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Lai J, Liu Y, Lu G, Yung P, Wang X, Tuan RS, Li ZA. 4D bioprinting of programmed dynamic tissues. Bioact Mater 2024; 37:348-377. [PMID: 38694766 PMCID: PMC11061618 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Setting time as the fourth dimension, 4D printing allows us to construct dynamic structures that can change their shape, property, or functionality over time under stimuli, leading to a wave of innovations in various fields. Recently, 4D printing of smart biomaterials, biological components, and living cells into dynamic living 3D constructs with 4D effects has led to an exciting field of 4D bioprinting. 4D bioprinting has gained increasing attention and is being applied to create programmed and dynamic cell-laden constructs such as bone, cartilage, and vasculature. This review presents an overview on 4D bioprinting for engineering dynamic tissues and organs, followed by a discussion on the approaches, bioprinting technologies, smart biomaterials and smart design, bioink requirements, and applications. While much progress has been achieved, 4D bioprinting as a complex process is facing challenges that need to be addressed by transdisciplinary strategies to unleash the full potential of this advanced biofabrication technology. Finally, we present future perspectives on the rapidly evolving field of 4D bioprinting, in view of its potential, increasingly important roles in the development of advanced dynamic tissues for basic research, pharmaceutics, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuwei Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Gang Lu
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Patrick Yung
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp & Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Rocky S. Tuan
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhong Alan Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
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2
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Long G, Deng Y, Zhao W, Zhou G, Broer DJ, Feringa BL, Chen J. Photoresponsive Biomimetic Functions by Light-Driven Molecular Motors in Three Dimensionally Printed Liquid Crystal Elastomers. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:13894-13902. [PMID: 38728606 PMCID: PMC11117400 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c01642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Despite the fascinating developments in design and synthesis of artificial molecular machines operating at the nanoscales, translating molecular motion along multiple length scales and inducing mechanical motion of a three-dimensional macroscopic entity remains an important challenge. The key to addressing this amplification of motion relies on the effective organization of molecular machines in a well-defined environment. By taking advantage of long-range orientational order and hierarchical structures of liquid crystals and unidirectional rotation of light-driven molecular motors, we report here photoresponsive biomimetic functions of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) by the repetitive unidirectional rotation of molecular motors using 3D printing. Molecular motors were built in the main chain of liquid crystals oligomers to serve as photoactuators. The oligomers were then used as the ink, and liquid crystal elastomers with different morphologies were printed. The obtained LCEs are able to conduct multiple types of motions including bending, helical coiling, closing of petals, and flipping of wings of a butterfly upon UV illumination, which paves the way for future design of responsive materials with enhanced complex actuating functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiying Long
- SCNU-UG
International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays,
National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Stratingh
Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Yanping Deng
- SCNU-UG
International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays,
National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- SCNU-TUE
Joint lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology
& Institute of Electronic Paper Displays, South China Academy
of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China
Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guofu Zhou
- SCNU-UG
International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays,
National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- SCNU-TUE
Joint lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology
& Institute of Electronic Paper Displays, South China Academy
of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China
Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Dirk J. Broer
- SCNU-TUE
Joint lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology
& Institute of Electronic Paper Displays, South China Academy
of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China
Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Stimuli-responsive
Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering
and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Ben L. Feringa
- SCNU-UG
International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays,
National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Stratingh
Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Jiawen Chen
- SCNU-UG
International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays,
National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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3
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Ferrer JMM, Cruz RES, Caplan S, Van Rees WM, Boley JW. Multiscale Heterogeneous Polymer Composites for High Stiffness 4D Printed Electrically Controllable Multifunctional Structures. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2405505. [PMID: 38767502 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202405505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
4D printing is an emerging field where 3D printing techniques are used to pattern stimuli-responsive materials to create morphing structures, with time serving as the fourth dimension. However, current materials utilized for 4D printing are typically soft, exhibiting an elastic modulus (E) range of 10-4 to 10 MPa during shape change. This restricts the scalability, actuation stress, and load-bearing capabilities of the resulting structures. To overcome these limitations, multiscale heterogeneous polymer composites are introduced as a novel category of stiff, thermally responsive 4D printed materials. These inks exhibit an E that is four orders of magnitude greater than that of existing 4D printed materials and offer tunable electrical conductivities for simultaneous Joule heating actuation and self-sensing capabilities. Utilizing electrically controllable bilayers as building blocks, a flat geometry is designed and printed that morphs into a 3D self-standing lifting robot, setting new records for weight-normalized load lifted and actuation stress when compared to other 3D printed actuators. Furthermore, the ink palette is employed to create and print planar lattice structures that transform into various self-supporting complex 3D shapes. These contributions are integrated into a 4D printed electrically controlled multigait crawling robotic lattice structure that can carry 144 times its own weight.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sophie Caplan
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Wim M Van Rees
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - J William Boley
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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4
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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:e2308561. [PMID: 38590131 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Sartori
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain
| | - Rahul Singh Yadav
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Departamento de Química Orgánica, 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
| | - Antonio DeSimone
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, 56127, Italy
- SISSA-Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati, Trieste, 34136, Italy
| | - 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
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5
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Sentjens H, Lub J, Kragt AJJ, Schenning APHJ. Impact of Endcap Molecules on Temperature-Responsive Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Oligomers in Structural Color Stability and Hypsochromic Shift. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202304236. [PMID: 38265541 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202304236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Cholesteric liquid crystal oligomers are an interesting class of temperature responsive structurally colored materials. However, the role of endcap molecules in these oligomers is rather unexplored. In this work, we demonstrate the role of endcap molecules on structural color stability and hypsochromic shift in temperature-responsive cholesteric liquid crystal oligomers. First, new liquid crystal monoacrylate endcap molecules are synthesized, which are then used to synthesize various cholesteric liquid crystal oligomers. In addition, cholesteric oligomers using commercial monoacrylate endcap molecules are also prepared. It is found that the molecular weight and the polydispersity of the oligomers can be tuned by the endcapping molecules. The oligomers are used to produce reflective, structurally colored coatings. It was found that the coatings using the commercial monoacrylate lose their color and crystallize over time, most likely due to the presence of crystalline dimers. The coatings containing the newly synthesized monoacrylate endcap molecules did not exhibit this crystallization, resulting in structurally colored coatings that remained stable over time. These latter coatings possessed temperature responsive hypochromic behavior, which makes them interesting for advanced optical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henk Sentjens
- Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE, Eindhoven, The, Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE, Eindhoven, The, Netherlands
| | - Johan Lub
- Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE, Eindhoven, The, Netherlands
| | - Augustinus J J Kragt
- Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE, Eindhoven, The, Netherlands
- ClimAd Technology, Valkenaerhof 68, 6538 TE, Nijmegen, The, Netherlands
| | - Albert P H J Schenning
- Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE, Eindhoven, The, Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper 3, 5612 AE, Eindhoven, The, Netherlands
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6
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Mandal A, Chatterjee K. 4D printing for biomedical applications. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:2985-3005. [PMID: 38436200 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00006d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
While three-dimensional (3D) printing excels at fabricating static constructs, it fails to emulate the dynamic behavior of native tissues or the temporal programmability desired for medical devices. Four-dimensional (4D) printing is an advanced additive manufacturing technology capable of fabricating constructs that can undergo pre-programmed changes in shape, property, or functionality when exposed to specific stimuli. In this Perspective, we summarize the advances in materials chemistry, 3D printing strategies, and post-printing methodologies that collectively facilitate the realization of temporal dynamics within 4D-printed soft materials (hydrogels, shape-memory polymers, liquid crystalline elastomers), ceramics, and metals. We also discuss and present insights about the diverse biomedical applications of 4D printing, including tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, drug delivery, in vitro models, and medical devices. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and emphasize the importance of an application-driven design approach to enable the clinical translation and widespread adoption of 4D printing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arkodip Mandal
- Department of Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560012, India.
| | - Kaushik Chatterjee
- Department of Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560012, India.
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7
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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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andraž Rešetič
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Solid State Physics Department, Jamova cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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8
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Ustunel S, Pandya H, Prévôt ME, Pegorin G, Shiralipour F, Paul R, Clements RJ, Khabaz F, Hegmann E. A Molecular Rheology Dynamics Study on 3D Printing of Liquid Crystal Elastomers. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024:e2300717. [PMID: 38445752 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202300717] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
This work presents a rheological study of a biocompatible and biodegradable liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) ink for three dimensional (3D) printing. These materials have shown that their structural variations have an effect on morphology, mechanical properties, alignment, and their impact on cell response. Within the last decade LCEs are extensively studied as potential printing materials for soft robotics applications, due to the actuation properties that are produced when liquid crystal (LC) moieties are induced through external stimuli. This report utilizes experiments and coarse-grained molecular dynamics to study the macroscopic rheology of LCEs in nonlinear shear flow. Results from the shear flow simulations are in line with the outcomes of these experimental investigations. This work believes the insights from these results can be used to design and print new material with desirable properties necessary for targeted applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senay Ustunel
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
| | - Harsh Pandya
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Marianne E Prévôt
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State University, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
| | - Gisele Pegorin
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
| | - Faeze Shiralipour
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
| | - Rajib Paul
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
| | - Robert J Clements
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Program, Kent State University, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
| | - Fardin Khabaz
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
- Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Elda Hegmann
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Program, Kent State University, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44240, USA
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9
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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:e2312263. [PMID: 38439193 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [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.
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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
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10
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Pinchin NP, Guo H, Meteling H, Deng Z, Priimagi A, Shahsavan H. Liquid Crystal Networks Meet Water: It's Complicated! ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2303740. [PMID: 37392137 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202303740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Soft robots are composed of compliant materials that facilitate high degrees of freedom, shape-change adaptability, and safer interaction with humans. An attractive choice of material for soft robotics is crosslinked networks of liquid crystal polymers (LCNs), as they are responsive to a wide variety of external stimuli and capable of undergoing fast, programmable, complex shape morphing, which allows for their use in a wide range of soft robotic applications. However, unlike hydrogels, another popular material in soft robotics, LCNs have limited applicability in flooded or aquatic environments. This can be attributed not only to the poor efficiency of common LCN actuation methods underwater but also to the complicated relationship between LCNs and water. In this review, the relationship between water and LCNs is elaborated and the existing body of literature is surveyed where LCNs, both hygroscopic and non-hygroscopic, are utilized in aquatic soft robotic applications. Then the challenges LCNs face in widespread adaptation to aquatic soft robotic applications are discussed and, finally, possible paths forward for their successful use in aquatic environments are envisaged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie P Pinchin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Hongshuang Guo
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, P.O. Box 541, Tampere, FI-33101, Finland
| | - Henning Meteling
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, P.O. Box 541, Tampere, FI-33101, Finland
| | - Zixuan Deng
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, P.O. Box 541, Tampere, FI-33101, Finland
| | - Arri Priimagi
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, P.O. Box 541, Tampere, FI-33101, Finland
| | - Hamed Shahsavan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
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11
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Leanza S, Wu S, Sun X, Qi HJ, Zhao RR. Active Materials for Functional Origami. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2302066. [PMID: 37120795 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202302066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, origami has been explored to aid in the design of engineering structures. These structures span multiple scales and have been demonstrated to be used toward various areas such as aerospace, metamaterial, biomedical, robotics, and architectural applications. Conventionally, origami or deployable structures have been actuated by hands, motors, or pneumatic actuators, which can result in heavy or bulky structures. On the other hand, active materials, which reconfigure in response to external stimulus, eliminate the need for external mechanical loads and bulky actuation systems. Thus, in recent years, active materials incorporated with deployable structures have shown promise for remote actuation of light weight, programmable origami. In this review, active materials such as shape memory polymers (SMPs) and alloys (SMAs), hydrogels, liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs), magnetic soft materials (MSMs), and covalent adaptable network (CAN) polymers, their actuation mechanisms, as well as how they have been utilized for active origami and where these structures are applicable is discussed. Additionally, the state-of-the-art fabrication methods to construct active origami are highlighted. The existing structural modeling strategies for origami, the constitutive models used to describe active materials, and the largest challenges and future directions for active origami research are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Leanza
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Shuai Wu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Xiaohao Sun
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - H Jerry Qi
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Ruike Renee Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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12
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Han JY, Noh B, Lee G, Lee C, Lee KJ, Yoon DK. Fabrication of Zigzag Parylene Nanofibers in Liquid Crystals with Electric Field-Induced Defect Structures. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:11125-11133. [PMID: 38373224 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c00611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Liquid crystals (LCs) have been adopted to induce tunable physical properties that dynamically originated from their unique intrinsic properties responding to external stimuli, such as surface anchoring condition and applied electric field, which enables them to be the template for aligning functional guest materials. We fabricate the fiber array from the electrically modulated (in-plain) nematic LC template using the chemical vapor polymerization (CVP) method. Under an electric field, an induced defect structure with a winding number of -1/2 contains a periodic zigzag disclination line. It is known that LC defect structures can trap the guest materials, such as particles and chemicals. However, the resulting fibers grow along the LC directors, not trapped in the defects. To show the versatility of our platform, nanofibers are fabricated on patterned electrodes representing the alphabets 'CVP.' In addition, the semifluorinated moieties are added to fibers to provide a hydrophobic surface. The resultant orientation-controlled fibers will be used in controllable smart surfaces that can be used in sensors, electronics, photonics, and biomimetic surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Yeon Han
- Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeongil Noh
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Gunoh Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Changjae Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Jin Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Ki Yoon
- Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- KAIST Institute for Nanocentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
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13
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Feng W, He Q, Zhang L. Embedded Physical Intelligence in Liquid Crystalline Polymer Actuators and Robots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2312313. [PMID: 38375751 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Responsive materials possess the inherent capacity to autonomously sense and respond to various external stimuli, demonstrating physical intelligence. Among the diverse array of responsive materials, liquid crystalline polymers (LCPs) stand out for their remarkable reversible stimuli-responsive shape-morphing properties and their potential for creating soft robots. While numerous reviews have extensively detailed the progress in developing LCP-based actuators and robots, there exists a need for comprehensive summaries that elucidate the underlying principles governing actuation and how physical intelligence is embedded within these systems. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in developing actuators and robots endowed with physical intelligence using LCPs. This review is structured around the stimulus conditions and categorizes the studies involving responsive LCPs based on the fundamental control and stimulation logic and approach. Specifically, three main categories are examined: systems that respond to changing stimuli, those operating under constant stimuli, and those equip with learning and logic control capabilities. Furthermore, the persisting challenges that need to be addressed are outlined and discuss the future avenues of research in this dynamic field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Feng
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiguang He
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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14
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Morales Ferrer JM, Sánchez Cruz RE, Caplan S, van Rees WM, Boley JW. Multiscale Heterogeneous Polymer Composites for High Stiffness 4D Printed Electrically Controllable Multifunctional Structures. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307858. [PMID: 38063841 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
4D printing is an emerging field where 3D printing techniques are used to pattern stimuli-responsive materials to create morphing structures, with time serving as the fourth dimension. However, current materials utilized for 4D printing are typically soft, exhibiting an elastic modulus (E) range of 10-4 to 10 MPa during shape change. This restricts the scalability, actuation stress, and load-bearing capabilities of the resulting structures. To overcome these limitations, multiscale heterogeneous polymer composites are introduced as a novel category of stiff, thermally responsive 4D printed materials. These inks exhibit an E that is four orders of magnitude greater than that of existing 4D printed materials and offer tunable electrical conductivities for simultaneous Joule heating actuation and self-sensing capabilities. Utilizing electrically controllable bilayers as building blocks, a flat geometry that morphs into a 3D self-standing lifting robot is designed and printed, setting new records for weight-normalized load lifted and actuation stress when compared to other 3D printed actuators. Furthermore, this ink palette is employed to create and print planar lattice structures that transform into various self-supporting complex 3D shapes. Finally these inks are integrated into a 4D printed electrically controlled multigait crawling robotic lattice structure that can carry 144 times its own weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier M Morales Ferrer
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Boston University, 110 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Ramón E Sánchez Cruz
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Boston University, 110 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Sophie Caplan
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Boston University, 110 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Wim M van Rees
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - J William Boley
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Boston University, 110 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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15
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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.
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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
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16
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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: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 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.
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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.
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17
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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: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 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.
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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
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18
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Kotikian A, Watkins AA, Bordiga G, Spielberg A, Davidson ZS, Bertoldi K, Lewis JA. Liquid Crystal Elastomer Lattices with Thermally Programmable Deformation via Multi-Material 3D Printing. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2310743. [PMID: 38189562 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202310743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
An integrated design, modeling, and multi-material 3D printing platform for fabricating liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) lattices in both homogeneous and heterogeneous layouts with spatially programmable nematic director order and local composition is reported. Depending on their compositional topology, these lattices exhibit different reversible shape-morphing transformations upon cycling above and below their respective nematic-to-isotropic transition temperatures. Further, it is shown that there is good agreement between their experimentally observed deformation response and model predictions for all LCE lattice designs evaluated. Lastly, an inverse design model is established and the ability to print LCE lattices with the predicted deformation behavior is demonstrated. This work opens new avenues for creating architected LCE lattices that may find potential application in energy-dissipating structures, microfluidic pumping, mechanical logic, and soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arda Kotikian
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Audrey A Watkins
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Giovanni Bordiga
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Andrew Spielberg
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Zoey S Davidson
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Katia Bertoldi
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Jennifer A Lewis
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
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19
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Yang Y, Meng L, Zhang J, Gao Y, Hao Z, Liu Y, Niu M, Zhang X, Liu X, Liu S. Near-Infrared Light-Driven MXene/Liquid Crystal Elastomer Bimorph Membranes for Closed-Loop Controlled Self-Sensing Bionic Robots. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307862. [PMID: 37985651 PMCID: PMC10787073 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
More recently, soft actuators have evoked great interest in the next generation of soft robots. Despite significant progress, the majority of current soft actuators suffer from the lack of real-time sensory feedback and self-control functions, prohibiting their effective sensing and multitasking functions. Therefore, in this work, a near-infrared-driven bimorph membrane, with self-sensing and feedback loop control functions, is produced by layer by layer (LBL) assembling MXene/PDDA (PM) onto liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) film. The versatile integration strategy successfully prevents the separation issues that arise from moduli mismatch between the sensing and the actuating layers, ultimately resulting in a stable and tightly bonded interface adhesion. As a result, the resultant membrane exhibited excellent mechanical toughness (tensile strengths equal to 16.3 MPa (||)), strong actuation properties (actuation stress equal to 1.56 MPa), and stable self-sensing (gauge factor equal to 4.72) capabilities. When applying the near-infrared (NIR) laser control, the system can perform grasping, traction, and crawling movements. Furthermore, the wing actuation and the closed-loop controlled motion are demonstrated in combination with the insect microcontroller unit (MCU) models. The remote precision control and the self-sensing capabilities of the soft actuator pave a way for complex and precise task modulation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youwei Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Lingxian Meng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Juzhong Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Yadong Gao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Zijuan Hao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Mingjun Niu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Xiaomeng Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Xuying Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Shuiren Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, P. R. China
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20
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Johann KS, Wolf A, Bonten C. Mechanical Properties of 3D-Printed Liquid Crystalline Polymers with Low and High Melting Temperatures. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 17:152. [PMID: 38204005 PMCID: PMC10779961 DOI: 10.3390/ma17010152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Additive manufacturing allows for the production of complex components using various types of materials such as plastics, metals and ceramics without the need for molding tools. In the field of high-performance polymers, semi-crystalline polymers such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or amorphous polymers such as polyetherimide (PEI) are already successfully applied. Contrary to semi-crystalline and amorphous polymers, thermotropic liquid crystalline polymers (LCPs) do not change into an isotropic liquid during melting. Instead, they possess anisotropic properties in their liquid phase. Within the scope of this work, this special group of polymers was investigated with regard to its suitability for processing by means of fused filament fabrication. Using an LCP with a low melting temperature of around 280 °C is compared to processing an LCP that exhibits a high melting temperature around 330 °C. In doing so, it was revealed that the achievable mechanical properties strongly depend on the process parameters such as the direction of deposition, printing temperature, printing speed and layer height. At a layer height of 0.10 mm, a Young's modulus of 27.3 GPa was achieved. Moreover, by employing an annealing step after the printing process, the tensile strength could be increased up to 406 MPa at a layer height of 0.15 mm. Regarding the general suitability for FFF as well as the achieved uniaxial mechanical properties, the LCP with a low melting temperature was advantageous compared to the LCP with a high melting temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai S. Johann
- Institut für Kunststofftechnik, University of Stuttgart, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
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21
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He T, Yang Y, Chen XB. Preparation, Stimulus-Response Mechanisms and Applications of Micro/Nanorobots. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:2253. [PMID: 38138422 PMCID: PMC10745970 DOI: 10.3390/mi14122253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nanorobots are highly intelligent and efficient. They can perform various complex tasks as per the external stimuli. These robots can adapt to the required functional form, depending on the different stimuli, thus being able to meet the requirements of various application scenarios. So far, microrobots have been widely used in the fields of targeted therapy, drug delivery, tissue engineering, environmental remediation and so on. Although microbots are promising in some fields, few reviews have yet focused on them. It is therefore necessary to outline the current status of these microbots' development to provide some new insights into the further evolution of this field. This paper critically assesses the research progress of microbots with respect to their preparation methods, stimulus-response mechanisms and applications. It highlights the suitability of different preparation methods and stimulus types, while outlining the challenges experienced by microbots. Viable solutions are also proposed for the promotion of their practical use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xue-Bo Chen
- School of Electronic and Information Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning, Anshan 114051, China; (T.H.); (Y.Y.)
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22
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Fallah-Darrehchi M, Zahedi P. Improvement of Intracellular Interactions through Liquid Crystalline Elastomer Scaffolds by the Alteration of Topology. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:46878-46891. [PMID: 38107894 PMCID: PMC10720303 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c06528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Preparation of inherently bioactive scaffolds has become a challenging issue owing to their complicated synthesis and nonrobust modified cell-actuating property. Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs), due to their combined specialties of liquid crystals and elastomers as well as their ability to respond to various kinds of stimuli, have reversibly led to the design of a new class of stimuli-responsive tissue-engineered scaffolds. In this line, in the first stage of this research work, synthesis and evaluation of acrylate-based LCE films (LCEfilm) encompassing mesogenic monomers are carried out. In the second step, the design of an affordable electrospinning technique for preparing LCE nanofibers (LCEfiber) as a problematic topic, thanks to the low molecular weight of the mesogenic chains of LCEs, is investigated. For this purpose, two approaches are considered, including (1) photo-cross-linking of electrospun LCEfiber and (2) blending LCE with poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) to produce morphologically stable nanofibers (PCL-LCEfiber). In the following, thermal, mechanical, and morphological evaluations show the optimized crosslinker (mol)/aliphatic spacer (mol) molar ratio of 50:50 for LCEfilm samples. On the other hand, for LCEfiber samples, the appropriate amounts of excessive mesogenic monomer and PCL/LCE (v/v) to fabricate the uniform nanofibers are determined to be 20% and 1:2, respectively. Eventually, PC12 cell compatibility and the impact of the liquid crystalline phase on the PC12 cell dynamic behavior of the samples are examined. The obtained results reveal that PC12 cells cultured on electrospun PCL-LCEfiber nanofibers with an average diameter of ∼659 nm per sample are alive and the scaffold has susceptibility for cell proliferation and actuation because of the rapid increase in cell density and number of singularity points formed in time-lapse cell imaging. Moreover, the PCL-LCEfiber nanofibrous scaffold exhibits a high performance for cell differentiation according to detailed biological evaluations such as gene expression level measurements. The time-lapse evaluation of PC12 cell flow fields confirms the significant influence of the reprogrammable liquid crystalline phase in the PCL-LCEfiber nanofibrous scaffold on topographical cue induction compared to the biodegradable PCL nanofibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahshid Fallah-Darrehchi
- Nano-Biopolymers Research
Laboratory, School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417613131, Iran
| | - Payam Zahedi
- Nano-Biopolymers Research
Laboratory, School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417613131, Iran
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23
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Jiang H, Abdullah AM, Ding Y, Chung C, L Dunn M, Yu K. 3D Printing of continuous fiber composites using two-stage UV curable resin. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2023; 10:5508-5520. [PMID: 37791456 DOI: 10.1039/d3mh01304a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
3D printing allows for moldless fabrication of continuous fiber composites with high design freedom and low manufacturing cost per part, which makes it particularly well-suited for rapid prototyping and composite product development. Compared to thermal-curable resins, UV-curable resins enable the 3D printing of composites with high fiber content and faster manufacturing speeds. However, the printed composites exhibit low mechanical strength and weak interfacial bonding for high-performance engineering applications. In addition, they are typically not reprocessable or repairable; if they could be, it would dramatically benefit the rapid prototyping of composite products with improved durability, reliability, cost savings, and streamlined workflow. In this study, we demonstrate that the recently emerged two-stage UV-curable resin is an ideal material candidate to tackle these grand challenges in 3D printing of thermoset composites with continuous carbon fiber. The resin consists primarily of acrylate monomers and crosslinkers with exchangeable covalent bonds. During the printing process, composite filaments containing up to 30.9% carbon fiber can be rapidly deposited and solidified through UV irradiation. After printing, the printed composites are subjected to post-heating. Their mechanical stiffness, strength, and inter-filament bonding are significantly enhanced due to the bond exchange reactions within the thermoset matrix. Furthermore, the utilization of the two-stage curable resin enables the repair, reshaping, and recycling of 3D printed thermosetting composites. This study represents the first detailed study to explore the benefits of using two-stage UV curable resins for composite printing. The fundamental understanding could potentially be extended to other types of two-stage curable resins with different molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Jiang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217, USA.
| | - Arif M Abdullah
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217, USA.
| | - Yuchen Ding
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217, USA.
| | - Christopher Chung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217, USA.
| | - Martin L Dunn
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217, USA.
| | - Kai Yu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217, USA.
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24
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Bauman GE, White TJ. Rheology of oligomer melts in the nematic and isotropic states. SOFT MATTER 2023; 19:8882-8888. [PMID: 37955179 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm01084h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Oligomers prepared by chain extension of liquid crystalline monomers are thermotropic. The alignment of liquid crystalline oligomers to shear flow via direct ink write printing is an increasingly popular approach to prepare aligned and 3-D printed liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs). Here, we are concerned with the contribution of order and thermal history on the rheological properties of liquid crystalline. When the oligomers begin in a polydomain nematic state, the transition to an aligned nematic state occurs gradually over a wide range of shear rates. Conversely, when the oligomers begin in an isotropic state they behave as a Newtonian fluid until a critical shear rate is reached, at which point they align in a critical manner. It is shown that by either decreasing liquid crystalline content or increasing temperature, the viscosity of the oligomer melt decreases while this critical shear rate increases. In addition, the normal stress of oligomers is positive over all shear rates but decreases significantly in magnitude with increasing temperature. By combining the analysis of both temperature and liquid crystalline content, it is demonstrated that the temperature relative to the nematic-isotropic transition temperature is key to the oligomers' unique flow behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant E Bauman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 596 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| | - Timothy J White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 596 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, 027 UCB, Boulder, CO 80303, USA
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25
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Jin B, Zhu Z, Wong TW, Chen G. Network Topology Optimization for Alignment Programming of a Dynamic Liquid Crystalline Organo-Gel. ACS Macro Lett 2023; 12:1486-1490. [PMID: 37874195 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.3c00512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) exhibit muscle-like actuation upon an external stimulus. To control this, various alignment programming strategies have been developed over the past decades. Among them, force-directed solvent evaporation, namely, that the alignment depends on the applied external force during solvent evaporation, is appreciated for its universality in material design and versatility in attainable actuations. Here, we investigate the influence of network topology on the alignment programming of a liquid crystalline (LC) organo-gel via varying feeding ratios of the monomers. As a result, distinct self-supporting actuations can be repeatedly introduced into a topology-optimized LC organo-gel. Beyond this, the bond exchange reaction of the embedded ester groups can be activated upon heating, which enables alignment manipulation based on dynamic network reconfiguration after drying. The availability of inviting two distinct programming strategies into one LCE network allows us to regulate the LCE alignment at both the gel and dried states, offering ample room to diversify actuation manners. Our design principle shall be adopted by other dynamic LCE systems owing to its maneuverability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binjie Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tuck-Whye Wong
- Membrane Technology Research Centre, School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Guancong Chen
- College of Material, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Organosilicon Chemistry and Material Technology, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
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26
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Qiu W, He X, Fang Z, Wang Y, Dong K, Zhang G, Xu X, Ge Q, Xiong Y. Shape-Tunable 4D Printing of LCEs via Cooling Rate Modulation: Stimulus-Free Locking of Actuated State at Room Temperature. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:47509-47519. [PMID: 37769329 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c10210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) have garnered considerable attention in the field of four-dimensional (4D) printing due to their large, reversible, and anisotropic shape-morphing capabilities. By utilizing direct ink writing, intricate LCE structures with programmable shape morphing can be achieved. However, the maintenance of the actuated state for LCEs requires continuous and substantial external stimuli, presenting challenges for practical applications, particularly under ambient conditions. This study reports a straightforward and effective physical approach to lock the actuated state of LCEs through rapid cooling while preserving their reversible performance. Rapid cooling significantly reduces the mobility of the lightly cross-linked network in LCEs, resulting in a notably slow recovery of mesogen alignment. As a result, the locked LCE structures retain their actuated state even at room temperature. Moreover, we demonstrate the ability to achieve tunable shapes between the original and actuated states by modulating the cooling rate, i.e., varying the temperature and type of cooling medium. The proposed method opens up new possibilities to achieve stable and tunable shape locking of soft devices for engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanglin Qiu
- School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Xiangnan He
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Zeming Fang
- School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Yaohui Wang
- School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Ke Dong
- School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Guoquan Zhang
- School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Xuguang Xu
- School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Qi Ge
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Yi Xiong
- School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
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27
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Duffy D, McCracken JM, Hebner TS, White TJ, Biggins JS. Lifting, Loading, and Buckling in Conical Shells. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2023; 131:148202. [PMID: 37862652 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.131.148202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomer films that morph into cones are strikingly capable lifters. Thus motivated, we combine theory, numerics, and experiments to reexamine the load-bearing capacity of conical shells. We show that a cone squashed between frictionless surfaces buckles at a smaller load, even in scaling, than the classical Seide-Koiter result. Such buckling begins in a region of greatly amplified azimuthal compression generated in an outer boundary layer with oscillatory bend. Experimentally and numerically, buckling then grows subcritically over the full cone. We derive a new thin-limit formula for the critical load, ∝t^{5/2}, and validate it numerically. We also investigate deep postbuckling, finding further instabilities producing intricate states with multiple Pogorelov-type curved ridges arranged in concentric circles or Archimedean spirals. Finally, we investigate the forces exerted by such states, which limit lifting performance in active cones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Duffy
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Joselle M McCracken
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80309, USA
| | - Tayler S Hebner
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80309, USA
| | - Timothy J White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80309, USA
| | - John S Biggins
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, United Kingdom
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28
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Fan Y, Liu T, Li Y, Miao X, Chen B, Ding J, Dong Z, Rios O, Bao B, Lin Q, Zhu L. One-Step Manufacturing of Supramolecular Liquid-Crystal Elastomers by Stress-Induced Alignment and Hydrogen Bond Exchange. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202308793. [PMID: 37496468 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202308793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Liquid-crystal elastomers (LCEs) capable of performing large and reversible deformation in response to an external stimulus are an important class of soft actuators. However, their manufacturing process typically involves a multistep approach that requires harsh conditions. For the very first time, LCEs with customized geometries that can be manufactured by a rapid one-step approach at room temperature are developed. The LCEs are hydrogen bond (H-bond) crosslinked main chain polymers comprising flexible short side chains. Applying a stretching/shear force to the LCE can simultaneously induce mesogen alignment and H-bond exchange, allowing for the formation of well-aligned LCE networks stabilized by H-bonds. Based on this working principle, soft actuators in fibers and 2D/3D objects can be manufactured by mechanical stretching or melt extrusion within a short time (e.g. <1 min). These actuators can perform reversible macroscopic motions with large, controlled deformations up to 38 %. The dynamic nature of H-bonds also provides the actuators with reprocessability and reprogrammability. Thus, this work opens the way for the one-step and custom manufacturing of soft actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuexin Fan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Tuan Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Yuzhan Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
| | - Xuepei Miao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Materials, Changzhou Institute of Technology, Changzhou, 213032, P. R. China
| | - Baihang Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Jian Ding
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Zhixiang Dong
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
| | - Orlando Rios
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Bingkun Bao
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Qiuning Lin
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Linyong Zhu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
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29
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Zhang Z, Yang X, Zhao Y, Ye F, Shang L. Liquid Crystal Materials for Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2300220. [PMID: 37235719 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202300220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal is a state of matter being intermediate between solid and liquid. Liquid crystal materials exhibit both orientational order and fluidity. While liquid crystals have long been highly recognized in the display industry, in recent decades, liquid crystals provide new opportunities into the cross-field of material science and biomedicine due to their biocompatibility, multifunctionality, and responsiveness. In this review, the latest achievements of liquid crystal materials applied in biomedical fields are summarized. The start is made by introducing the basic concepts of liquid crystals, and then shifting to the components of liquid crystals as well as functional materials derived therefrom. After that, the ongoing and foreseeable applications of liquid crystal materials in the biomedical field with emphasis put on several cutting-edge aspects, including drug delivery, bioimaging, tissue engineering, implantable devices, biosensing, and wearable devices are discussed. It is hoped that this review will stimulate ingenious ideas for the future generation of liquid crystal-based drug development, artificial implants, disease diagnosis, health status monitoring, and beyond.
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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
| | - Xinyuan Yang
- 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
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- 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
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Fangfu Ye
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325001, 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
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
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30
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Sun J, Liao W, Yang Z. Additive Manufacturing of Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuators Based on Knitting Technology. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2302706. [PMID: 37278691 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202302706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) exhibits large and reversible deformability originating from the alignment of liquid crystal mesogens. Additive manufacturing provides high controllability in the alignment and shaping process of LCE actuators. However, it still remains a challenge to customize LCE actuators with both diverse 3D deformability and recyclability. In this study, a new strategy is developed to exploit knitting technique to additively manufacture LCE actuators. The obtained LCE actuators are fabric-structured with designed geometry and deformability. By accurately adjusting the parameters of the knitting patterns as modules, diverse geometry is pixel-wise designed, and complex 3D deformations including bending, twisting, and folding are quantitatively controlled. In addition, the fabric-structured LCE actuators can be threaded, stitched, and reknitted to achieve advanced geometry, integrated multi-functions and efficient recyclability. This approach allows the fabrication of versatile LCE actuators with potential applications in smart textiles and soft robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Sun
- Key Lab of Organic Optoelectronics and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Wei Liao
- Key Lab of Organic Optoelectronics and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zhongqiang Yang
- Key Lab of Organic Optoelectronics and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Laboratory of Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
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31
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Zhang Y, Wang X, Yang W, Yan H, Zhang X, Han D, He Y, Li C, Sun L. Programmable Complex Shape Changing of Polysiloxane Main-Chain Liquid Crystalline Elastomers. Molecules 2023; 28:4858. [PMID: 37375413 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28124858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are shape-morphing materials whose large and reversible shape transformations are caused by the coupling between the mobile anisotropic properties of liquid crystal (LC) units and the rubber elastic of polymer networks. Their shape-changing behaviors under certain stimuli are largely directed by the LC orientation; therefore, various strategies have been developed to spatially modulate the LC alignments. However, most of these methods are limited as they require complex fabrication technologies or have intrinsic limitations in applicability. To address this issue, programmable complex shape changes in some LCE types, such as polysiloxane side-chain LCEs, thiol-acrylate main-chain LCEs, etc., were achieved by using a mechanical alignment programming process coupled with two-step crosslinking. Here, we report a polysiloxane main-chain LCE with programmable 2- and 3D shape-changing abilities that were created by mechanically programming the polydomain LCE with two crosslinking steps. The resulting LCEs exhibited a reversible thermal-induced shape transformation between the initial and programmed shapes due to the two-way memory between the first and second network structures. Our findings expand on the applications of LCE materials in actuators, soft robotics, and smart structures where arbitrary and easily programmed shape morphing is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhe Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Xiuxiu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Wenlong Yang
- Department of Applied Science, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Huixuan Yan
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Dongxu Han
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Yifan He
- Institute of Regulatory Science, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Chensha Li
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Liguo Sun
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering Process and Technology for High-Efficiency Conversion School of Chemistry and Material Science, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
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32
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Chen M, Gao M, Bai L, Zheng H, Qi HJ, Zhou K. Recent Advances in 4D Printing of Liquid Crystal Elastomers. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209566. [PMID: 36461147 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are renowned for their large, reversible, and anisotropic shape change in response to various external stimuli due to their lightly cross-linked polymer networks with an oriented mesogen direction, thus showing great potential for applications in robotics, bio-medics, electronics, optics, and energy. To fully take advantage of the anisotropic stimuli-responsive behaviors of LCEs, it is preferable to achieve a locally controlled mesogen alignment into monodomain orientations. In recent years, the application of 4D printing to LCEs opens new doors for simultaneously programming the mesogen alignment and the 3D geometry, offering more opportunities and higher feasibility for the fabrication of 4D-printed LCE objects with desirable stimuli-responsive properties. Here, the state-of-the-art advances in 4D printing of LCEs are reviewed, with emphasis on both the mechanisms and potential applications. First, the fundamental properties of LCEs and the working principles of the representative 4D printing techniques are briefly introduced. Then, the fabrication of LCEs by 4D printing techniques and the advantages over conventional manufacturing methods are demonstrated. Finally, perspectives on the current challenges and potential development trends toward the 4D printing of LCEs are discussed, which may shed light on future research directions in this new field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Chen
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Ming Gao
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Lichun Bai
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China
| | - Han Zheng
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - H Jerry Qi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Kun Zhou
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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33
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Khandagale P, Breitzman T, Majidi C, Dayal K. Statistical field theory for nonlinear elasticity of polymer networks with excluded volume interactions. Phys Rev E 2023; 107:064501. [PMID: 37464704 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.107.064501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Polymer networks formed by cross linking flexible polymer chains are ubiquitous in many natural and synthetic soft-matter systems. Current micromechanics models generally do not account for excluded volume interactions except, for instance, through imposing a phenomenological incompressibility constraint at the continuum scale. This work aims to examine the role of excluded volume interactions on the mechanical response. The approach is based on the framework of the self-consistent statistical field theory of polymers, which provides an efficient mesoscale approach that enables the accounting of excluded volume effects without the expense of large-scale molecular modeling. A mesoscale representative volume element is populated with multiple interacting chains, and the macroscale nonlinear elastic deformation is imposed by mapping the end-to-end vectors of the chains by this deformation. In the absence of excluded volume interactions, it recovers the closed-form results of the classical theory of rubber elasticity. With excluded volume interactions, the model is solved numerically in three dimensions using a finite element method to obtain the energy, stresses, and linearized moduli under imposed macroscale deformation. Highlights of the numerical study include: (i) the linearized Poisson's ratio is very close to the incompressible limit without a phenomenological imposition of incompressibility; (ii) despite the harmonic Gaussian chain as a starting point, there is an emergent strain-softening and strain-stiffening response that is characteristic of real polymer networks, driven by the interplay between the entropy and the excluded volume interactions; and (iii) the emergence of a deformation-sensitive localization instability at large excluded volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratik Khandagale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
| | - Timothy Breitzman
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, USA
| | - Carmel Majidi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
| | - Kaushik Dayal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Center for Nonlinear Analysis, Department of Mathematical Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Pittsburgh Quantum Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, USA
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34
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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: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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.
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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
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35
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Li S, Song Z, Fan Y, Wei D, Liu Y. Four-Dimensional Printing of Temperature-Responsive Liquid Crystal Elastomers with Programmable Shape-Changing Behavior. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:biomimetics8020196. [PMID: 37218782 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8020196] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are polymer networks that exhibit anisotropic liquid crystalline properties while maintaining the properties of elastomers, presenting reversible high-speed and large-scale actuation in response to external stimuli. Herein, we formulated a non-toxic, low-temperature liquid crystal (LC) ink for temperature-controlled direct ink writing 3D printing. The rheological properties of the LC ink were verified under different temperatures given the phase transition temperature of 63 °C measured by the DSC test. Afterwards, the effects of printing speed, printing temperature, and actuation temperature on the actuation strain of printed LCEs structures were investigated within adjustable ranges. In addition, it was demonstrated that the printing direction can modulate the LCEs to exhibit different actuation behaviors. Finally, by sequentially conforming structures and programming the printing parameters, it showed the deformation behavior of a variety of complex structures. By integrating with 4D printing and digital device architectures, this unique reversible deformation property will help LCEs presented here apply to mechanical actuators, smart surfaces, micro-robots, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyi Li
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering (Ministry of Education), Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Zhengyi Song
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering (Ministry of Education), Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Yuyan Fan
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering (Ministry of Education), Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Dongsong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering (Ministry of Education), Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering (Ministry of Education), Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
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36
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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: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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.
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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
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Stepulane A, Ahlgren K, Rodriguez-Palomo A, Rajasekharan AK, Andersson M. Lyotropic liquid crystal elastomers for drug delivery. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2023; 226:113304. [PMID: 37062225 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Silicone elastomers like polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) possess a combination of attractive material and biological properties motivating their widespread use in biomedical applications. Development of elastomers with capacity to deliver active therapeutic substances in the form of drugs is of particular interest to produce medical devices with added functionality. In this work, silicone-based lyotropic liquid crystal elastomers with drug-eluting functionality were developed using PDMS and triblock copolymer (diacrylated Pluronic F127, DA-F127). Various ternary PDMS-DA-F127-H2O compositions were explored and evaluated. Three compositions were found to have specific properties of interest and were further investigated for their nanostructure, mechanical properties, water retention capacity, and morphology. The ability of the elastomers to encapsulate and release polar and nonpolar substances was demonstrated using vancomycin and ibuprofen as model drugs. It was shown that the materials could deliver both types of drugs with a sustained release profile for up to 6 and 5 days for vancomycin and ibuprofen, respectively. This works demonstrates a lyotropic liquid crystal, silicone-based elastomer with tailorable mechanical properties, water retention capacity and ability to host and release polar and nonpolar active substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annija Stepulane
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg SE-412 96, Sweden; Amferia AB, Astra Zeneca BioVentureHub c/o Astra Zeneca, Pepparedsleden 1, Mölndal SE-431 83, Sweden
| | - Kajsa Ahlgren
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg SE-412 96, Sweden
| | | | - Anand Kumar Rajasekharan
- Amferia AB, Astra Zeneca BioVentureHub c/o Astra Zeneca, Pepparedsleden 1, Mölndal SE-431 83, Sweden
| | - Martin Andersson
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg SE-412 96, Sweden; Amferia AB, Astra Zeneca BioVentureHub c/o Astra Zeneca, Pepparedsleden 1, Mölndal SE-431 83, Sweden.
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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: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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.
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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
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Yang J, Zhang H, Berdin A, Hu W, Zeng H. Dandelion-Inspired, Wind-Dispersed Polymer-Assembly Controlled by Light. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206752. [PMID: 36574479 PMCID: PMC9982548 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The rise of stimuli-responsive polymers has brought about a wealth of materials for small-scale, wirelessly controlled soft-bodied robots. Thinking beyond conventional robotic mobilities already demonstrated in synthetic systems, such as walking, swimming and jumping, flying in air by dispersal, gliding, or even hovering is a frontier yet to be explored by responsive materials. The demanding requirements for actuator's performance, lightweight, and effective aerodynamic design underlie the grand challenges. Here, a soft matter-based porous structure capable of wind-assisted dispersal and lift-off/landing action under the control of a light beam is reported. The design is inspired by the seed of dandelion, resembling several biomimetic features, i.e., high porosity, lightweight, and separated vortex ring generation under a steady wind flow. Superior to its natural counterparts, this artificial seed is equipped with a soft actuator made of light-responsive liquid crystalline elastomer, which induces reversible opening/closing actions of the bristles upon visible light excitation. This shape-morphing enables manual tuning of terminal velocity, drag coefficient, and wind threshold for dispersal. Optically controlled wind-assisted lift-off and landing actions, and a light-induced local accumulation in descending structures are demonstrated. The results offer novel approaches for wirelessly controlled, miniatured devices that can passively navigate over a large aerial space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Yang
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural SciencesTampere UniversityP.O. Box 541TampereFI‐33101Finland
| | - Hang Zhang
- Department of Applied PhysicsAalto UniversityP.O. Box 15100EspooFI‐02150Finland
| | - Alex Berdin
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural SciencesTampere UniversityP.O. Box 541TampereFI‐33101Finland
| | - Wenqi Hu
- Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Stuttgart70569StuttgartGermany
| | - Hao Zeng
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural SciencesTampere UniversityP.O. Box 541TampereFI‐33101Finland
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40
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Yang C, Xiao Y, Hu L, Chen J, Zhao CX, Zhao P, Ruan J, Wu Z, Yu H, Weitz DA, Chen D. Stimuli-Triggered Multishape, Multimode, and Multistep Deformations Designed by Microfluidic 3D Droplet Printing. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207073. [PMID: 36642808 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Elastomers generally possess low Young's modulus and high failure strain, which are widely used in soft robots and intelligent actuators. However, elastomers generally lack diverse functionalities, such as stimulated shape morphing, and a general strategy to implement these functionalities into elastomers is still challenging. Here, a microfluidic 3D droplet printing platform is developed to design composite elastomers architected with arrays of functional droplets. Functional droplets with controlled size, composition, position, and pattern are designed and implemented in the composite elastomers, imparting functional performances to the systems. The composited elastomers are sensitive to stimuli, such as solvent, temperature, and light, and are able to demonstrate multishape (bow- and S-shaped), multimode (gradual and sudden), and multistep (one- and two-step) deformations. Based on the unique properties of droplet-embedded composite elastomers, a variety of stimuli-responsive systems are developed, including designable numbers, biomimetic flowers, and soft robots, and a series of functional performances are achieved, presenting a facile platform to impart diverse functionalities into composite elastomers by microfluidic 3D droplet printing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjing Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310027, P. R. China
- College of Energy Engineering and State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
| | - Yao Xiao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310027, P. R. China
| | - Lingjie Hu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310027, P. R. China
| | - Jingyi Chen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310027, P. R. China
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Chun-Xia Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - Peng Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
| | - Jian Ruan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
| | - Ziliang Wu
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
| | - Haifeng Yu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - David A Weitz
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310027, P. R. China
- College of Energy Engineering and State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
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41
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Bauman GE, Hoang JD, Toney MF, White TJ. Degree of Orientation in Liquid Crystalline Elastomers Defines the Magnitude and Rate of Actuation. ACS Macro Lett 2023; 12:248-254. [PMID: 36715430 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.2c00754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The anisotropy of liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) is derived from the interaction-facilitated orientation of the molecular constituents. Here, we correlate the thermomechanical response of a series of LCEs subjected to mechanical alignment to measurements of the Hermans orientation parameter. The LCEs were systematically prepared with varying concentrations of liquid crystalline mesogens, which affects the relative degree of achievable order. These compositions were subject to varying degrees of mechanical alignment to prepare LCEs with orientations that span a wide range of orientation parameters. The stimuli-response of the LCEs indicates that the liquid crystalline content defines the temperature of actuation, whereas the orientation parameter of the LCE is intricately correlated to both the total actuation strain of the LCE as well as the rate of thermomechanical response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant E Bauman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Jonathan D Hoang
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, 613 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80303, United States
| | - Michael F Toney
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States.,Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, 613 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80303, United States.,Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, 027 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Timothy J White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States.,Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, 613 UCB, Boulder, Colorado 80303, United States
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42
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Liao W, Yang Z. 3D printing programmable liquid crystal elastomer soft pneumatic actuators. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2023; 10:576-584. [PMID: 36468657 DOI: 10.1039/d2mh01001a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Soft pneumatic actuators (SPAs) rely on anisotropic mechanical properties to generate specific motions after inflation. To achieve mechanical anisotropy, additional stiff materials or heterogeneous structures are typically introduced in isotropic base materials. However, the inherent limitations of these strategies may lead to potential interfacial problems or inefficient material usage. Herein, we develop a new strategy for fabricating SPAs based on an aligned liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) by a modified 3D printing technology. A rotating substrate enables the one-step fabrication of tubular LCE-SPAs with designed alignments in three dimensions. The alignment can be precisely programmed through printing, resulting in intrinsic mechanical anisotropy of the LCE. With a specially designed alignment, LCE-SPAs can achieve basic motions-contraction, elongation, bending, and twisting-and accomplish diverse tasks, e.g., grabbing objects and mixing water. This study provides a new perspective for the design and fabrication of SPAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liao
- Key Laboratory of Organic Optoelectronics & Molecular Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhongqiang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Organic Optoelectronics & Molecular Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- Laboratory of Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Hebner TS, Korner K, Bowman CN, Bhattacharya K, White TJ. