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Zhou Y, Ye M, Hu C, Qian H, Nelson BJ, Wang X. Stimuli-Responsive Functional Micro-/Nanorobots: A Review. ACS NANO 2023; 17:15254-15276. [PMID: 37534824 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c01942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive functional micro-/nanorobots (srFM/Ns) are a class of intelligent, efficient, and promising microrobots that can react to external stimuli (such as temperature, light, ultrasound, pH, ion, and magnetic field) and perform designated tasks. Through adaptive transformation into the corresponding functional forms, they can perfectly match the demands depending on different applications, which manifest extremely important roles in targeted therapy, biological detection, tissue engineering, and other fields. Promising as srFM/Ns can be, few reviews have focused on them. It is therefore necessary to provide an overview of the current development of these intelligent srFM/Ns to provide clear inspiration for further development of this field. Hence, this review summarizes the current advances of stimuli-responsive functional microrobots regarding their response mechanism, the achieved functions, and their applications to highlight the pros and cons of different stimuli. Finally, we emphasize the existing challenges of srFM/Ns and propose possible strategies to help accelerate the study of this field and promote srFM/Ns toward actual applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
| | - Min Ye
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
| | - Chengzhi Hu
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Huihuan Qian
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Bradley J Nelson
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Xiaopu Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
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2
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Hegde C, Su J, Tan JMR, He K, Chen X, Magdassi S. Sensing in Soft Robotics. ACS NANO 2023; 17:15277-15307. [PMID: 37530475 PMCID: PMC10448757 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c04089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Soft robotics is an exciting field of science and technology that enables robots to manipulate objects with human-like dexterity. Soft robots can handle delicate objects with care, access remote areas, and offer realistic feedback on their handling performance. However, increased dexterity and mechanical compliance of soft robots come with the need for accurate control of the position and shape of these robots. Therefore, soft robots must be equipped with sensors for better perception of their surroundings, location, force, temperature, shape, and other stimuli for effective usage. This review highlights recent progress in sensing feedback technologies for soft robotic applications. It begins with an introduction to actuation technologies and material selection in soft robotics, followed by an in-depth exploration of various types of sensors, their integration methods, and the benefits of multimodal sensing, signal processing, and control strategies. A short description of current market leaders in soft robotics is also included in the review to illustrate the growing demands of this technology. By examining the latest advancements in sensing feedback technologies for soft robots, this review aims to highlight the potential of soft robotics and inspire innovation in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chidanand Hegde
- School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang
Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Singapore-HUJ
alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Jiangtao Su
- School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang
Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Singapore-HUJ
alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Joel Ming Rui Tan
- School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang
Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Singapore-HUJ
alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Ke He
- School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang
Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Singapore-HUJ
alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Xiaodong Chen
- School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang
Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Singapore-HUJ
alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Shlomo Magdassi
- Singapore-HUJ
alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) Singapore 138602, Singapore
- Casali
Center for Applied Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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3
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Ciarleglio G, Toto E, Santonicola MG. Conductive and Thermo-Responsive Composite Hydrogels with Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) and Carbon Nanotubes Fabricated by Two-Step Photopolymerization. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15041022. [PMID: 36850305 PMCID: PMC9962410 DOI: 10.3390/polym15041022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Biocompatible and conductive polymer hydrogels are the subject of intensive research in the bioengineering field because of their use in bioelectronic devices and for the fabrication of electro-responsive tissues and drug delivery systems. In this study, we report the synthesis of conductive composite hydrogels consisting of a poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) matrix embedding carboxyl-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT-COOH) using a two-step photopolymerization method. Thermo-responsive hydrogels with controlled hydrophilicity and conductivity were prepared by varying the carbon nanotube concentration in the range 0.5-3 wt%. The thermal response of the PNIPAM-based composite hydrogels was measured by differential scanning calorimetry with both ultrapure water and PBS solution as swelling liquid. Results show that the endothermic peak associated with the temperature-induced volume phase transition (VPT) shifts to higher temperatures upon increasing the concentration of the nanotubes, indicating that more energy is required to dissociate the hydrogen bonds of the polymer/filler network. In PBS solution, the swelling ratios and the VPT temperatures of the composite hydrogels are reduced because of salt-induced screening of the oppositely charged polymer/filler assembly, and the electrical resistivity decreases by a factor of 10 with respect to the water-swollen hydrogels.
