stimuli, including heat, light, electric, and magnetic fields. This behavior makes LCEs a suitable candidate for a variety of applications, including, but not limited to, artificial muscles, optical devices, microscopy and imaging systems, biosensor devices, and optimization of solar energy collectors. Due to the wide range of applicability, numerical models are needed not only to further our understanding of the underlining mechanics governing LCE behavior, but also to enable the predictive modeling of their behavior under different circumstances for different applications. Given that several mainstream methods are used for LCE modeling, viz. finite element method, Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics, and the growing interest and reliance on computer modeling for predicting the opto-mechanical behavior of complex structures in real world applications, there is a need to gain a better understanding regarding their strengths and weaknesses so that the best method can be utilized for the specific application at hand. Therefore, this investigation aims to not only to present a multitude of examples on numerical studies conducted on LCEs, but also attempts at offering a concise categorization of different methods based on the desired application to act as a guide for current and future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madjid Soltani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K.N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 19991-43344, Iran; (F.M.K.); (E.L.Z.)
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Centre for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (CBB), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Science, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave. W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
- Advanced Bioengineering Initiative Center, Computational Medicine Center, K.N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 19991-43344, Iran
| | - Kaamran Raahemifar
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Science, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave. W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
- College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Program, Penn State University, State College, Pennsylvania, PA 16801, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave. W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Arman Nokhosteen
- Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA;
| | - Farshad Moradi Kashkooli
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K.N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 19991-43344, Iran; (F.M.K.); (E.L.Z.)
| | - Elham L. Zoudani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K.N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 19991-43344, Iran; (F.M.K.); (E.L.Z.)
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11
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Li Y, Luo C, Yu K, Wang X. Remotely Controlled, Reversible, On-Demand Assembly and Reconfiguration of 3D Mesostructures via Liquid Crystal Elastomer Platforms. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:8929-8939. [PMID: 33577299 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c21371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) mesostructures are gaining rapidly growing interest due to their potential applications in a broad range of areas. Despite intensive studies, remotely controlled, reversible, on-demand assembly and reconfiguration of 3D mesostructures, which are desired for many applications, including robotics, minimally invasive biomedical devices, and deployable systems, remain a challenge. Here, we introduce a facile strategy to utilize liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs), a soft polymer capable of large, reversible shape changes, as a platform for reversible assembly and programming of 3D mesostructures via compressive buckling of two-dimensional (2D) precursors in a remote and on-demand fashion. The highly stretchable, reversible shape-switching behavior of the LCE substrate, resulting from the soft elasticity of the material and the reversible nematic-isotropic transition of liquid crystal (LC) molecules upon remote thermal stimuli, provides deterministic thermal-mechanical control over the reversible assembly and reconfiguration processes. Demonstrations include experimental results and finite element simulations of 3D mesostructures with diverse geometries and material compositions, showing the versatility and reliability of the approach. Furthermore, a reconfigurable light-emitting system is assembled and morphed between its "on" and "off" status via the LCE platform. These results provide many exciting opportunities for areas from remotely programmable 3D mesostructures to tunable electronic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Chaoqian Luo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado 80217, United States
| | - Kai Yu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado 80217, United States
| | - Xueju Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
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12
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Zmyślony M, Dradrach K, Haberko J, Nałęcz-Jawecki P, Rogóż M, Wasylczyk P. Optical Pliers: Micrometer-Scale, Light-Driven Tools Grown on Optical Fibers. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e2002779. [PMID: 32627876 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202002779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The ability to grip and handle small objects, from sub-millimeter electronic components to single-micrometer living cells, is vital for numerous ever-shrinking technologies. Mechanical grippers, powered by electric, pneumatic, hydraulic or piezoelectric servos, are well suited for the job at larger scales, but their complexity and need for force transmission prevent their miniaturization and remote control in tight spaces. Using liquid crystal elastomer microstructures that can change shape quickly and reversibly in response to light, a light-powered gripping tool-optical pliers-is built by growing two bending jaws on the tips of optical fibers. By delivering UV light to trigger polymerization via a micrometer-size fiber core, structures of similar size can be made without resorting to any microfabrication technology, such as laser photolithography. The tool is operated using visible light energy supplied through the fibers, with no force transmission. The elastomer growth technique readily offers micrometer-scale, remotely controlled functional structures with different modes of actuation as building blocks for the microtoolbox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Zmyślony
