1
|
Das G, Park SY. Visible-Light-Driven and Adaptable Liquid-Crystalline Elastomer Actuators Containing Dynamically Exchangeable Boron Ester and Disulfide Linkages. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2025; 17:12739-12754. [PMID: 39933883 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5c00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2025]
Abstract
A liquid-crystalline elastomer (LCE) containing dynamically exchangeable disulfide (-S-S-) and boron ester (BE) bonds (LCESS-BE) was successfully prepared. The -S-S- linkages were introduced in the form of a reactive oligomer prepared via a thiol-acrylate Michael addition reaction with bis(2-hydroxyethyl) disulfide acrylate, while the BE linkages were incorporated via the visible-light-induced cross-linking of the oligomer with 4-((allyloxy)methyl)-2-(4-vinylphenyl)-1,3,2-dioxaborolane (AMVD). The monodomain LCESS-BE (MLCESS-BE) with ∼1 wt % AMVD promoted photothermal actuation under blue-light irradiation, resulting in a rise in its temperature of ∼147 °C and a decrease in its length of ∼42%. In addition, LCESS-BE films exhibited reversible reprogrammability through two dynamic exchange reactions (DERs) involving either BE or -S-S- linkages. The BE linkages induced water-assisted healing through a hydration/dehydration DER under ambient conditions via a glue-free method, while the -S-S- linkages exhibited a UV-light-induced DER below the nematic-to-isotropic transition temperature, thus maintaining the nematic order during the DER. This approach represents a promising method for the preparation of MLCEs with light-induced actuation and multifunctionality involving reprogramming, reprocessing, and healing properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gautam Das
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Polymeric Nano Materials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Young Park
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Polymeric Nano Materials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nemati Y, Yang Q, Sohrabi F, Timonen JVI, Sánchez-Somolinos C, Honkanen M, Zeng H, Priimagi A. Magneto-Photochemically Responsive Liquid Crystal Elastomer for Underwater Actuation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2025; 17:5316-5325. [PMID: 39788547 PMCID: PMC11758782 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c14704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2024] [Revised: 12/03/2024] [Accepted: 12/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2025]
Abstract
The quest for small-scale, remotely controlled soft robots has led to the exploration of magnetic and optical fields for inducing shape morphing in soft materials. Magnetic stimulus excels when navigation in confined or optically opaque environments is required. Optical stimulus, in turn, boasts superior spatial precision and individual control over multiple objects. Herein, we bring these two methodologies together and present a monolithic liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) system that synergistically combines magnetic and photochemical actuation schemes. The resultant composite material showcases versatile possibilities for underwater actuation, and we demonstrate robotic functionalities where the optical and magnetic response can be leveraged in different tasks (object gripping and object translocation, respectively) or where light can be used as a control signal to tune the magnetically induced actuation. Combining these two remote actuation methods offers powerful, dual-mode control in wireless, small-scale robotics, especially in submersed environments due to their isothermal nature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Nemati
- Faculty
of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere
University, P.O. Box 541, FI-33101 Tampere, Finland
| | - Qi Yang
- Faculty
of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere
University, P.O. Box 541, FI-33101 Tampere, Finland
- Qingdao
University of Science & Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Fereshteh Sohrabi
- Department
of Applied Physics, Aalto University School
of Science, Puumiehenkuja,
202150 Espoo, Finland
| | - Jaakko V. I. Timonen
- Department
of Applied Physics, Aalto University School
of Science, Puumiehenkuja,
202150 Espoo, Finland
| | - Carlos Sánchez-Somolinos
- Instituto
de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad
de Zaragoza, Departamento de
Física de la Materia Condensada, Zaragoza 50009, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería,
Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos
III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Mari Honkanen
- Tampere Microscopy
Center, Tampere University, P.O. Box 692, 33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Hao Zeng
- Faculty
of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere
University, P.O. Box 541, FI-33101 Tampere, Finland
| | - Arri Priimagi
- Faculty
of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere
University, P.O. Box 541, FI-33101 Tampere, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
McCracken JM, Bauman GE, Williams G, Santos M, Smith L, MacCurdy R, White TJ. Cuboidal Deformation of Multimaterial Composites Prepared by 3-D Printing of Liquid Crystalline Elastomers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:69851-69857. [PMID: 39630564 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c14792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
Multimaterial 3-D printing (3DP) of isotropic (IsoE) and liquid crystalline elastomers (LCE) yields spatially programmed elements that undergo a cuboidal shape transformation upon heating. The thermomechanical deformation of 3DP elements is determined by the geometry and extent of the isotropic and anisotropic regions. The synthesis and experimental characterization of the 3DP elements are complemented by finite element analysis (FEA). Calculations emphasize that the cuboidal deformation of the myriad 3DP elements is a manifestation of local stress gradients imparted by local control of the material composition and anisotropy. Varying the rectilinear spatial distribution of the multimaterial elastomer composites produces complex, multistable states that provide insights into how stress gradients drive multimaterial elastomer actuation. The thermomechanical stimuli response of the multimaterial elements is explored as a tactile element.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joselle M McCracken
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Grant E Bauman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Graham Williams
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Misael Santos
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Lawrence Smith
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Robert MacCurdy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Timothy J White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ince JC, Duffy AR, Salim NV. Silver Coated Multifunctional Liquid Crystalline Elastomer Polymeric Composites as Electro-Responsive and Piezo-Resistive Artificial Muscles. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024; 45:e2400370. [PMID: 38873978 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202400370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) are a class of shape-changing polymers with exceptional mechanical properties and potential as artificial muscles/polymer actuators. In this study, multifunctional LCE actuators with strain sensing and joule heating responsivity are developed. LCEs are successfully synthesized using the thiol-ene two-staged michael addition polymerization (TMAP) method. The LCE films are further functionalized via sequential polydopamine (PDA) and silver electroless coating. It is found that the PDA coating enabled the anchoring of the Ag particles to the LCE, thereby enabling the electrical conductivity of the Ag-LCEs (<0.1 Ω cm-1). The studies confirm that the Ag/PDA coated LCEs can sense up to ≈30% strain, sense their own actuation strokes, and actuate at a rate of 1.83% s-1 while lifting a weight ≈50 times its mass in response to a 12 V 2A DC current.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua C Ince
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Product Design Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Melbourne, VIC, 3122, Australia
| | - Alan R Duffy
- Centre for Astronomy and Supercomputing, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, 3122, Australia
| | - Nisa V Salim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Product Design Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Melbourne, VIC, 3122, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wan X, Xiao Z, Tian Y, Chen M, Liu F, Wang D, Liu Y, Bartolo PJDS, Yan C, Shi Y, Zhao RR, Qi HJ, Zhou K. Recent Advances in 4D Printing of Advanced Materials and Structures for Functional Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2312263. [PMID: 38439193 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312263] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
4D printing has attracted tremendous worldwide attention during the past decade. This technology enables the shape, property, or functionality of printed structures to change with time in response to diverse external stimuli, making the original static structures alive. The revolutionary 4D-printing technology offers remarkable benefits in controlling geometric and functional reconfiguration, thereby showcasing immense potential across diverse fields, including biomedical engineering, electronics, robotics, and photonics. Here, a comprehensive review of the latest achievements in 4D printing using various types of materials and different additive manufacturing techniques is presented. The state-of-the-art strategies implemented in harnessing various 4D-printed structures are highlighted, which involve materials design, stimuli, functionalities, and applications. The machine learning approach explored for 4D printing is also discussed. Finally, the perspectives on the current challenges and future trends toward further development in 4D printing are summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wan
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Zhongmin Xiao
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Yujia Tian
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Mei Chen
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Feng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Dong Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Paulo Jorge Da Silva Bartolo
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Chunze Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yusheng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Ruike Renee Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Hang Jerry Qi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Kun Zhou
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sartori P, Yadav RS, del Barrio J, DeSimone A, Sánchez‐Somolinos C. Photochemically Induced Propulsion of a 4D Printed Liquid Crystal Elastomer Biomimetic Swimmer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308561. [PMID: 38590131 PMCID: PMC11220691 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Underwater organisms exhibit sophisticated propulsion mechanisms, enabling them to navigate fluid environments with exceptional dexterity. Recently, substantial efforts have focused on integrating these movements into soft robots using smart shape-changing materials, particularly by using light for their propulsion and control. Nonetheless, challenges persist, including slow response times and the need of powerful light beams to actuate the robot. This last can result in unintended sample heating and potentially necessitate tracking specific actuation spots on the swimmer. To tackle these challenges, new azobenzene-containing photopolymerizable inks are introduced, which can be processed by extrusion printing into liquid crystalline elastomer (LCE) elements of precise shape and morphology. These LCEs exhibit rapid and significant photomechanical response underwater, driven by moderate-intensity ultraviolet (UV) and green light, being the actuation mechanism predominantly photochemical. Inspired by nature, a biomimetic four-lapped ephyra-like LCE swimmer is printed. The periodically illumination of the entire swimmer with moderate-intensity UV and green light, induces synchronous lappet bending toward the light source and swimmer propulsion away from the light. The platform eliminates the need of localized laser beams and tracking systems to monitor the swimmer's motion through the fluid, making it a versatile tool for creating light-fueled robotic LCE free-swimmers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Sartori