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Rusu DM, Mândru SD, Biriș CM, Petrașcu OL, Morariu F, Ianosi-Andreeva-Dimitrova A. Soft Robotics: A Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:mi14020359. [PMID: 36838059 PMCID: PMC9961507 DOI: 10.3390/mi14020359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, soft robotics has developed considerably, especially since the year 2018 when it became a hot field among current research topics. The attention that this field receives from researchers and the public is marked by the substantial increase in both the quantity and the quality of scientific publications. In this review, in order to create a relevant and comprehensive picture of this field both quantitatively and qualitatively, the paper approaches two directions. The first direction is centered on a bibliometric analysis focused on the period 2008-2022 with the exact expression that best characterizes this field, which is "Soft Robotics", and the data were taken from a series of multidisciplinary databases and a specialized journal. The second direction focuses on the analysis of bibliographic references that were rigorously selected following a clear methodology based on a series of inclusion and exclusion criteria. After the selection of bibliographic sources, 111 papers were part of the final analysis, which have been analyzed in detail considering three different perspectives: one related to the design principle (biologically inspired soft robotics), one related to functionality (closed/open-loop control), and one from a biomedical applications perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Mihai Rusu
- Mechatronics and Machine Dynamics Department, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, 400114 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Silviu-Dan Mândru
- Mechatronics and Machine Dynamics Department, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, 400114 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristina-Maria Biriș
- Department of Industrial Machines and Equipment, Engineering Faculty, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Victoriei 10, 550024 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Olivia-Laura Petrașcu
- Department of Industrial Machines and Equipment, Engineering Faculty, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Victoriei 10, 550024 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Fineas Morariu
- Department of Industrial Machines and Equipment, Engineering Faculty, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Victoriei 10, 550024 Sibiu, Romania
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5
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Zhang S, Ke X, Jiang Q, Chai Z, Wu Z, Ding H. Fabrication and Functionality Integration Technologies for Small-Scale Soft Robots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2200671. [PMID: 35732070 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202200671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Small-scale soft robots are attracting increasing interest for visible and potential applications owing to their safety and tolerance resulting from their intrinsic soft bodies or compliant structures. However, it is not sufficient that the soft bodies merely provide support or system protection. More importantly, to meet the increasing demands of controllable operation and real-time feedback in unstructured/complicated scenarios, these robots are required to perform simplex and multimodal functionalities for sensing, communicating, and interacting with external environments during large or dynamic deformation with the risk of mismatch or delamination. Challenges are encountered during fabrication and integration, including the selection and fabrication of composite/materials and structures, integration of active/passive functional modules with robust interfaces, particularly with highly deformable soft/stretchable bodies. Here, methods and strategies of fabricating structural soft bodies and integrating them with functional modules for developing small-scale soft robots are investigated. Utilizing templating, 3D printing, transfer printing, and swelling, small-scale soft robots can be endowed with several perceptual capabilities corresponding to diverse stimulus, such as light, heat, magnetism, and force. The integration of sensing and functionalities effectively enhances the agility, adaptability, and universality of soft robots when applied in various fields, including smart manufacturing, medical surgery, biomimetics, and other interdisciplinary sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Xingxing Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Qin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Zhiping Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Zhigang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Han Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
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6
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Kim J, Park H, Yoon C. Advances in Biodegradable Soft Robots. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14214574. [PMID: 36365570 PMCID: PMC9658808 DOI: 10.3390/polym14214574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable soft robots have been proposed for a variety of intelligent applications in soft robotics, flexible electronics, and bionics. Biodegradability offers an extraordinary functional advantage to soft robots for operations accompanying smart shape transformation in response to external stimuli such as heat, pH, and light. This review primarily surveyed the current advanced scientific and engineering strategies for integrating biodegradable materials within stimuli-responsive soft robots. It also focused on the fabrication methodologies of multiscale biodegradable soft robots, and highlighted the role of biodegradable soft robots in enhancing the multifunctional properties of drug delivery capsules, biopsy tools, smart actuators, and sensors. Lastly, the current challenges and perspectives on the future development of intelligent soft robots for operation in real environments were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Kim
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Harim Park
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - ChangKyu Yoon
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Institute of Advanced Materials and Systems, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Correspondence:
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Dong X, Luo X, Zhao H, Qiao C, Li J, Yi J, Yang L, Oropeza FJ, Hu TS, Xu Q, Zeng H. Recent advances in biomimetic soft robotics: fabrication approaches, driven strategies and applications. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:7699-7734. [PMID: 36205123 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm01067d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Compared to traditional rigid-bodied robots, soft robots are constructed using physically flexible/elastic bodies and electronics to mimic nature and enable novel applications in industry, healthcare, aviation, military, etc. Recently, the fabrication of robots on soft matter with great flexibility and compliance has enabled smooth and sophisticated 'multi-degree-of-freedom' 3D actuation to seamlessly interact with humans, other organisms and non-idealized environments in a highly complex and controllable manner. Herein, we summarize the fabrication approaches, driving strategies, novel applications, and future trends of soft robots. Firstly, we introduce the different fabrication approaches to prepare soft robots and compare and systematically discuss their advantages and disadvantages. Then, we present the actuator-based and material-based driving strategies of soft robotics and their characteristics. The representative applications of soft robotics in artificial intelligence, medicine, sensors, and engineering are summarized. Also, some remaining challenges and future perspectives in soft robotics are provided. This work highlights the recent advances of soft robotics in terms of functional material selection, structure design, control strategies and biomimicry, providing useful insights into the development of next-generation functional soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Dong
- College of Mechanical and Transportation Engineering, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Beijing 102249, China.
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 1H9, Canada.
| | - Xiaohang Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Beijing 102249, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- College of Mechanical and Transportation Engineering, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Beijing 102249, China.
| | - Chenyu Qiao
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 1H9, Canada.
| | - Jiapeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Beijing 102249, China
| | - Jianhong Yi
- Faculty of Metallurgical and Energy Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, China.
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 1H9, Canada.
- Faculty of Metallurgical and Energy Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, China.
| | - Francisco J Oropeza
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, California State University, Los Angeles, California 90032, USA
| | - Travis Shihao Hu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, California State University, Los Angeles, California 90032, USA
| | - Quan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Beijing 102249, China
| | - Hongbo Zeng
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 1H9, Canada.
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8
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Son H, Park Y, Na Y, Yoon C. 4D Multiscale Origami Soft Robots: A Review. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14194235. [PMID: 36236182 PMCID: PMC9571758 DOI: 10.3390/polym14194235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Time-dependent shape-transferable soft robots are important for various intelligent applications in flexible electronics and bionics. Four-dimensional (4D) shape changes can offer versatile functional advantages during operations to soft robots that respond to external environmental stimuli, including heat, pH, light, electric, or pneumatic triggers. This review investigates the current advances in multiscale soft robots that can display 4D shape transformations. This review first focuses on material selection to demonstrate 4D origami-driven shape transformations. Second, this review investigates versatile fabrication strategies to form the 4D mechanical structures of soft robots. Third, this review surveys the folding, rolling, bending, and wrinkling mechanisms of soft robots during operation. Fourth, this review highlights the diverse applications of 4D origami-driven soft robots in actuators, sensors, and bionics. Finally, perspectives on future directions and challenges in the development of intelligent soft robots in real operational environments are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyegyo Son
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Yunha Park
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Youngjin Na
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.N.); (C.Y.)
| | - ChangKyu Yoon
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Institute of Advanced Materials and Systems, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.N.); (C.Y.)
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Abadia AV, Herbert KM, White TJ, Schwartz DK, Kaar JL. Biocatalytic 3D Actuation in Liquid Crystal Elastomers via Enzyme Patterning. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:26480-26488. [PMID: 35652291 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c05802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are stimuli-responsive materials that undergo large shape transformations after undergoing an order-disorder transition. While shape reconfigurations in LCEs are predominantly triggered by heat, there is a considerable interest in developing highly specific triggers that work at room temperature. Herein, we report the fabrication of biocatalytic LCEs that respond to the presence of urea by covalently immobilizing urease within chemically responsive LCE networks. The hydrogen-bonded LCEs developed in this work exhibited contractile strains of up to 36% upon exposure to a base. Notably, the generation of ammonia by immobilized urease triggered a disruption in the supramolecular network and a large reduction of liquid crystalline order in the films when the LCEs were exposed to urea. This reduction in order was macroscopically translated into a strain response that could be modulated by changing the concentration of urea or exposure time to the substrate. Local control of the mechanical response of the LCE was realized by spatially patterning the enzyme on the surface of the films. Subsequent exposure of enzymatically patterned LCE to urea-triggered 3D shape transformations into a curl, arch, or accordion-like structure, depending on the motif patterned on the film surface. Furthermore, we showed that the presence of salt was critical to prevent bridging of the network by the presence of ammonium ions, thereby enabling such macroscopic 3D shape changes. The large actuation potential of LCEs and the ability to translate the biocatalytic activity of enzymes to macroscopic 3D shape transformations could enable use in applications ranging from cell culture, medicine, or antifouling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Velasco Abadia
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Katie M Herbert
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Timothy J White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
- Material Science and Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Daniel K Schwartz
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Joel L Kaar
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
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10
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Ganesan M, Kumar R, Satapathy DK. Bidirectional Actuation of Silk Fibroin Films: Role of Water and Alcohol Vapors. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:6066-6075. [PMID: 35500271 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) shape morphism observed in nature inspires the development of stimuli-responsive soft actuators. Vapor-responsive actuators are promising among the different stimuli-responsive materials due to their capability to produce macroscale movements in response to a minuscule amount of specific chemical vapor. Here, we report unusual multiple vapor-responsive bidirectional macroscale actuation behaviors of single-layer regenerated silk fibroin films. The vapor-responsive silk fibroin actuator exhibits antagonistic actuation characteristics in a reversible manner to both water and ethanol vapors. For instance, it produces an upward bending in the presence of water vapor and downward bending in ethanol vapor, which demonstrates the chemical vapor-specific actuation. However, the actuation characteristics remain largely invariant upon changing the polarity of alcohol molecules. The silk fibroin actuators effectively utilize the vapor-induced minuscule expansion and contraction of the film surface to produce large-scale actuation, which is fully reversible. The intrinsic water content of the films and the vapor pressure of the stimulants are exploited to control the actuation performance. Further, we demonstrated the 3D shape morphing ability of the actuator by generating an undulating wavelike motion via preprogrammed water and ethanol vapor exposure conditions. The change in the actuation direction is instantaneous, which ensures the sensitivity and rapid response of the fabricated actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manikandan Ganesan
- Soft Materials Laboratory, Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), Chennai 600036, India
- Laboratory for High Performance Ceramics, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering & Ceramic Technologies Group, Centre of Excellence in Materials & Manufacturing for Futuristic Mobility, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), Chennai 600036, India
| | - Ravi Kumar
- Laboratory for High Performance Ceramics, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering & Ceramic Technologies Group, Centre of Excellence in Materials & Manufacturing for Futuristic Mobility, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), Chennai 600036, India
| | - Dillip K Satapathy
- Soft Materials Laboratory, Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), Chennai 600036, India
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Wang L, Liu F, Qian J, Wu Z, Xiao R. Multi-responsive PNIPAM-PEGDA hydrogel composite. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:10421-10427. [PMID: 34605528 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm01178b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogels are widely used in applications such as soft robots and flexible sensors due to their sensitivity to environmental stimuli. It is highly demanded to develop multiple-responsive hydrogel structures. In this work, we employ the 3D printing technique to fabricate a PNIPAM-PEGDA hydrogel bilayer that can change shape through controlling the temperature, solvent mixture and magnetic field. The PNIPAM gel is a typical thermo-responsive gel, showing a decrease in swelling ratio with increasing temperature. Meanwhile, the PNIPAM gels also exhibit the cononsolvency effect in ethanol-water mixtures with a smaller swelling ratio in the mixture compared with that in each pure solvent. In comparison, the swelling ratio of PEGDA gels is insensitive to changes in both the temperature and solvent composition. Thus, the bilayer structure of PNIPAM-PEGDA can bend in different directions and with different angles with changing the temperature and solvent composition. Finally, Fe3O4 nanoparticles are incorporated into the matrix of PEGDA gels, endowing the whole structure with deformation and motion in response to an external magnetic field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power & Mechatronic System, Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
| | - Fengrui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power & Mechatronic System, Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
| | - Jin Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power & Mechatronic System, Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
| | - Ziliang Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Rui Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power & Mechatronic System, Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
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12
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Light-Responsive Soft Actuators: Mechanism, Materials, Fabrication, and Applications. ACTUATORS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/act10110298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Soft robots are those that can move like living organisms and adapt to the surrounding environment. Compared with traditional rigid robots, the advantages of soft robots, in terms of material flexibility, human–computer interaction, and biological adaptability, have received extensive attention. Flexible actuators based on light response are one of the most promising ways to promote the field of cordless soft robots, and they have attracted the attention of scientists in bionic design, actuation implementation, and application. First, the three working principles and the commonly used light-responsive materials for light-responsive actuators are introduced. Then, the characteristics of light-responsive soft actuators are sequentially presented, emphasizing the structure strategy, actuation performance, and emerging applications. Finally, this review is concluded with a perspective on the existing challenges and future opportunities in this nascent research frontier.
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13
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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: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [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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14
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Patil TV, Patel DK, Dutta SD, Ganguly K, Lim KT. Graphene Oxide-Based Stimuli-Responsive Platforms for Biomedical Applications. Molecules 2021; 26:2797. [PMID: 34068529 PMCID: PMC8126026 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Graphene is a two-dimensional sp2 hybridized carbon material that has attracted tremendous attention for its stimuli-responsive applications, owing to its high surface area and excellent electrical, optical, thermal, and mechanical properties. The physicochemical properties of graphene can be tuned by surface functionalization. The biomedical field pays special attention to stimuli-responsive materials due to their responsive abilities under different conditions. Stimuli-responsive materials exhibit great potential in changing their behavior upon exposure to external or internal factors, such as pH, light, electric field, magnetic field, and temperature. Graphene-based materials, particularly graphene oxide (GO), have been widely used in stimuli-responsive applications due to their superior biocompatibility compared to other forms of graphene. GO has been commonly utilized in tissue engineering, bioimaging, biosensing, cancer therapy, and drug delivery. GO-based stimuli-responsive platforms for wound healing applications have not yet been fully explored. This review describes the effects of different stimuli-responsive factors, such as pH, light, temperature, and magnetic and electric fields on GO-based materials and their applications. The wound healing applications of GO-based materials is extensively discussed with cancer therapy and drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejal V. Patil
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forest Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea; (T.V.P.); (D.K.P.); (S.D.D.); (K.G.)
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Dinesh K. Patel
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forest Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea; (T.V.P.); (D.K.P.); (S.D.D.); (K.G.)
| | - Sayan Deb Dutta
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forest Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea; (T.V.P.); (D.K.P.); (S.D.D.); (K.G.)
| | - Keya Ganguly
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forest Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea; (T.V.P.); (D.K.P.); (S.D.D.); (K.G.)
| | - Ki-Taek Lim
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forest Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea; (T.V.P.); (D.K.P.); (S.D.D.); (K.G.)
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
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15
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Tian S, Li S, Hu Y, Wang W, Yu A, Wan L, Zhai J. A Polymeric Bilayer Multi-Legged Soft Millirobot with Dual Actuation and Humidity Sensing. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 21:1972. [PMID: 33799694 PMCID: PMC7998303 DOI: 10.3390/s21061972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
There are numerous works that report wirelessly controlling the locomotion of soft robots through a single actuation method of light or magnetism. However, coupling multiple driving modes to improve the mobility of robots is still in its infancy. Here, we present a soft multi-legged millirobot that can move, climb a slope, swim and detect a signal by near-infrared irradiation (NIR) light or magnetic field dual actuation. Due to the design of the feet structure, our soft millirobot incorporates the advantages of a single actuation mode of light or magnetism. Furthermore, it can execute a compulsory exercise to sense a signal and analyze the ambience fluctuation in a narrow place. This work provides a novel alternative for soft robots to achieve multimode actuation and signal sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shidai Tian
- Center on Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (S.T.); (S.L.); (Y.H.)
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100083, China;
| | - Shijie Li
- Center on Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (S.T.); (S.L.); (Y.H.)
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100083, China;
| | - Yijie Hu
- Center on Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (S.T.); (S.L.); (Y.H.)
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100083, China;
| | - Wei Wang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100083, China;
- College of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Aifang Yu
- Center on Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (S.T.); (S.L.); (Y.H.)
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100083, China;
- College of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lingyu Wan
- Center on Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (S.T.); (S.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Junyi Zhai
- Center on Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (S.T.); (S.L.); (Y.H.)
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100083, China;
- College of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
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