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Klaudia Dradrach
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Jakub Haberko
- Faculty of Physics and Applied Computer Science, AGH University of Science and Technology, Al. Mickiewicza 30, Kraków, 30-059, Poland
| | - Paweł Nałęcz-Jawecki
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Mikołaj Rogóż
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Piotr Wasylczyk
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
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13
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Yu L, Si P, Bauman L, Zhao B. Synergetic Combination of Interfacial Engineering and Shape-Changing Modulation for Biomimetic Soft Robotic Devices. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2020; 36:3279-3291. [PMID: 32125871 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.9b03773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Robotics is a frontal interdisciplinary subject across the fields of mechanical engineering, chemical and materials engineering, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology. Robotic devices with a variety of frameworks, functionalities, and actuation modes have been developed and employed in the manufacture of advanced materials and devices with improved efficiency and automation. In recent years, soft robots have attracted a significant amount of interest among scientific researchers and technological engineers because they can offer the desired safety, adaptability, sensibility, and dexterity that conventional robotics cannot deliver. To date, emulating living creatures in nature has been a promising approach to design soft robots. For living creatures, both body deformation and their surface characteristic are essential for them to function in dynamic ecological environments. Body deformation offers athletic ability while surface characteristics provide extraordinary adaptable interactions with the environment. In this article, we discuss the recent progress of emulating the body deformation of living creatures such as shrinking/expanding, bending, and twisting and programmable deformations based on the manipulation of shape-changing behaviors of liquid-crystal polymeric materials (LCPs) and the interfacial technologies to build up various microstructures similar to the interface of living creatures. We further review the pioneering work that integrates interfacial engineering and the shape-changing modulation of LCPs to develop biomimetic soft robotic devices. We also provide an outlook for opportunities and challenges in the design and fabrication of advanced biomimetic soft robots based on the synergetic combination of interfacial engineering and shape-changing modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, Institute for Polymer Research, Centre of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 200 University Avenue, West Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials, Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Pengxiang Si
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, Institute for Polymer Research, Centre of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 200 University Avenue, West Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Lukas Bauman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, Institute for Polymer Research, Centre of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 200 University Avenue, West Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Boxin Zhao
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, Institute for Polymer Research, Centre of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 200 University Avenue, West Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
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14
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Dradrach K, Rogóż M, Grabowski P, Xuan C, Węgłowski R, Konieczkowska J, Schab-Balcerzak E, Piecek W, Wasylczyk P. Traveling Wave Rotary Micromotor Based on a Photomechanical Response in Liquid Crystal Polymer Networks. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:8681-8686. [PMID: 31994378 PMCID: PMC7497615 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b20309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The photomechanical response of liquid crystal polymer networks (LCNs) can be used to directly convert light energy into different forms of mechanical energy. In this study, we demonstrate how a traveling deformation, induced in a liquid crystal polymer ring by a spatially modulated laser beam, can be used to drive the ring (the rotor) to rotate around a stationary element (the stator), thus forming a light-powered micromotor. The photomechanical response of the polymer film is modeled numerically, different LCN molecular configurations are studied, and the performance of a 5.5 mm diameter motor is characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Dradrach
- Photonic Nanostructure
Facility, Faculty of Physics, University
of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura
5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mikołaj Rogóż
- Photonic Nanostructure
Facility, Faculty of Physics, University
of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura
5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Przemysław Grabowski
- Photonic Nanostructure
Facility, Faculty of Physics, University
of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura
5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Chen Xuan
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, 111 Ren’ai Rd, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Rafał Węgłowski
- Institute of Applied Physics, Military University of Technology, ul. Kaliskiego 2, 01-476 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jolanta Konieczkowska
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. M. Curie-Skłodowskiej 34, 41-819 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Ewa Schab-Balcerzak
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. M. Curie-Skłodowskiej 34, 41-819 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Wiktor Piecek
- Institute of Applied Physics, Military University of Technology, ul. Kaliskiego 2, 01-476 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Wasylczyk
- Photonic Nanostructure
Facility, Faculty of Physics, University
of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura
5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
- E-mail:
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15
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Liu L, Broer DJ, Onck PR. Travelling waves on photo-switchable patterned liquid crystal polymer films directed by rotating polarized light. SOFT MATTER 2019; 15:8040-8050. [PMID: 31595940 DOI: 10.1039/c9sm01594a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Nature employs travelling waves to generate propulsion of fluids, cells and organisms. This has inspired the development of responsive material systems based on different external triggers. Especially light-actuation is suitable because of its remote control and scalability, but often complex, moving light sources are required. Here, we developed a method that only requires flood exposure by rotating the linear polarization of light to generate propagating surface waves on azobenzene-modified liquid crystalline polymer films. We built a photomechanical computational model that accounts for the attenuation of polarized light and trans-to-cis isomerization of azobenzene. A non-uniform in-plane distribution of the liquid crystal molecules allows for the generation of travelling surface waves whose amplitude, speed and direction can be controlled through the intensity, rotation direction and rotation speed of the linear polarization of a light source. Our method opens new avenues for motion control based on light-responsive topographical transformations for application in microfluidic lab-on-chip systems and soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Liu
- Micromechanics of Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Dirk J Broer
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry & Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Technology University of Eindhoven, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick R Onck
- Micromechanics of Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.
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16
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Rogóż M, Dradrach K, Xuan C, Wasylczyk P. A Millimeter-Scale Snail Robot Based on a Light-Powered Liquid Crystal Elastomer Continuous Actuator. Macromol Rapid Commun 2019; 40:e1900279. [PMID: 31348563 DOI: 10.1002/marc.201900279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Crawling by means of the traveling deformation of a soft body is a widespread mode of locomotion in nature-animals across scales, from microscopic nematodes to earthworms to gastropods, use it to move around challenging terrestrial environments. Snails, in particular, use mucus-a slippery, aqueous secretion-to enhance the interaction between their ventral foot and the contact surface. In this study, a millimeter-scale soft crawling robot is demonstrated that uses a similar mechanism to move efficiently in a variety of configurations: on horizontal, vertical, as well as upside-down surfaces; on smooth and rough surfaces; and through obstacles comparable in size to its dimensions. The traveling deformation of the robot soft body is generated via a local light-induced phase transition in a liquid crystal elastomer and resembles the pedal waves of terrestrial gastropods. This work offers a new approach to micro-engineering with smart materials as well as a tool to better understand this mode of locomotion in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikołaj Rogóż
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Klaudia Dradrach
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Chen Xuan
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.,Department of Mathematical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, 111 Ren'ai Rd, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Piotr Wasylczyk
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
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17
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Zeng H, Wasylczyk P, Wiersma DS, Priimagi A. Light Robots: Bridging the Gap between Microrobotics and Photomechanics in Soft Materials. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1703554. [PMID: 29067734 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201703554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
For decades, roboticists have focused their efforts on rigid systems that enable programmable, automated action, and sophisticated control with maximal movement precision and speed. Meanwhile, material scientists have sought compounds and fabrication strategies to devise polymeric actuators that are small, soft, adaptive, and stimuli-responsive. Merging these two fields has given birth to a new class of devices-soft microrobots that, by combining concepts from microrobotics and stimuli-responsive materials research, provide several advantages in a miniature form: external, remotely controllable power supply, adaptive motion, and human-friendly interaction, with device design and action often inspired by biological systems. Herein, recent progress in soft microrobotics is highlighted based on light-responsive liquid-crystal elastomers and polymer networks, focusing on photomobile devices such as walkers, swimmers, and mechanical oscillators, which may ultimately lead to flying microrobots. Finally, self-regulated actuation is proposed as a new pathway toward fully autonomous, intelligent light robots of the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zeng
- Laboratory of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Tampere University of Technology, P.O. Box 541, FI, 33101, Tampere, Finland
| | - Piotr Wasylczyk
- Photonic Nanostructure Facility, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Diederik S Wiersma
- European Laboratory for Non Linear Spectroscopy (LENS), University of Florence and INRIM, via Nello Carrara 1, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Arri Priimagi
- Laboratory of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Tampere University of Technology, P.O. Box 541, FI, 33101, Tampere, Finland
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18
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Qian X, Chen Q, Yang Y, Xu Y, Li Z, Wang Z, Wu Y, Wei Y, Ji Y. Untethered Recyclable Tubular Actuators with Versatile Locomotion for Soft Continuum Robots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1801103. [PMID: 29806242 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201801103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive materials offer a distinguished platform to build tether-free compact soft robots, which can combine sensing and actuation without a linked power supply. In the past, tubular soft robots have to be made by multiple components with various internal channels or complex cavities assembled together. Moreover, robust processing, complex locomotion, simple structure, and easy recyclability represent major challenges in this area. Here, it is shown that those challenges can be tackled by liquid crystalline elastomers with allyl sulfide functional groups. The light-controlled exchange reaction between allyl sulfide groups allows flexible processing of tubular soft robots/actuators, which does not need any assisting materials. Complex locomotion demonstrated here includes reversible simultaneous bending and elongation; reversible diameter expansion; and omnidirectional bending via remote infrared light control. Different modes of actuation can be programmed into the same tube without the routine assembly of multiple tubes as used in the past. In addition, the exchange reaction also makes it possible to use the same single tube repeatedly to perform different functions by erasing and reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Qian
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qiaomei Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yang Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yanshuang Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhen Li
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhenhua Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yahe Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yen Wei
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Nanotechnology and Institute of Biomedical Technology, Chung-Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li, 32023, Taiwan, China
| | - Yan Ji
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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19
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Yu N, Wang S, Liu Y, Xue P, Ge P, Nan J, Ye S, Liu W, Zhang J, Yang B. Thermal-Responsive Anisotropic Wetting Microstructures for Manipulation of Fluids in Microfluidics. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2017; 33:494-502. [PMID: 27998059 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.6b03896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
We show morphology-patterned stripes modified by thermal-responsive polymer for smartly guiding flow motion of fluid in chips. With a two-step modification process, we fabricated PNIPAAm-modified Si stripes on silicon slides, which were employed as substrates for fluid manipulation in microchannels. When the system temperature switches between above and below the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of PNIPAAm, the wettability of the substrates also switches between strong anisotropy and weak anisotropy, which resulted in anisotropic (even unidirectional) flow and isotropic flow behavior of liquid in microchannels. The thermal-responsive flow motion of fluid in the chip is influenced by the applied pressure, the thickness of PNIPAAm, and dimension of the microchannels. Moreover, we measured the feasible applied pressure scopes under different structure factors. Because of the excellent reversibility and quick switching speed, the chip could be used as a thermal-responsive microvalve. Through tuning the system temperature and adding the assistant gas, we realized successive "valve" function. We believe that the practical and simple chip could be widely utilized in medical detection, immunodetection, protein analysis, and cell cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nianzuo Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
| | - Shuli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
| | - Yongshun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Optics, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics (CIOMP), Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 130033, P. R. China
| | - Peihong Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
| | - Peng Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
| | - Jingjie Nan
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
| | - Shunsheng Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
| | - Wendong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
| | - Junhu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
| | - Bai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University , Jilin 130012, P. R. China
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