1
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Liu H, Wang Z, Xin H, Liu J, Wang Q, Pang B, Zhang K. Polysaccharide Nanocrystals-Based Chiral Nematic Structures: From Self-Assembly Mechanisms, Regulation, to Applications. ACS NANO 2024; 18:22675-22708. [PMID: 39137301 PMCID: PMC11363144 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c03130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Chiral architectures, one of the key structural features of natural systems ranging from the nanoscale to macroscale, are an infinite source of inspiration for functional materials. Researchers have been, and still are, strongly pursuing the goal of constructing such structures with renewable and sustainable building blocks via simple and efficient strategies. With the merits of high sustainability, renewability, and the ability to self-assemble into chiral nematic structures in aqueous suspensions that can be preserved in the solid state, polysaccharide nanocrystals (PNs) including cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and chitin nanocrystals (ChNCs) offer opportunities to reach the target. We herein provide a comprehensive review that focuses on the development of CNCs and ChNCs for the use in advanced functional materials. First, the introduction of CNCs and ChNCs, and cellulose- and chitin-formed chiral nematic organizations in the natural world, are given. Then, the self-assembly process of such PNs and the factors influencing this process are comprehensively discussed. After that, we showcased the emerging applications of the self-assembled chiral nematic structures of CNCs and ChNCs. Finally, this review concludes with perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Liu
- Biofuels
Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, School
of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- National
Forestry and Grassland Administration Key Laboratory of Plant Fiber
Functional Materials, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Zhihao Wang
- Biofuels
Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, School
of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Haowei Xin
- Biofuels
Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, School
of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Biofuels
Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, School
of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Biofuels
Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, School
of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Bo Pang
- Department
of Food Science and Technology, National
University of Singapore, 2 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117542, Singapore
- Department
of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm 10691, Sweden
| | - Kai Zhang
- Sustainable
Materials and Chemistry, Department of Wood Technology and Wood-Based
Composites, University of Göttingen, Göttingen 37077, Germany
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2
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Jia S, Yang B, Du J, Xie Y, Yu L, Zhang Y, Tao T, Tang W, Gong J. Uncovering the Recent Progress of CNC-Derived Chirality Nanomaterials: Structure and Functions. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2401664. [PMID: 38651220 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202401664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Cellulose nanocrystal (CNC), as a renewable resource, with excellent mechanical performance, low thermal expansion coefficient, and unique optical performance, is becoming a novel candidate for the development of smart material. Herein, the recent progress of CNC-based chirality nanomaterials is uncovered, mainly covering structure regulations and function design. Undergoing a simple evaporation process, the cellulose nanorods can spontaneously assemble into chiral nematic films, accompanied by a vivid structural color. Various film structure-controlling strategies, including assembly means, physical modulation, additive engineering, surface modification, geometric structure regulation, and external field optimization, are summarized in this work. The intrinsic correlation between structure and performance is emphasized. Next, the applications of CNC-based nanomaterials is systematically reviewed. Layer-by-layer stacking structure and unique optical activity endow the nanomaterials with wide applications in the mineralization, bone regeneration, and synthesis of mesoporous materials. Besides, the vivid structural color broadens the functions in anti-counterfeiting engineering, synthesis of the shape-memory and self-healing materials. Finally, the challenges for the CNC-based nanomaterials are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengzhe Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Bingbing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Jing Du
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Molecular Aggregation Science, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Optoelectronic Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Yujiang Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Liuyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Tiantian Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Weiwei Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry Science and Engineering, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Junbo Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry Science and Engineering, Tianjin, 300072, China
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3
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Frka-Petesic B, Parton TG, Honorato-Rios C, Narkevicius A, Ballu K, Shen Q, Lu Z, Ogawa Y, Haataja JS, Droguet BE, Parker RM, Vignolini S. Structural Color from Cellulose Nanocrystals or Chitin Nanocrystals: Self-Assembly, Optics, and Applications. Chem Rev 2023; 123:12595-12756. [PMID: 38011110 PMCID: PMC10729353 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Widespread concerns over the impact of human activity on the environment have resulted in a desire to replace artificial functional materials with naturally derived alternatives. As such, polysaccharides are drawing increasing attention due to offering a renewable, biodegradable, and biocompatible feedstock for functional nanomaterials. In particular, nanocrystals of cellulose and chitin have emerged as versatile and sustainable building blocks for diverse applications, ranging from mechanical reinforcement to structural coloration. Much of this interest arises from the tendency of these colloidally stable nanoparticles to self-organize in water into a lyotropic cholesteric liquid crystal, which can be readily manipulated in terms of its periodicity, structure, and geometry. Importantly, this helicoidal ordering can be retained into the solid-state, offering an accessible route to complex nanostructured films, coatings, and particles. In this review, the process of forming iridescent, structurally colored films from suspensions of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) is summarized and the mechanisms underlying the chemical and physical phenomena at each stage in the process explored. Analogy is then drawn with chitin nanocrystals (ChNCs), allowing for key differences to be critically assessed and strategies toward structural coloration to be presented. Importantly, the progress toward translating this technology from academia to industry is summarized, with unresolved scientific and technical questions put forward as challenges to the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Frka-Petesic
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
- International
Institute for Sustainability with Knotted Chiral Meta Matter (WPI-SKCM), Hiroshima University, 1-3-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan
| | - Thomas G. Parton
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Camila Honorato-Rios
- Department
of Sustainable and Bio-inspired Materials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Aurimas Narkevicius
- B
CUBE − Center for Molecular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kevin Ballu
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Qingchen Shen
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Zihao Lu
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Yu Ogawa
- CERMAV-CNRS,
CS40700, 38041 Grenoble cedex 9, France
| | - Johannes S. Haataja
- Department
of Applied Physics, Aalto University School
of Science, P.O. Box
15100, Aalto, Espoo FI-00076, Finland
| | - Benjamin E. Droguet
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Richard M. Parker
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Silvia Vignolini
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
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4
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Ding J, Ma H, Xiao X, Li Q, Liu K, Zhang X. Flexible Torsional Photoactuators Based on MXene-Carbon Nanotube-Paraffin Wax Films. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:57171-57179. [PMID: 36515685 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c16838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
A flexible actuator, which can convert external stimuli to mechanical motion, is an essential component of every soft robot and determines its performance. As a novel two-dimensional material, MXene has been used to fabricate flexible actuators due to its excellent physical properties. Although MXene-based actuators exhibit excellent actuation performance, their bending deformation is solely due to the in-plane isotropy of the MXene film, and an MXene torsional actuator has not been reported. This study presents a flexible torsional actuator based on an MXene-carbon nanotube (CNT)-paraffin wax (PW) film. In this actuator, the MXene thin film acts as a light absorption layer with wavelength selectivity, superaligned CNT provides structural anisotropy for the composite film, and PW acts as the active layer. The chirality and helical structure of the actuator could be tuned by the orientation of the CNT film. Such an actuator delivers excellent actuation performance, including high work density (∼1.2 J/cm3), low triggering power (77 mW/cm2), high rotational speed (320°/s), long lifetime (30,000 cycles), and wavelength selectivity. Inspired by vines, we used the torsional actuator as a spiral grabber, which lifted an object that weighs 20 times more than the actuator. The high-performance torsional actuator would be potentially used as a noncontact sensor, rotary motor, and grabbing tool in the soft robot system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ding
- Institute of Information Photonics Technology and Faculty of Sciences, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing100124, China
| | - He Ma
- Institute of Information Photonics Technology and Faculty of Sciences, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing100124, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Institute of Information Photonics Technology and Faculty of Sciences, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing100124, China
| | - Qingwei Li
- Intelligent Robotics Institute, School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
| | - Kai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, School of Material Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing100084, China
| | - Xinping Zhang
- Institute of Information Photonics Technology and Faculty of Sciences, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing100124, China
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5
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Li Q, Jiao Y. Ultrafast Photothermal Actuators with a Large Helical Curvature Based on Ultrathin GO and Biaxially Oriented PE Films. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:55828-55838. [PMID: 36484521 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c18478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In nature, there are some amazing superfast actuations (Venus flytrap) and large-curvature helical deformations (the awn of Erodium). Although many bionic actuators have been made (electrothermal, hygroscopic, photoinduced), most of their actuations are slow and small, not comparable to the wonderful ones in nature. Here, we report an ultrafast photothermal actuator with large-curvature curling based on an ultrathin graphene oxide (GO) and biaxially oriented polyethylene (BOPE) bilayer film (thickness ∼11 μm). By virtue of the fast temperature changing rate (peak: 900 °C s-1 during infrared heating and -1200 °C s-1 during cooling) and the great difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion of GO and BOPE layers, the actuator deforms rapidly and greatly. The maximum bending speed and curvature can reach 5300° s-1 and 22 cm-1, respectively, which are comparable to those of wonderful natural actuators and far exceed the performances of the reported artificial actuators. Different from ordinary helical actuators made of uniaxial anisotropic materials, our actuator is based on a typical biaxial anisotropic material of BOPE. However, the morphing behaviors of this type of actuator have not been reported before. So for the first time, we systematically studied this problem through experiments and simulations using the GO-BOPE actuator as a prototype and have drawn clear conclusions. In addition, functional GO-BOPE actuators capable of winding around and manipulating tiny objects were also designed and developed. We think this ultrafast large-curvature photothermal actuator will have wide application prospects in bionic actuations and dexterous robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingwei Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
| | - Yan Jiao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
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6
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Zhang P, de Haan LT, Debije MG, Schenning APHJ. Liquid crystal-based structural color actuators. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2022; 11:248. [PMID: 35931672 PMCID: PMC9356073 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-022-00937-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Animals can modify their body shape and/or color for protection, camouflage and communication. This adaptability has inspired fabrication of actuators with structural color changes to endow soft robots with additional functionalities. Using liquid crystal-based materials for actuators with structural color changes is a promising approach. In this review, we discuss the current state of liquid crystal-based actuators with structural color changes and the potential applications of these structural color actuators in soft robotic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Zhang
- Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Laurens T de Haan
- Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- SCNU-TUE Joint Lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Michael G Debije
- Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Albert P H J Schenning
- Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- SCNU-TUE Joint Lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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7
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Zhao H, Dai X, Yuan Z, Li G, Fu Y, Qin M. Iridescent chiral nematic papers based on cellulose nanocrystals with multiple optical responses for patterned coatings. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 289:119461. [PMID: 35483862 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.119461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Chiral nematic papers (CNPs) with mesopores structure based on cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were fabricated successfully via a swelling and freeze-drying method. The order of the original chiral nematic cellulose nanocrystals film was preserved in CNPs, which was proved by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), polarized optical microscopy (POM) measurements and circular dichroism (CD) spectra. The CNPs exhibited excellent optical responsive properties to different solvents. Inspired by this feature, a colorable ink containing amounts of gel particles was prepared by pulverizing CNPs/water mixture into a suspension. Patterns written in suspension ink with various colors can be formed when soaked with different solvents. Moreover, CNPs displayed an irreversible color response to compression. Additionally, the hydrophilicity of CNPs was tuned by polyethyleneimine. Modified CNPs exhibited different colors under the identical solvent environment when compared to the original one. Aqueous PEI can be used as an ink to depict responsive photonic patterns on CNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haodong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan 250353, China
| | - Xiaonan Dai
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan 250353, China
| | - Zaiwu Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan 250353, China.
| | - Guihua Li
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan 250353, China.
| | - Yingjuan Fu
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan 250353, China
| | - Menghua Qin
- Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Taishan University, Taian 271021, China
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8
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Zhang P, Debije MG, de Haan LT, Schenning APHJ. Pigmented Structural Color Actuators Fueled by Near-Infrared Light. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:20093-20100. [PMID: 35451302 PMCID: PMC9073939 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c03392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cuttlefish can modify their body shape and both their pigmentary and structural colors for protection. This adaptability has inspired the development of appearance-changing polymers such as structural color actuators, although in most cases, the original shape has been confined to being flat, and pigmented structural color actuators have not yet been reported. Here, we have successfully created a pigmented structural color actuator using a cholesteric liquid crystal elastomer with a lower actuation temperature where both actuation and coloration (structural and pigmental) are tunable with temperature and NIR light. The shape, structural color, and absorption of the NIR-absorbing dye pigment of the actuator all change with temperature. Light can be used to trigger local in-plane bending actuation in flat films and local shape changes in a variety of 3D-shaped objects. A cuttlefish mimic that can sense light and respond by locally changing its appearance was also made to demonstrate the potential of pigmented structural color actuators for signaling and camouflage in soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Zhang
- Stimuli-Responsive
Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering
and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Michael G. Debije
- Stimuli-Responsive
Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering
and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Laurens T. de Haan
- SCNU-TUE
Joint Lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), National
Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Albert P. H. J. Schenning
- Stimuli-Responsive
Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering
and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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9
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Abstract
Colloidal self-assembly refers to a solution-processed assembly of nanometer-/micrometer-sized, well-dispersed particles into secondary structures, whose collective properties are controlled by not only nanoparticle property but also the superstructure symmetry, orientation, phase, and dimension. This combination of characteristics makes colloidal superstructures highly susceptible to remote stimuli or local environmental changes, representing a prominent platform for developing stimuli-responsive materials and smart devices. Chemists are achieving even more delicate control over their active responses to various practical stimuli, setting the stage ready for fully exploiting the potential of this unique set of materials. This review addresses the assembly of colloids into stimuli-responsive or smart nanostructured materials. We first delineate the colloidal self-assembly driven by forces of different length scales. A set of concepts and equations are outlined for controlling the colloidal crystal growth, appreciating the importance of particle connectivity in creating responsive superstructures. We then present working mechanisms and practical strategies for engineering smart colloidal assemblies. The concepts underpinning separation and connectivity control are systematically introduced, allowing active tuning and precise prediction of the colloidal crystal properties in response to external stimuli. Various exciting applications of these unique materials are summarized with a specific focus on the structure-property correlation in smart materials and functional devices. We conclude this review with a summary of existing challenges in colloidal self-assembly of smart materials and provide a perspective on their further advances to the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Qingsong Fan
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Yadong Yin
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
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10
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Cheng M, Li Q. Left-Handed or Right-Handed? Determinants of the Chirality of Helically Deformable Soft Actuators. Soft Robot 2021; 9:850-860. [PMID: 34582707 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2021.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Helical curling and spiral structure are very common in nature, which inspire researchers to create various forms of helical configurations and actuators. The helically deformable actuators perform asymmetric deformations and show different chirality, which means that they can be left handed or right handed. However, the mechanism of helical curling and especially how the key factors influence the chirality of the actuator have not been systematically explained and well understood. In this study, we focus on the typical double-layer soft actuator composed of an active (expansion) layer and a passive (supporting) layer and investigate the effect of key factors (expansion coefficient, Young's modulus, relative thickness) on the chirality of the helical actuation or morphing by comprehensive finite element analyses. It was found that (i) the anisotropic expansion of the active layer or (ii) the anisotropic Young's modulus of the active or the passive layer is indispensable for helical curling. In Case (i), the actuator curls along the direction of greater expansion of the active layer. In Case (ii), the actuator curls along the direction of closer moduli match of the active and passive layers, and their relative thickness also affects the helical morphing of the actuator. In practice, the above two factors may cooperate or compete with each other, and the dominant one determines the chirality. This work gives the general rules for helical morphing forms and can provide guidance for the design and preparation of spiral actuators and soft robots in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxing Cheng
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Qingwei Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
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11
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Jiang Y, Li G, Yang C, Kong F, Yuan Z. Multiresponsive Cellulose Nanocrystal Cross-Linked Copolymer Hydrogels for the Controlled Release of Dyes and Drugs. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:1219. [PMID: 33918822 PMCID: PMC8070268 DOI: 10.3390/polym13081219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiresponsive hydrogels have attracted tremendous interest due to their promising applications in tissue engineering, wearable devices, and flexible electronics. In this work, we report a multiresponsive upper critical solution temperature (UCST) composite hydrogel based on poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), PAAc-co-PAAm, sequentially cross-linked by acid-hydrolysis cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations demonstrated that the hydrogels are formed by densely cross-linked porous structures. The PAAc/PAAm/CNC hybrid hydrogels exhibit swelling and shrinking properties that can be induced by multiple stimuli, including temperature, pH, and salt concentration. The driving force of the volume transition is the formation and dissociation of hydrogen bonds in the hydrogels. A certain content of CNCs can greatly enhance the shrinkage capability and mechanical strength of the hybrid hydrogels, but an excess addition may impair the contractility of the hydrogel. Furthermore, the hydrogels can be used as a matrix to adsorb dyes, such as methylene blue (MB), for water purification. MB may be partly discharged from hydrogels by saline solutions, especially by those with high ionic strength. Notably, through temperature-controlled hydrogel swelling and shrinking, doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX-HCl) can be controllably adsorbed and released from the prepared hydrogels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (Y.J.); (C.Y.)
| | - Guihua Li
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (Y.J.); (C.Y.)
| | - Chenyu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (Y.J.); (C.Y.)
| | - Fangong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China;
| | - Zaiwu Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (Y.J.); (C.Y.)
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China;
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12
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Liu M, Kuang K, Li G, Yang S, Yuan Z. Photoluminescence-enhanced cholesteric films: Coassembling copper nanoclusters with cellulose nanocrystals. Carbohydr Polym 2021; 257:117641. [PMID: 33541665 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.117641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Iridescent and luminescent composite films were fabricated through a coassembly strategy, in which glutathione-stabilized copper nanoclusters (GSH-CuNCs) were incorporated into chiral nematic structures of a cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) film. Through variations in the helical pitch, these composite films exhibited broadband reflection. The fluorescence emission spectrum of the composite film exhibited peaks at 439 and 600 nm, corresponding to crystallization-induced emission from CNCs and assembly-induced emission from CuNCs. The enhanced luminescence and prolonged lifetime of the composite film were attributed to the confinement effect of solid layers and attendant intermolecular interactions. By tuning the reaction time, temperature, and pH of the solution, the emission color and intensity of the CuNCs could be changed. At appropriate GSH and Cu2+ concentrations, the chiral organization of GSH-CuNCs enabled the composite CNC film to exhibit right-handed chiral fluorescence with an asymmetry factor of -0.16. Luminescent composite films were employed to fabricate LEDs with custom colors and patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingye Liu
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Kexu Kuang
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Guihua Li
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China.
| | - Shiquan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Zaiwu Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China; State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
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13
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Zhang Y, Tian Z, Fu Y, Wang Z, Qin M, Yuan Z. Responsive and patterned cellulose nanocrystal films modified by N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide. Carbohydr Polym 2020; 228:115387. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2019.115387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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14
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Xue J, Gao Z, Xiao L. The Application of Stimuli-Sensitive Actuators Based on Graphene Materials. Front Chem 2019; 7:803. [PMID: 31921756 PMCID: PMC6914738 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2019.00803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Graphene-based materials that can spontaneously response to external stimulations have triggered rapidly increasing research interest for developing smart devices due to their excellent electrical, mechanical and thermal properties. The specific behaviors as bending, curling, and swing are benefit for designing and fabricating the smart actuation system. In this minireview, we overview and summarize some of the recent advancements of stimuli-responsive actuators based on graphene materials. The external stimulus usually is as electrical, electrochemical, humid, photonic, and thermal. The advancement and industrialization of graphene preparation technology would push forward the rapid progress of graphene-based actuators and broaden their application including smart sensors, robots, artificial muscles, intelligent switch, and so on.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhaoshun Gao
- Interdisciplinary Research Center, Institute of Electrical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, China
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15
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Li Q, Wang X, Dong L, Liu C, Fan S. Spirally deformable soft actuators and their designable helical actuations based on a highly oriented carbon nanotube film. SOFT MATTER 2019; 15:9788-9796. [PMID: 31746933 DOI: 10.1039/c9sm01966a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Spiral configurations and helical curlings of plant tendrils and seed pods are very common in nature. Many researchers have tried to develop spirally deformable actuators to mimic these natural spirals through several approaches, such as preforming helical shapes, processing diagonal stripes and employing anisotropic organic layers. However, these methods are usually complex and time-consuming. Here, we used an efficient method to produce a highly oriented carbon nanotube (CNT) film and develop a series of spirally deformable soft actuators which perform various controllable helical actuations. The actuator consists of a CNT layer with strong anisotropy and a silicone layer. By simply adjusting the orientations of the aligned CNTs, the prepared actuators can accomplish left- or right-handed spiral deformations with different helical forms when driven by electricity. Finite element analyses and simulations were conducted to investigate the mechanism. It is confirmed that it is the anisotropic moduli of the CNT film that regulate the internal stress distributions of the actuators and lead to helical actuations. Moreover, complex actuator designs and functional applications were also carried out. A V-shaped actuator can simultaneously achieve left- and right-handed curling with large angles (630°), which vividly imitates the spiral winding of a tendril. A Y-shaped actuator performed three-dimensional movements, which can manipulate lightweight objects deftly. By virtue of easy preparation and flexible function design, the spirally deformable actuators based on the oriented CNT film will be very promising in artificial muscles and bionic soft robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingwei Li
- Intelligent Robotics Institute, School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
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