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC‐Universidad de ZaragozaDepartamento de Física de la Materia CondensadaZaragoza50009Spain
| | - Rahul Singh Yadav
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC‐Universidad de ZaragozaDepartamento de Química OrgánicaZaragoza50009Spain
| | - Jesús del Barrio
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC‐Universidad de ZaragozaDepartamento de Química OrgánicaZaragoza50009Spain
| | - Antonio DeSimone
- The BioRobotics InstituteScuola Superiore Sant'AnnaPisa56127Italy
- SISSA‐Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi AvanzatiTrieste34136Italy
| | - Carlos Sánchez‐Somolinos
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC‐Universidad de ZaragozaDepartamento de Física de la Materia CondensadaZaragoza50009Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y NanomedicinaInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIZaragoza50018Spain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
van Hazendonk L, Khalil ZJ, van Grondelle W, Wijkhuijs LEA, Schreur-Piet I, Debije MG, Friedrich H. Hot Fingers: Individually Addressable Graphene-Heater Actuated Liquid Crystal Grippers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:32739-32747. [PMID: 38869014 PMCID: PMC11212024 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c06130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Liquid crystal-based actuators are receiving increased attention for their applications in wearables and biomedical or surgical devices, with selective actuation of individual parts/fingers still being in its infancy. This work presents the design and realization of two gripper devices with four individually addressable liquid-crystal network (LCN) actuators thermally driven via printed graphene-based heating elements. The resistive heat causes the all-organic actuator to bend due to anisotropic volume expansions of the splay-aligned sample. A heat transfer model that includes all relevant interfaces is presented and verified via thermal imaging, which provides good estimates of dimensions, power production, and resistance required to reach the desired temperature for actuation while maintaining safe electrical potentials. The LCN films displace up to 11 mm with a bending force of 1.10 mN upon application of 0-15 V potentials. The robustness of the LCN finger is confirmed by repetitive on/off switching for 500 cycles. Actuators are assembled into two prototypes able to grip and lift objects of small weights (70-100 mg) and perform complex actions by individually controlling one of the device's fingers to grip an additional object. Selective actuation of parts in soft robotic devices will enable more complex motions and actions to be performed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura
S. van Hazendonk
- Laboratory
of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemical
Engineering and Chemistry Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Zafeiris J. Khalil
- Laboratory
of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemical
Engineering and Chemistry Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Wilko van Grondelle
- Laboratory
of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemical
Engineering and Chemistry Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Levina E. A. Wijkhuijs
- Laboratory
of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemical
Engineering and Chemistry Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Ingeborg Schreur-Piet
- Laboratory
of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemical
Engineering and Chemistry Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
- Center
for Multiscale Electron Microscopy, Department of Chemical Engineering
and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Michael G. Debije
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
- Stimuli-responsive
Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering
and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Heiner Friedrich
- Laboratory
of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemical
Engineering and Chemistry Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
- Center
for Multiscale Electron Microscopy, Department of Chemical Engineering
and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sezen Polat D, Buurman VE, Mulder DJ, Liu D. Dual-Responsive Gradient Structured Actuator via Photopolymerization-Induced Diffusion. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202400515. [PMID: 38457259 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202400515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive materials have recently gained significant attention in the field of soft robotics, sensors, and biomimetic devices. The most facile way for the fabrication of such materials remains to endow bilayer structures which are fabricated with the combination of active and passive layers. Although, easily fabricated, these structures suffer from the generation of stress points between connection areas. In this work we develop a method to create a thin film with controlled cross-link variation across its thickness. The cross-link gradient is achieved through polymerization induced diffusion of dithiol molecules in thiol-ene network. As a result, the film exhibits bending deformation upon illumination with light or exposure to a chemical solvent, thereby demonstrating dual responsiveness. Light actuation of the film is achieved via photothermal effects due to the incorporation of dye into the system which can absorb UV light and heat the network. While solvent induced actuation is due to anisotropic swelling. Furthermore, the straightforward fabrication procedure allows for the creation of more complex deformations by patterning the film using a photomask during photopolymerization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Sezen Polat
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry - lab of Human Interactive Materials (HIM), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, Netherlands
| | - Vera E Buurman
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry - lab of Human Interactive Materials (HIM), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, Netherlands
| | - Dirk J Mulder
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry - Stimuli-responsive Materials (SFD), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, Netherlands
| | - Danqing Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry - lab of Human Interactive Materials (HIM), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yu S, Sadaba N, Sanchez-Rexach E, Hilburg SL, Pozzo LD, Altin-Yavuzarslan G, Liz-Marzán LM, de Aberasturi DJ, Sardon H, Nelson A. 4D Printed Protein-AuNR Nanocomposites with Photothermal Shape Recovery. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2024; 34:2311209. [PMID: 38966003 PMCID: PMC11221775 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202311209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
4D printing is the 3D printing of objects that change chemically or physically in response to an external stimulus over time. Photothermally responsive shape memory materials are attractive for their ability to undergo remote activation. While photothermal methods using gold nanorods (AuNRs) have been used for shape recovery, 3D patterning of these materials into objects with complex geometries using degradable materials has not been addressed. Here, we report on the fabrication of 3D printed shape memory bioplastics with photo-activated shape recovery. Protein-based nanocomposites based on bovine serum albumin (BSA), poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate and gold nanorods were developed for vat photopolymerization. These 3D printed bioplastics were mechanically deformed under high loads, and the proteins served as mechanoactive elements that unfolded in an energy-dissipating mechanism that prevented fracture of the thermoset. The bioplastic object maintained its metastable shape-programmed state under ambient conditions. Subsequently, up to 99% shape recovery was achieved within 1 min of irradiation with near-infrared light. Mechanical characterization and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analysis suggest that the proteins mechanically unfold during the shape programming step and may refold during shape recovery. These composites are promising materials for the fabrication of biodegradable shape-morphing devices for robotics and medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siwei Yu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Naroa Sadaba
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; POLYMAT and Department of Polymers and Advanced Materials: Physics, Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Basque Country UPV/EHU, Donostia-San Sebastián 20018, Spain
| | - Eva Sanchez-Rexach
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; POLYMAT and Department of Polymers and Advanced Materials: Physics, Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Basque Country UPV/EHU, Donostia-San Sebastián 20018, Spain
| | - Shayna L Hilburg
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Lilo D Pozzo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Gokce Altin-Yavuzarslan
- Molecular Engineering and Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Luis M Liz-Marzán
- CIC biomaGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 20014, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain; Biomedical Networking Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 20014, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain; Ikerbaque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
| | - Dorleta Jimenez de Aberasturi
- CIC biomaGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 20014, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain; Biomedical Networking Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 20014, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain; Ikerbaque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
| | - Haritz Sardon
- POLYMAT and Department of Polymers and Advanced Materials: Physics, Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Basque Country UPV/EHU, Donostia-San Sebastián 20018, Spain
| | - Alshakim Nelson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jin B, Chen G, Chen Y, Yang C, Zhu Z, Weng Y, Zhao Q, Xie T. Reprogramming Photoresponsive Liquid Crystalline Elastomer via Force-Directed Evaporation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:16844-16852. [PMID: 38517683 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c01076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Incorporating photothermal agents into thermoresponsive liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) offers remote and spatio-temporal control in actuation. Typically, both the light responsiveness and actuation behaviors are fixed since the agent doping and mesogen alignment are conducted before network formation. Here, we report an approach that enables programming photoresponsive LCEs after synthesis via force-directed evaporation. Different photothermal agents can be doped or removed by swelling the fully cross-linked LCEs in a specific solution, achieving the introduction and erasing of the photoresponsiveness. Moreover, the network swelling deletes the registered alignment, which allows for redefining the molecular order via re-evaporating the solvent with force imposed. This "one stone, two birds" strategy paves the way to simultaneously program/reprogram the actuation mode and responsiveness of LCEs, even in a spatio-selective manner to achieve complex actuations. Our approach is expandable to three-dimensional (3D) printed LCEs to access geometrically sophisticated shape-changing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Binjie Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- Center for X-Mechanics, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Guancong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Yishu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Chen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Zhan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Yunhao Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Tao Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rešetič A. Shape programming of liquid crystal elastomers. Commun Chem 2024; 7:56. [PMID: 38485773 PMCID: PMC10940691 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-024-01141-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are shape-morphing materials that demonstrate reversible actuation when exposed to external stimuli, such as light or heat. The actuation's complexity depends heavily on the instilled liquid crystal alignment, programmed into the material using various shape-programming processes. As an unavoidable part of LCE synthesis, these also introduce geometrical and output restrictions that dictate the final applicability. Considering LCE's future implementation in real-life applications, it is reasonable to explore these limiting factors. This review offers a brief overview of current shape-programming methods in relation to the challenges of employing LCEs as soft, shape-memory components in future devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andraž Rešetič
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Espíndola-Pérez E, Campo J, Sánchez-Somolinos C. Multimodal and Multistimuli 4D-Printed Magnetic Composite Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuators. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:2704-2715. [PMID: 38150329 PMCID: PMC10797586 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c14607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomer (LCE)-based soft actuators are being studied for their significant shape-changing abilities when they are exposed to heat or light. Nevertheless, their relatively slow response compared with soft magnetic materials limits their application possibilities. Integration of magnetic responsiveness with LCEs has been previously attempted; however, the LCE response is typically jeopardized in high volumes of magnetic microparticles (MMPs). Here, a multistimuli, magnetically active LCE (MLCE), capable of producing programmable and multimodal actuation, is presented. The MLCE, composed of MMPs within an LCE matrix, is generated through extrusion-based 4D printing that enables digital control of mesogen orientation even at a 1:1 (LCE:MMPs) weight ratio, a challenging task to accomplish with other methods. The printed actuators can significantly deform when thermally actuated as well as exhibit fast response to magnetic fields. When combining thermal and magnetic stimuli, modes of actuation inaccessible with only one input are achieved. For instance, the actuator is reconfigured into various states by using the heat-mediated LCE response, followed by subsequent magnetic addressing. The multistimuli capabilities of the MLCE composite expand its applicability where common LCE actuators face limitations in speed and precision. To illustrate, a beam-steering device developed by using these materials is presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erick
R. Espíndola-Pérez
- Departamento
de Física de la Materia Condensada, Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad
de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain
| | - Javier Campo
- Departamento
de Física de la Materia Condensada, Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad
de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain
| | - Carlos Sánchez-Somolinos
- Departamento
de Física de la Materia Condensada, Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad
de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería,
Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto
de Salud Carlos III, Zaragoza 50018, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Tabrizi M, Clement JA, Babaei M, Martinez A, Gao J, Ware TH, Shankar MR. Three-dimensional blueprinting of molecular patterns in liquid crystalline polymers. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:511-522. [PMID: 38113054 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm01374j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Exploiting the interplay of anisotropic diamagnetic susceptibility of liquid crystalline monomers and site selective photopolymerization enables the fabrication of 3D freeforms with highly refined microstructures. Utilizing chain transfer agents in the mesogenic inks presents a pathway for broadly tuning the mechanical properties of liquid crystalline polymers and their response to stimuli. In particular, the combination of 1,4-benzenedimethanethiol and tetrabromomethane is shown to enable voxelated blueprinting of molecular order, while allowing for a modulation of the crosslink density and the mechanical properties. The formulation of these monomers allows for the resolution of the voxels to approach the limits set by the coherence lengths defined by the anchoring from surfaces. These compositions demonstrate the expected thermotropic responses while allowing for their functionalization with photochromic switches to elicit photomechanical responses. Actuation strains are shown to outstrip that accomplished with prior systems that did not access chain transfer agents to modulate the structure of the macromolecular network. Test cases of this system are shown to create freeform actuators that exploit the refined director patterns during high-resolution printing. These include topological defects, hierarchically-structured light responsive grippers, and biomimetic flyers whose flight dynamics can be actively modulated via irradiation with light.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Tabrizi
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| | - J Arul Clement
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| | - Mahnoush Babaei
- Department of Aerospace Engineering & Engineering Mechanics, University of Texas at Austin, 2617 Wichita Street, C0600, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
| | - Angel Martinez
- Department of Applied Physics and Materials Science, Northern Arizona University, Science Annex, 525 S Beaver St, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA.
| | - Junfeng Gao
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| | - Taylor H Ware
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, 101 Bizzell Street, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University, 209 Reed McDonald Building, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
| | - M Ravi Shankar
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mahmood A, Perveen F, Chen S, Akram T, Irfan A. Polymer Composites in 3D/4D Printing: Materials, Advances, and Prospects. Molecules 2024; 29:319. [PMID: 38257232 PMCID: PMC10818632 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM), commonly referred to as 3D printing, has revolutionized the manufacturing landscape by enabling the intricate layer-by-layer construction of three-dimensional objects. In contrast to traditional methods relying on molds and tools, AM provides the flexibility to fabricate diverse components directly from digital models without the need for physical alterations to machinery. Four-dimensional printing is a revolutionary extension of 3D printing that introduces the dimension of time, enabling dynamic transformations in printed structures over predetermined periods. This comprehensive review focuses on polymeric materials in 3D printing, exploring their versatile processing capabilities, environmental adaptability, and applications across thermoplastics, thermosetting materials, elastomers, polymer composites, shape memory polymers (SMPs), including liquid crystal elastomer (LCE), and self-healing polymers for 4D printing. This review also examines recent advancements in microvascular and encapsulation self-healing mechanisms, explores the potential of supramolecular polymers, and highlights the latest progress in hybrid printing using polymer-metal and polymer-ceramic composites. Finally, this paper offers insights into potential challenges faced in the additive manufacturing of polymer composites and suggests avenues for future research in this dynamic and rapidly evolving field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayyaz Mahmood
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan 523808, China;
- School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu 610054, China
- School of Art and Design, Guangzhou Panyu Polytechnic, Guangzhou 511483, China
- Dongguan Institute of Science and Technology Innovation, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Fouzia Perveen
- School of Interdisciplinary Engineering & Sciences (SINES), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Sector H-12, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Shenggui Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan 523808, China;
- School of Art and Design, Guangzhou Panyu Polytechnic, Guangzhou 511483, China
- Dongguan Institute of Science and Technology Innovation, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Tayyaba Akram
- Department of Physics, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Ahmad Irfan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha 61413, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Liu Y, Yang B, Song C, Zhao Q, Xie T, Fang Z, Wu J. Multishape Programming of Shape Memory Polymer Assemblies Fabricated by Vat Photopolymerization-Based 3D Printing and Interfacial Welding. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023. [PMID: 38037349 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c14140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
The combination of three-dimensional (3D) printing and shape memory polymers (SMP) enables programmable shape morphing of complex 3D structures, which is commonly termed four-dimensional (4D) printing. The process requirements of vat photopolymerization-based 3D printing impose limitations on the molecular structure design of SMPs, making it challenging to achieve triple- or multiple-shaped memory effects. Herein, we printed SMPs with different Tg values and obtained an SMP assembly through interfacial welding. The welding process is facilitated by the dynamic exchange of hindered urethane bonds at the interface. The resulting SMP assembly exhibits a quadruple shape memory effect, enabling programmable sequential deformation. The advantage of this approach is that the molecular design and the corresponding thermodynamic properties of different welding SMP components can be independently adjusted, enabling a greater range of shape and functional variations in the final 3D SMP assembly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongqi Liu
- Ningbo Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315100, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Biru Yang
- Ningbo Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315100, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Chuhan Song
- Ningbo Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315100, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Tao Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Zizheng Fang
- ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, No. 733, Jianshe San Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou 311200, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingjun Wu
- Ningbo Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315100, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhou Z, Tang W, Yang J, Fan C. Application of 4D printing and bioprinting in cardiovascular tissue engineering. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:6403-6420. [PMID: 37599608 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm00312d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases have remained the leading cause of death worldwide for the past 20 years. The current clinical therapeutic measures, including bypass surgery, stent implantation and pharmacotherapy, are not enough to repair the massive loss of cardiomyocytes after myocardial ischemia. Timely replenishment with functional myocardial tissue via biomedical engineering is the most direct and effective means to improve the prognosis and survival rate of patients. It is widely recognized that 4D printing technology introduces an additional dimension of time in comparison with traditional 3D printing. Additionally, in the context of 4D bioprinting, both the printed material and the resulting product are designed to be biocompatible, which will be the mainstream of bioprinting in the future. Thus, this review focuses on the application of 4D bioprinting in cardiovascular diseases, discusses the bottleneck of the development of 4D bioprinting, and finally looks forward to the future direction and prospect of this revolutionary technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zijing Zhou
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Middle Renmin Road 139, 410011 Changsha, China
| | - Weijie Tang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Middle Renmin Road 139, 410011 Changsha, China.
| | - Jinfu Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Middle Renmin Road 139, 410011 Changsha, China.
| | - Chengming Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Middle Renmin Road 139, 410011 Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tao Y, Lin L, Ren X, Wang X, Cao X, Gu H, Ye Y, Ren Y, Zhang Z. Four-Dimensional Micro/Nanorobots via Laser Photochemical Synthesis towards the Molecular Scale. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1656. [PMID: 37763819 PMCID: PMC10537291 DOI: 10.3390/mi14091656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Miniaturized four-dimensional (4D) micro/nanorobots denote a forerunning technique associated with interdisciplinary applications, such as in embeddable labs-on-chip, metamaterials, tissue engineering, cell manipulation, and tiny robotics. With emerging smart interactive materials, static micro/nanoscale architectures have upgraded to the fourth dimension, evincing time-dependent shape/property mutation. Molecular-level 4D robotics promises complex sensing, self-adaption, transformation, and responsiveness to stimuli for highly valued functionalities. To precisely control 4D behaviors, current-laser-induced photochemical additive manufacturing, such as digital light projection, stereolithography, and two-photon polymerization, is pursuing high-freeform shape-reconfigurable capacities and high-resolution spatiotemporal programming strategies, which challenge multi-field sciences while offering new opportunities. Herein, this review summarizes the recent development of micro/nano 4D laser photochemical manufacturing, incorporating active materials and shape-programming strategies to provide an envisioning of these miniaturized 4D micro/nanorobots. A comparison with other chemical/physical fabricated micro/nanorobots further explains the advantages and potential usage of laser-synthesized micro/nanorobots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Tao
- Institute of Micro-Nano Optoelectronics and Terahertz Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- Postdoctoral Workstation, Zhejiang Chuangge Technology Co., Ltd., Zhuji 311899, China
| | - Liansheng Lin
- Institute of Micro-Nano Optoelectronics and Terahertz Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Xudong Ren
- Institute of Micro-Nano Optoelectronics and Terahertz Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Xuejiao Wang
- Institute of Micro-Nano Optoelectronics and Terahertz Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Xia Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Heng Gu
- Institute of Micro-Nano Optoelectronics and Terahertz Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Yunxia Ye
- Institute of Micro-Nano Optoelectronics and Terahertz Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Yunpeng Ren
- Institute of Micro-Nano Optoelectronics and Terahertz Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Zhiming Zhang
- Postdoctoral Workstation, Zhejiang Chuangge Technology Co., Ltd., Zhuji 311899, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Skačej G, Querciagrossa L, Zannoni C. On the Effects of Different trans and cis Populations in Azobenzene Liquid Crystal Elastomers: A Monte Carlo Investigation. ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS 2023; 5:5805-5815. [PMID: 37588085 PMCID: PMC10426334 DOI: 10.1021/acsapm.3c00361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
We investigate main-chain liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) formed by photoresponsive azobenzene units with different populations of trans and cis conformers (from fully trans to fully cis). We study their macroscopic properties as well as their molecular organization using extensive Monte Carlo simulations of a simple coarse-grained model where the trans and cis conformers are represented by soft-core biaxial Gay-Berne particles with size and interaction energy parameters obtained by fitting a bare bone azobenzene moiety represented at atomistic level. We find that increasing the fraction of cis conformers, as could be obtained by near-UV irradiation, shifts the nematic-isotropic transition to a lower temperature, consistently with experiment, while generating internal stress in a clamped sample. An analysis of pair distributions shows that the immediate surroundings of a bent cis molecule are slightly less dense and more orientationally disordered in comparison with that of a trans conformer. Comparing nematic and smectic LCEs, actuation in the smectic phase proved less effective, disrupting the smectic layers to some extent but preserving orientational order of the azobenzene moieties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Skačej
- Faculty
of Mathematics and Physics, University of
Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Lara Querciagrossa
- Dipartimento
di Chimica Industriale “Toso Montanari”, Università di Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, I-40136 Bologna, Italy
- CINECA, Via Magnanelli 6/3, I-40033 Casalecchio di Reno, Italy
| | - Claudio Zannoni
- Dipartimento
di Chimica Industriale “Toso Montanari”, Università di Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, I-40136 Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chen M, Gao M, Bai L, Zheng H, Qi HJ, Zhou K. Recent Advances in 4D Printing of Liquid Crystal Elastomers. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209566. [PMID: 36461147 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are renowned for their large, reversible, and anisotropic shape change in response to various external stimuli due to their lightly cross-linked polymer networks with an oriented mesogen direction, thus showing great potential for applications in robotics, bio-medics, electronics, optics, and energy. To fully take advantage of the anisotropic stimuli-responsive behaviors of LCEs, it is preferable to achieve a locally controlled mesogen alignment into monodomain orientations. In recent years, the application of 4D printing to LCEs opens new doors for simultaneously programming the mesogen alignment and the 3D geometry, offering more opportunities and higher feasibility for the fabrication of 4D-printed LCE objects with desirable stimuli-responsive properties. Here, the state-of-the-art advances in 4D printing of LCEs are reviewed, with emphasis on both the mechanisms and potential applications. First, the fundamental properties of LCEs and the working principles of the representative 4D printing techniques are briefly introduced. Then, the fabrication of LCEs by 4D printing techniques and the advantages over conventional manufacturing methods are demonstrated. Finally, perspectives on the current challenges and potential development trends toward the 4D printing of LCEs are discussed, which may shed light on future research directions in this new field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Chen
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Ming Gao
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Lichun Bai
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China
| | - Han Zheng
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - H Jerry Qi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Kun Zhou
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Vinciguerra MR, Patel DK, Zu W, Tavakoli M, Majidi C, Yao L. Multimaterial Printing of Liquid Crystal Elastomers with Integrated Stretchable Electronics. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:24777-24787. [PMID: 37163362 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c23028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) have grown in popularity in recent years as a stimuli-responsive material for soft actuators and shape reconfigurable structures. To make these material systems electrically responsive, they must be integrated with soft conductive materials that match the compliance and deformability of the LCE. This study introduces a design and manufacturing methodology for combining direct ink write (DIW) 3D printing of soft, stretchable conductive inks with DIW-based "4D printing" of LCE to create fully integrated, electrically responsive, shape programmable matter. The conductive ink is composed of a soft thermoplastic elastomer, a liquid metal alloy (eutectic gallium indium, EGaIn), and silver flakes, exhibiting both high stretchability and conductivity (order of 105 S m-1). Empirical tuning of the LCE printing parameters gives rise to a smooth surface (<10 μm) for patterning the conductive ink with controlled trace dimensions. This multimaterial printing method is used to create shape reconfigurable LCE devices with on-demand circuit patterning that could otherwise not be easily fabricated through traditional means, such as an LCE bending actuator able to blink a Morse code signal and an LCE crawler with an on/off photoresistor controller. In contrast to existing fabrication methodologies, the inclusion of the conductive ink allows for stable power delivery to surface mount devices and Joule heating traces in a highly dynamic LCE system. This digital fabrication approach can be leveraged to push LCE actuators closer to becoming functional devices, such as shape programmable antennas and actuators with integrated sensing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Vinciguerra
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, United States
| | - Dinesh K Patel
- Human Computer Interaction Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, United States
| | - Wuzhou Zu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, United States
| | - Mahmoud Tavakoli
- Institute of Systems and Robotics, Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3090-290, Portugal
| | - Carmel Majidi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, United States
| | - Lining Yao
- Human Computer Interaction Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ceamanos L, Mulder DJ, Kahveci Z, López-Valdeolivas M, Schenning APHJ, Sánchez-Somolinos C. Photomechanical response under physiological conditions of azobenzene-containing 4D-printed liquid crystal elastomer actuators. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:4083-4094. [PMID: 37092961 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb02757g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Soft and mechanically responsive actuators hold the promise to revolutionize the design and manufacturing of devices in the areas of microfluidics, soft robotics and biomedical engineering. In many of these applications, the actuators need to operate in a wet environment that can strongly affect their performance. In this paper, we report on the photomechanical response in a biological buffer of azobenzene-containing liquid crystal elastomer (LCE)-based actuators, prepared by four-dimensional (4D) printing. Although the photothermal contribution to the photoresponse is largely cancelled by the heat withdrawing capacity of the employed buffer, a significant photoinduced reversible contraction, in the range of 7% of its initial length, has been achieved under load, taking just a few seconds to reach half of the maximum contraction. Effective photomechanical work performance under physiological conditions has, therefore, been demonstrated in the 4D-printed actuators. Advantageously, the photomechanical response is not sensitive to salts present in the buffer differently to hydrogels with responses highly dependent on the fluid composition. Our work highlights the capabilities of photomechanical actuators, created using 4D printing, when operating under physiological conditions, thus showing their potential for application in the microfluidics and biomedical fields.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Ceamanos
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain.
| | - Dirk J Mulder
- Laboratory of Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Zehra Kahveci
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain.
| | - María López-Valdeolivas
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain.
| | - Albert P H J Schenning
- Laboratory of Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), 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, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Carlos Sánchez-Somolinos
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Javadzadeh M, Del Barrio J, Sánchez-Somolinos C. Melt Electrowriting of Liquid Crystal Elastomer Scaffolds with Programmed Mechanical Response. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209244. [PMID: 36459991 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Recently, significant advances have been achieved to precisely program the response of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) through extrusion-based additive manufacturing techniques; however, important challenges remain, especially when well-defined scaffolds based on ultrafine fibers are required. Here the melt electrowriting of reactive liquid crystalline inks, leading, after ultraviolet-light-induced crosslinking, to digitally positioned uniform LCE fibers with diameters ranging from hundreds of nanometers to tens of micrometers is presented, which is hardly accessible with conventional extrusion-based printing techniques. The electrowriting process induces the preferential alignment of the mesogens parallel to the fiber's axis. Such an alignment, defined by the printing path, determines the mechanical response of the crosslinked material upon stimulation. This manufacturing platform allows the preparation of open square lattice scaffolds with ultrafine fibers (a few micrometers in diameter), periods as small as 90 µm, and well-defined morphology. Additionally, the combination of accurate fiber stacking (up to 50 layers) and fiber fusion between layers leads to unprecedented microstructures composed of high-aspect-ratio LCE thin walls. The possibility of digitally controlling the printing of fibers allows the preparation complex fiber-based scaffolds with programmed and reversible shape-morphing, thus opening new avenues to prepare miniaturized actuators and smart structures for soft robotics and biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehrzad Javadzadeh
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain
| | - Jesús Del Barrio
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Química Orgánica, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain
| | - Carlos Sánchez-Somolinos
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Zaragoza, 50018, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wu J, Wang Y, Ye W, She J, Su CY. Modeling and Control Strategies for Liquid Crystal Elastomer-Based Soft Robot Actuator. JOURNAL OF ADVANCED COMPUTATIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND INTELLIGENT INFORMATICS 2023. [DOI: 10.20965/jaciii.2023.p0235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomer is a type of soft material with unique physical and chemical properties that offer a variety of possibilities in the growing field of soft robot actuators. This type of material is able to exhibit large, revertible deformation under various external stimuli, including heat, electric or magnetic fields, light, etc., which may lead to a wide range of different applications such as bio-sensors, artificial muscles, optical devices, solar cell plants, etc. With these possibilities, it is important to establish modeling and control strategies for liquid crystal elastomer-based actuators, to obtain the accurate prediction and description of its physical dynamics. However, so far, existing studies on this type of the actuators mainly focus on material properties and fabrication, the state of art on the modeling and control of such actuators is still preliminary. To gain a better understanding on current studies of the topic from the control perspective, this review provides a brief collection on recent studies on the modeling and control of the liquid crystal elastomer-based soft robot actuator. The review will introduce the deformation mechanism of the actuator, as well as basic concepts. Existing studies on the modeling and control for the liquid crystal elastomer-based actuator will be organized and introduced to provide an overview in this field as well as future insights.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jundong Wu
- School of Automation, China University of Geosciences, 388 Lumo Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430074, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Advanced Control and Intelligent Automation for Complex Systems, Wuhan 430074, China
- Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Technology for Geo-Exploration, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yawu Wang
- School of Automation, China University of Geosciences, 388 Lumo Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430074, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Advanced Control and Intelligent Automation for Complex Systems, Wuhan 430074, China
- Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Technology for Geo-Exploration, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Wenjun Ye
- Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science, Concordia University, 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W. Montreal, Quebec H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Jinhua She
- School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Technology, 1404-1 Katakuramachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0982, Japan
| | - Chun-Yi Su
- Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science, Concordia University, 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W. Montreal, Quebec H3G 1M8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Luu K, Park SY. Shape-Persistent Liquid Crystal Elastomers with Cis-Stable Crosslinkers Containing Ortho-Methyl-Substituted Azobenzene. Macromolecules 2023. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c02194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Khuong Luu
- School of Applied Chemical Engineering, Polymeric Nanomaterials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Young Park
- School of Applied Chemical Engineering, Polymeric Nanomaterials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sentjens H, Kragt AJ, Lub J, Claessen MD, Buurman VE, Schreppers J, Gongriep HA, Schenning AP. Programming Thermochromic Liquid Crystal Hetero-Oligomers for Near-Infrared Reflectors: Unequal Incorporation of Similar Reactive Mesogens in Thiol-ene Oligomers. Macromolecules 2023; 56:59-68. [PMID: 36644552 PMCID: PMC9835980 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c02041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cholesteric liquid crystal oligomers are widely researched for their interesting thermochromic properties. However, structure-property relationships to program the thermochromic properties of these oligomers have been rarely reported. In this work, we use the versatile thiol-ene click reaction to synthesize a series of hetero-oligomers and study the impact of different compositions on the thermochromic behavior of the resulting material. Characterization of the oligomers shows significantly different rates of reaction for the monomers despite their very similar structures, which leads to oligomer compositions that do not match the original reaction feed. The oligomers are then used to produce thin near-infrared reflecting coatings. The best-performing thermochromic reflector has a room-temperature reflection band that shifts a total of 510 nanometers upon heating to 120 °C. The shift is repeatable for up to 10 times with no appreciable degradation. The room temperature reflection of the coatings is shown to be tunable not only by adjusting the chiral dopant concentration but also by the ratio of the monomers. Finally, we show that the oligomers can be chemically modified by making their reactive end groups undergo a reaction with monothiol compounds. These modifications allow for further fine-tuning of liquid crystal oligomers for heat-regulating window films, for example.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henk Sentjens
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Augustinus J.J. Kragt
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
- Faculty
of Architecture, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 134, 2628 BLDelft, The Netherlands
- ClimAd
Technology, Valkenaerhof
68, 6538 TENijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Johan Lub
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Mart D.T. Claessen
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Vera E. Buurman
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Joris Schreppers
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Henk A. Gongriep
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Albert P.H.J. Schenning
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MBEindhoven, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Tasmim S, Yousuf Z, Rahman FS, Seelig E, Clevenger AJ, VandenHeuvel SN, Ambulo CP, Raghavan S, Zimmern PE, Romero-Ortega MI, Ware TH. Liquid crystal elastomer based dynamic device for urethral support: Potential treatment for stress urinary incontinence. Biomaterials 2023; 292:121912. [PMID: 36434829 PMCID: PMC9772118 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is characterized by the involuntary loss of urine due to increased intra-abdominal pressure during coughing, sneezing, or exercising. SUI affects 20-40% of the female population and is exacerbated by aging. Severe SUI is commonly treated with surgical implantation of an autologous or a synthetic sling underneath the urethra for support. These slings, however, are static, and their tension cannot be non-invasively adjusted, if needed, after implantation. This study reports the fabrication of a novel device based on liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) capable of changing shape in response to temperature increase induced by transcutaneous IR light. The shape change of the LCE-based device was characterized in a scar tissue phantom model. An in vitro urinary tract model was designed to study the efficacy of the LCE-based device to support continence and adjust sling tension with IR illumination. Finally, the device was acutely implanted and tested for induced tension changes in female multiparous New Zealand white rabbits. The LCE device achieved 5.6% ± 1.1% actuation when embedded in an agar gel with an elastic modulus of 100 kPa. The corresponding device temperature was 44.9 °C ± 0.4 °C, and the surrounding agar temperature stayed at 42.1 °C ± 0.4 °C. Leaking time in the in vitro urinary tract model significantly decreased (p < 0.0001) when an LCE-based cuff was sutured around the model urethra from 5.2min ± 1min to 2min ±0.5min when the cuff was illuminated with IR light. Normalized leak point force (LPF) increased significantly (p = 0.01) with the implantation of an LCE-CB cuff around the bladder neck of multiparous rabbits. It decreased significantly (p = 0.023) when the device was actuated via IR light illumination. These results demonstrate that LCE material could be used to fabricate a dynamic device for treating SUI in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seelay Tasmim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Zuha Yousuf
- Departments of Bioengineering and Biomedical Science, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 77004, USA
| | - Farial S Rahman
- Departments of Bioengineering and Biomedical Science, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 77004, USA
| | - Emily Seelig
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Abigail J Clevenger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Sabrina N VandenHeuvel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Cedric P Ambulo
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Dayton, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Shreya Raghavan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Philippe E Zimmern
- Department of Urology, The University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Mario I Romero-Ortega
- Departments of Bioengineering and Biomedical Science, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 77004, USA
| | - Taylor H Ware
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Emerging 4D printing strategies for on-demand local actuation & micro printing of soft materials. Eur Polym J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2022.111778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
28
|
Müller LA, Zingg A, Arcifa A, Zimmermann T, Nyström G, Burgert I, Siqueira G. Functionalized Cellulose Nanocrystals as Active Reinforcements for Light-Actuated 3D-Printed Structures. ACS NANO 2022; 16:18210-18222. [PMID: 36256903 PMCID: PMC9706808 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c05628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Conventional manufacturing techniques allow the production of photoresponsive cellulose nanocrystals (CNC)-based composites that can reversibly modify their optical, mechanical, or chemical properties upon light irradiation. However, such materials are often limited to 2D films or simple shapes and do not benefit from spatial tailoring of mechanical properties resulting from CNC alignment. Herein, we propose the direct ink writing (DIW) of 3D complex structures that combine CNC reinforcement effects with photoinduced responses. After grafting azobenzene photochromes onto the CNC surfaces, up to 15 wt % of modified nanoparticles can be introduced into a polyurethane acrylate matrix. The influence of CNC on rheological properties allows DIW of self-standing 3D structures presenting local shear-induced alignment of the active reinforcements. The printed composites, with longitudinal elastic modulus of 30 MPa, react to visible-light irradiation with 30-50% reversible softening and present a shape memory behavior. The phototunable energy absorption of 3D complex structures is demonstrated by harnessing both geometrical and photoresponsive effects, enabling dynamic mechanical responses to environmental stimuli. Functionalized CNC in 3D printable inks have the potential to allow the rapid prototyping of several devices with tailored mechanical properties, suitable for applications requiring dynamic responses to environmental changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca A.
E. Müller
- Cellulose
and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss
Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Wood
Materials Science, Institute for Building Materials, ETH-Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anita Zingg
- Cellulose
and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss
Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Wood
Materials Science, Institute for Building Materials, ETH-Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Arcifa
- Surface
Science & Coating Technologies, Empa, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Tanja Zimmermann
- Cellulose
and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss
Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Gustav Nyström
- Cellulose
and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss
Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department
of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Ingo Burgert
- Cellulose
and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss
Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Wood
Materials Science, Institute for Building Materials, ETH-Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Gilberto Siqueira
- Cellulose
and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss
Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Astam MO, Lyu P, Peixoto J, Liu D. Self-regulating electrical rhythms with liquid crystal oligomer networks in hybrid circuitry. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:7236-7244. [PMID: 36102867 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm01117d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Self-regulation is an essential aspect in the practicality of electronic systems, ranging from household heaters to robots for industrial manufacturing. In such devices, self-regulation is conventionally achieved through separate sensors working in tandem with control modules. In this paper, we harness the reversible actuating properties of liquid crystal oligomer network (LCON) polymers to design a self-regulated oscillator. A dynamic equilibrium is achieved by applying a thermally-responsive and electrically-functionalized LCON film as a dual-action component, namely as a combined electrical switch and composite actuating sensor, within a circuit. This hybrid circuit configuration, consisting of both inorganic and organic material, generates a self-regulated feedback loop which cycles regularly and indefinitely. The feedback loop cycle frequency is tunable between approximately 0.08 and 0.87 Hz by altering multiple factors, such as supplied power or LCON chemistry. Our research aims to drive the material-to-device transition of stimuli-responsive LCONs, striving towards applications in electronic soft robotics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mert O Astam
- Laboratory of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Pengrong Lyu
- Laboratory of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jacques Peixoto
- Laboratory of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Danqing Liu
- Laboratory of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE 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
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Zhang Z, Wang Y, Wang Q, Shang L. Smart Film Actuators for Biomedical Applications. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2105116. [PMID: 35038215 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202105116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Taking inspiration from the extremely flexible motion abilities in natural organisms, soft actuators have emerged in the past few decades. Particularly, smart film actuators (SFAs) demonstrate unique superiority in easy fabrication, tailorable geometric configurations, and programmable 3D deformations. Thus, they are promising in many biomedical applications, such as soft robotics, tissue engineering, delivery system, and organ-on-a-chip. In this review, the latest achievements of SFAs applied in biomedical fields are summarized. The authors start by introducing the fabrication techniques of SFAs, then shift to the topology design of SFAs, followed by their material selections and distinct actuating mechanisms. After that, their biomedical applications are categorized in practical aspects. The challenges and prospects of this field are finally discussed. The authors believe that this review can boost the development of soft robotics, biomimetics, and human healthcare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuohao Zhang
- Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Yu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Qiao Wang
- Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Luoran Shang
- Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Photomechanical materials perform mechanical work in response to illumination. Photoisomerization-based photomechanical materials may operate in different regimes depending on the intensity of the illuminating light. We examine the photoresponse of liquid crystalline azo-acrylate networks and show that a material property, the characteristic intensity of the material, defines the boundaries between different regimes. Asymptotic analysis indicates that whereas at low relative light levels, photostress is proportional to intensity, at high levels, it is proportional to fluence. Model predictions are in good agreement with the experimental results.
Collapse
|
32
|
Lugger SJD, Verbroekken RMC, Mulder DJ, Schenning APHJ. Direct Ink Writing of Recyclable Supramolecular Soft Actuators. ACS Macro Lett 2022; 11:935-940. [PMID: 35802869 PMCID: PMC9301911 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.2c00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Direct ink writing (DIW) of liquid crystal elastomers
(LCEs) has
rapidly paved its way into the field of soft actuators and other stimuli-responsive
devices. However, currently used LCE systems for DIW require postprinting
(photo)polymerization, thereby forming a covalent network, making
the process time-consuming and the material nonrecyclable. In this
work, a DIW approach is developed for printing a supramolecular poly(thio)urethane
LCE to overcome these drawbacks of permanent cross-linking. The thermo-reversible
nature of the supramolecular cross-links enables the interplay between
melt-processable behavior required for extrusion and formation of
the network to fix the alignment. After printing, the actuators demonstrated
a reversible contraction of 12.7% or bending and curling motions when
printed on a passive substrate. The thermoplastic ink enables recyclability,
as shown by cutting and printing the actuators five times. However,
the actuation performance diminishes. This work highlights the potential
of supramolecular LCE inks for DIW soft circular actuators and other
devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean J D Lugger
- Laboratory of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Ruth M C Verbroekken
- Laboratory of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk J Mulder
- Laboratory of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Albert P H J Schenning
- Laboratory of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands.,Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Feng F, Duffy D, Warner M, Biggins JS. Interfacial metric mechanics: stitching patterns of shape change in active sheets. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2022; 478:20220230. [PMID: 35814332 PMCID: PMC9240917 DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2022.0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A flat sheet programmed with a planar pattern of spontaneous shape change will morph into a curved surface. Such metric mechanics is seen in growing biological sheets, and may be engineered in actuating soft matter sheets such as phase-changing liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs), swelling gels and inflating baromorphs. Here, we show how to combine multiple patterns in a sheet by stitching regions of different shape changes together piecewise along interfaces. This approach allows simple patterns to be used as building blocks, and enables the design of multi-material or active/passive sheets. We give a general condition for an interface to be geometrically compatible, and explore its consequences for LCE/LCE, gel/gel and active/passive interfaces. In contraction/elongation systems such as LCEs, we find an infinite set of compatible interfaces between any pair of patterns along which the metric is discontinuous, and a finite number across which the metric is continuous. As an example, we find all possible interfaces between pairs of LCE logarithmic spiral patterns. By contrast, in isotropic systems such as swelling gels, only a finite number of continuous interfaces are available, greatly limiting the potential of stitching. In both continuous and discontinuous cases, we find the stitched interfaces generically carry singular Gaussian curvature, leading to intrinsically curved folds in the actuated surface. We give a general expression for the distribution of this curvature, and a more specialized form for interfaces in LCE patterns. The interfaces thus also have rich geometric and mechanical properties in their own right.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Feng
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK
| | - Daniel Duffy
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK
| | - Mark Warner
- Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK
| | - John S. Biggins
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Bauman GE, Koch JA, White TJ. Rheology of liquid crystalline oligomers for 3-D printing of liquid crystalline elastomers. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:3168-3176. [PMID: 35380153 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm00166g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystalline monomers can be oligomerized and subsequently 3-D printed to prepare liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) with spatial variation of the nematic director to create soft materials that undergo complex shape change when subject to stimulus. Here, we detail the correlation of alignment in 3-D printed LCE on the shear history of the oligomeric ink. This coupling is evident both in the polymerization of sheared LCE samples as well as steady-state rheological experiments that quantify the time-dependent flow behaviors of these complex fluids. Under a steady shear flow, oligomeric LC inks transition from a nematic state with unaligned (polydomain) orientation to a uniaxially aligned (monodomain) nematic phase over a large range of applied strain. After cessation of shear flow, the oligomeric LC inks return the polydomain orientation over approximately 30 minutes. The alignment of liquid crystalline segments in the LCE (and the associated stimuli-response of the materials) is ultimately correlated to the degree of strain applied to the ink.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grant E Bauman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, 80309, USA.
| | - Jeremy A Koch
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, 80309, USA.
| | - Timothy J White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, 80309, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Müller LAE, Demongeot A, Vaucher J, Leterrier Y, Avaro J, Liebi M, Neels A, Burgert I, Zimmermann T, Nyström G, Siqueira G. Photoresponsive Movement in 3D Printed Cellulose Nanocomposites. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:16703-16717. [PMID: 35377597 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c02154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Photoresponsive soft liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) transform light's energy into dynamic shape changes and are considered promising candidates for production of soft robotic or muscle-like devices. 3D printing allows access to elaborated geometries as well as control of the photoactuated movements; however, this development is still in its infancy and only a limited choice of LCE is yet available. Herein, we propose to introduce biocompatible and sustainable cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) into an LCE in order to facilitate the printing process by direct ink writing (DIW) and to benefit from the anisotropic mechanical properties resulting from the extrusion-induced alignment of such nanoparticles. After a first printing step where the rheological influence of CNC allows the production of self-standing structures, a doping process introduces the azobenzene photoswitches in the composite, conferring photomechanical behaviors to the printed material. This approach results in soft composites, with an elastic modulus around 20-30 MPa, that present fully reversible photosoftening of 35% and photomechanical actuation occurring less than 3 s after illumination. The presence of CNC as reinforcement particles allows precise tailoring of mechanical properties, rendering such phototriggered materials suitable candidates for the production of actuators and 3D structures with particular and dynamic load cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca A E Müller
- Cellulose and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Wood Materials Science, Institute for Building Materials, ETH-Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Adrien Demongeot
- Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites (LPAC), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, EPFL-STI-IMX-LPAC, Station 12, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joanne Vaucher
- Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites (LPAC), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, EPFL-STI-IMX-LPAC, Station 12, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yves Leterrier
- Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites (LPAC), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, EPFL-STI-IMX-LPAC, Station 12, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan Avaro
- Center for X-ray Analytics, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Marianne Liebi
- Center for X-ray Analytics, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Antonia Neels
- Center for X-ray Analytics, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Ingo Burgert
- Wood Materials Science, Institute for Building Materials, ETH-Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Tanja Zimmermann
- Cellulose and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Gustav Nyström
- Cellulose and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Gilberto Siqueira
- Cellulose and Wood Materials Laboratory, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Li Y, Liu T, Ambrogi V, Rios O, Xia M, He W, Yang Z. Liquid Crystalline Elastomers Based on Click Chemistry. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:14842-14858. [PMID: 35319184 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c21096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) have emerged as an important class of functional materials that are suitable for a wide range of applications, such as sensors, actuators, and soft robotics. The unique properties of LCEs originate from the combination between liquid crystal and elastomeric network. The control of macroscopic liquid crystalline orientation and network structure is crucial to realizing the useful functionalities of LCEs. A variety of chemistries have been developed to fabricate LCEs, including hydrosilylation, free radical polymerization of acrylate, and polyaddition of epoxy and carboxylic acid. Over the past few years, the use of click chemistry has become a more robust and energy-efficient way to construct LCEs with desired structures. This article provides an overview of emerging LCEs based on click chemistries, including aza-Michael addition between amine and acrylate, radical-mediated thiol-ene and thiol-yne reactions, base-catalyzed thiol-acrylate and thiol-epoxy reactions, copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition, and Diels-Alder cycloaddition. The similarities and differences of these reactions are discussed, with particular attention focused on the strengths and limitations of each reaction for the preparation of LCEs with controlled structures and orientations. The compatibility of these reactions with the traditional and emerging processing techniques, such as surface alignment and additive manufacturing, are surveyed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of using click chemistry for the design of LCEs with advanced functionalities and applications are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhan Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Tuan Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Veronica Ambrogi
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli 80125, Italy
| | - Orlando Rios
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Min Xia
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wanli He
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Zhou Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Ghazal AF, Zhang M, Mujumdar AS, Ghamry M. Progress in 4D/5D/6D printing of foods: applications and R&D opportunities. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 63:7399-7422. [PMID: 35225117 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2045896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
4D printing is a result of 3D printing of smart materials which respond to diverse stimuli to produce novel products. 4D printing has been applied successfully to many fields, e.g., engineering, medical devices, computer components, food processing, etc. The last two years have seen a significant increase in studies on 4D as well as 5D and 6D food printing. This paper reviews and summarizes current applications, benefits, limitations, and challenges of 4D food printing. In addition, the principles, current, and potential applications of the latest additive manufacturing technologies (5D and 6D printing) are reviewed and discussed. Presently, 4D food printing applications have mainly focused on achieving desirable color, shape, flavor, and nutritional properties of 3D printed materials. Moreover, it is noted that 5D and 6D printing can in principle print very complex structures with improved strength and less material than do 3D and 4D printing. In future, these new technologies are expected to result in significant innovations in all fields, including the production of high quality food products which cannot be produced with current processing technologies. The objective of this review is to identify industrial potential of 4D printing and for further innovation utilizing 5D and 6D printing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Fathy Ghazal
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- Agricultural Engineering Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province International Joint Laboratory on Fresh Food Smart Processing and Quality Monitoring, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Arun S Mujumdar
- Department of Bioresource Engineering, Macdonald College, McGill University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mohamed Ghamry
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Astam MO, Zhan Y, Slot TK, Liu D. Active Surfaces Formed in Liquid Crystal Polymer Networks. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:22697-22705. [PMID: 35142206 PMCID: PMC9136844 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c21024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in animating materials to develop dynamic surfaces. These dynamic surfaces can be utilized for advanced applications, including switchable wetting, friction, and lubrication. Dynamic surfaces can also improve existing technologies, for example, by integrating self-cleaning surfaces on solar cells. In this Spotlight on Applications, we describe our most recent advances in liquid crystal polymer network (LCN) dynamic surfaces, focusing on substrate-based topographies and dynamic porous networks. We discuss our latest insights in the mechanisms of deformation with the "free volume" principle. We illustrate the scope of LCN technology through various examples of photo-/electropatterning, free-volume channeling, oscillating/programmable network distortion, and porous LCNs. Finally, we close by discussing prominent applications of LCNs and their outlook.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mert O. Astam
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven AE 5612, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven AE 5612, The Netherlands
| | - Yuanyuan Zhan
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven AE 5612, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven AE 5612, The Netherlands
| | - Thierry K. Slot
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven AE 5612, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven AE 5612, The Netherlands
| | - Danqing Liu
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven AE 5612, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven AE 5612, 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, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Jeong HY, An SC, Jun YC. Light activation of 3D-printed structures: from millimeter to sub-micrometer scale. NANOPHOTONICS (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 11:461-486. [PMID: 39633788 PMCID: PMC11501357 DOI: 10.1515/nanoph-2021-0652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) printing enables the fabrication of complex, highly customizable structures, which are difficult to fabricate using conventional fabrication methods. Recently, the concept of four-dimensional (4D) printing has emerged, which adds active and responsive functions to 3D-printed structures. Deployable or adaptive structures with desired structural and functional changes can be fabricated using 4D printing; thus, 4D printing can be applied to actuators, soft robots, sensors, medical devices, and active and reconfigurable photonic devices. The shape of 3D-printed structures can be transformed in response to external stimuli, such as heat, light, electric and magnetic fields, and humidity. Light has unique advantages as a stimulus for active devices because it can remotely and selectively induce structural changes. There have been studies on the light activation of nanomaterial composites, but they were limited to rather simple planar structures. Recently, the light activation of 3D-printed complex structures has attracted increasing attention. However, there has been no comprehensive review of this emerging topic yet. In this paper, we present a comprehensive review of the light activation of 3D-printed structures. First, we introduce representative smart materials and general shape-changing mechanisms in 4D printing. Then, we focus on the design and recent demonstration of remote light activation, particularly detailing photothermal activations based on nanomaterial composites. We explain the light activation of 3D-printed structures from the millimeter to sub-micrometer scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hoon Yeub Jeong
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Chan An
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Chul Jun
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan44919, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Del Pozo M, Sol JAHP, Schenning APHJ, Debije MG. 4D Printing of Liquid Crystals: What's Right for Me? ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2104390. [PMID: 34716625 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202104390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have seen major advances in the developments of both additive manufacturing concepts and responsive materials. When combined as 4D printing, the process can lead to functional materials and devices for use in health, energy generation, sensing, and soft robots. Among responsive materials, liquid crystals, which can deliver programmed, reversible, rapid responses in both air and underwater, are a prime contender for additive manufacturing, given their ease of use and adaptability to many different applications. In this paper, selected works are compared and analyzed to come to a didactical overview of the liquid crystal-additive manufacturing junction. Reading from front to back gives the reader a comprehensive understanding of the options and challenges in the field, while researchers already experienced in either liquid crystals or additive manufacturing are encouraged to scan through the text to see how they can incorporate additive manufacturing or liquid crystals into their own work. The educational text is closed with proposals for future research in this crossover field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Del Pozo
- Laboratory for Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen A H P Sol
- Laboratory for Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Albert P H J Schenning
- Laboratory for Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Michael G Debije
- Laboratory for Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
In contrast to conventional hard actuators, soft actuators offer many vivid advantages, such as improved flexibility, adaptability, and reconfigurability, which are intrinsic to living systems. These properties make them particularly promising for different applications, including soft electronics, surgery, drug delivery, artificial organs, or prosthesis. The additional degree of freedom for soft actuatoric devices can be provided through the use of intelligent materials, which are able to change their structure, macroscopic properties, and shape under the influence of external signals. The use of such intelligent materials allows a substantial reduction of a device's size, which enables a number of applications that cannot be realized by externally powered systems. This review aims to provide an overview of the properties of intelligent synthetic and living/natural materials used for the fabrication of soft robotic devices. We discuss basic physical/chemical properties of the main kinds of materials (elastomers, gels, shape memory polymers and gels, liquid crystalline elastomers, semicrystalline ferroelectric polymers, gels and hydrogels, other swelling polymers, materials with volume change during melting/crystallization, materials with tunable mechanical properties, and living and naturally derived materials), how they are related to actuation and soft robotic application, and effects of micro/macro structures on shape transformation, fabrication methods, and we highlight selected applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Indra Apsite
- Faculty of Engineering Science, Department of Biofabrication, University of Bayreuth, Ludwig Thoma Str. 36A, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Sahar Salehi
- Department of Biomaterials, Center of Energy Technology und Materials Science, University of Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Straße 1, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Leonid Ionov
- Faculty of Engineering Science, Department of Biofabrication, University of Bayreuth, Ludwig Thoma Str. 36A, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany.,Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstr. 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
Smart soft materials are envisioned to be the building blocks of the next generation of advanced devices and digitally augmented technologies. In this context, liquid crystals (LCs) owing to their responsive and adaptive attributes could serve as promising smart soft materials. LCs played a critical role in revolutionizing the information display industry in the 20th century. However, in the turn of the 21st century, numerous beyond-display applications of LCs have been demonstrated, which elegantly exploit their controllable stimuli-responsive and adaptive characteristics. For these applications, new LC materials have been rationally designed and developed. In this Review, we present the recent developments in light driven chiral LCs, i.e., cholesteric and blue phases, LC based smart windows that control the entrance of heat and light from outdoor to the interior of buildings and built environments depending on the weather conditions, LC elastomers for bioinspired, biological, and actuator applications, LC based biosensors for detection of proteins, nucleic acids, and viruses, LC based porous membranes for the separation of ions, molecules, and microbes, living LCs, and LCs under macro- and nanoscopic confinement. The Review concludes with a summary and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for LCs as smart soft materials. This Review is anticipated to stimulate eclectic ideas toward the implementation of the nature's delicate phase of matter in future generations of smart and augmented devices and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Quan Li
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States.,Institute of Advanced Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Jiangsu Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Pozo MD, Sol JAHP, van Uden SHP, Peeketi AR, Lugger SJD, Annabattula RK, Schenning APHJ, Debije MG. Patterned Actuators via Direct Ink Writing of Liquid Crystals. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:59381-59391. [PMID: 34870984 PMCID: PMC8678986 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c20348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Soft actuators allowing multifunctional, multishape deformations based on single polymer films or bilayers remain challenging to produce. In this contribution, direct ink writing is used for generating patterned actuators, which are in between single- and bilayer films, with multifunctionality and a plurality of possible shape changes in a single object. The key is to use the controlled deposition of a light-responsive liquid crystal ink with direct ink writing to partially cover a foil at strategic locations. We found patterned films with 40% coverage of the passive substrate by an active material outperformed "standard" fully covered bilayers. By patterning the film as two stripes, a range of motions, including left- and right-handed twisting and bending in orthogonal directions, could be controllably induced in the same actuator. The partial coverage also left space for applying liquid crystal inks with other functionalities, exemplified by fabricating a light-responsive green reflective actuator whose reflection can be switched "on" and "off". The results presented here serve as a toolbox for the design and fabrication of patterned actuators with dramatically expanded shape deformation and functionality capabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc del Pozo
- Laboratory
for Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen A. H. P. Sol
- Laboratory
for Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan H. P. van Uden
- Laboratory
for Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Akhil R. Peeketi
- Center
for Responsive Soft Matter, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, India
| | - Sean J. D. Lugger
- Laboratory
for Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Ratna K. Annabattula
- Center
for Responsive Soft Matter, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, India
| | - Albert P. H. J. Schenning
- Laboratory
for Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Michael G. Debije
- Laboratory
for Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials & Devices (SFD), Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Imrie
- School of Chemical Sciences The University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
- Dodd‐Walls Centre for Quantum and Photonic Technologies Dunedin New Zealand
| | - Jianyong Jin
- School of Chemical Sciences The University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
- Dodd‐Walls Centre for Quantum and Photonic Technologies Dunedin New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Patdiya J, Kandasubramanian B. Progress in 4D printing of stimuli responsive materials. POLYM-PLAST TECH MAT 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/25740881.2021.1934016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jigar Patdiya
- Rapid Prototyping Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering,Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DU), Ministry of Defence, Girinagar, Pune India
| | - Balasubramanian Kandasubramanian
- Rapid Prototyping Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering,Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DU), Ministry of Defence, Girinagar, Pune India
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Soft elasticity optimises dissipation in 3D-printed liquid crystal elastomers. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6677. [PMID: 34795228 PMCID: PMC8602646 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27013-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Soft-elasticity in monodomain liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) is promising for impact-absorbing applications where strain energy is ideally absorbed at constant stress. Conventionally, compressive and impact studies on LCEs have not been performed given the notorious difficulty synthesizing sufficiently large monodomain devices. Here, we use direct-ink writing 3D printing to fabricate bulk (>cm3) monodomain LCE devices and study their compressive soft-elasticity over 8 decades of strain rate. At quasi-static rates, the monodomain soft-elastic LCE dissipated 45% of strain energy while comparator materials dissipated less than 20%. At strain rates up to 3000 s-1, our soft-elastic monodomain LCE consistently performed closest to an ideal-impact absorber. Drop testing reveals soft-elasticity as a likely mechanism for effectively reducing the severity of impacts - with soft elastic LCEs offering a Gadd Severity Index 40% lower than a comparable isotropic elastomer. Lastly, we demonstrate tailoring deformation and buckling behavior in monodomain LCEs via the printed director orientation.
Collapse
|
47
|
Ohzono T, Minamikawa H, Koyama E, Norikane Y. Impact of Crystallites in Nematic Elastomers on Dynamic Mechanical Properties and Adhesion. Macromolecules 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.1c01160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Ohzono
- Research Institute for Advanced Electronics and Photonics, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Minamikawa
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, AIST, 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| | - Emiko Koyama
- Research Institute for Advanced Electronics and Photonics, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| | - Yasuo Norikane
- Research Institute for Advanced Electronics and Photonics, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8565, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Lin D, Yang F, Gong D, Lin Z, Li R, Qian W, Li C, Jia S, Chen H. Magnetoactive Soft Drivers with Radial-Chain Iron Microparticles. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:34935-34941. [PMID: 34279894 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c08525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Magnetoactive elastomers (MAEs), one kind of typical novel magnetoactive driver applied in the soft robotic area, have become one of the research hotspots as they can provide biologically friendly driving methods with safe, preprogrammed, and easy-to-implement properties. In this study, novel MAEs embedding soft magnetic iron microparticles with radial chains, which can be molded in one piece, achieve 3D deformation, and co-work between multiple MAEs under single homogeneous stimuli, are proposed. Then, two kinds of novel magnetoactive drivers are established based on the proposed MAEs, which can achieve the synchronous pumping behavior of heart and the extension behavior of muscle under applied homogeneous magnetic fields. The experimental data show that (1) for the pumping behavior, the maximum instantaneous flow rate and total pumping volume can reach 200.1 and 52.3 mL/min, respectively, under 120 BPM applied harmonic magnetic field with 0-300 mT amplitude; (2) the muscle extension behavior can achieve a strain of 0.925 without a loading mass and carry a load of 40 times its own weight with a pronounced dynamic movement. It should be emphasized that the behavior of the proposed magnetoactive drivers can be excited by remote homogeneous magnetic fields, and it has great application potential in biomimetic or bioinspired soft driving systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dezhao Lin
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Fan Yang
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Di Gong
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Zhihong Lin
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Ruihong Li
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Wenbo Qian
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Chenghong Li
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Sheng Jia
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Hongwei Chen
- Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Structures (CIMS), College of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
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: 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.
Collapse
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.)
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Wang Z, Wang Y, Wang Z, He Q, Li C, Cai S. 3D Printing of Electrically Responsive PVC Gel Actuators. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:24164-24172. [PMID: 33973764 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c05082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Additive manufacturing of electrically responsive soft actuators is of great importance in designing and constructing novel soft robots and soft machines. However, there are very limited options for 3D-printable and electrically responsive soft materials. Herein, we report a strategy of 3D printing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gel actuators that are electrically controllable. We print a jellyfish-like actuator from PVC ink, which can achieve 130° bending in less than 5 s. With the multi-material 3D printing technique, we have further printed a soft actuator with a stiffness gradient that can generate undulatory motion. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, we show that a 3D-printed PVC gel-based smart window can change its transparency upon the application of voltage. The 3D printing strategy developed in this article may expand the potential applications of electrically responsive soft materials in diverse engineering fields.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Wang
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Yang Wang
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Zhijian Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Qiguang He
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Chenghai Li
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Shengqiang Cai
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| |
Collapse
|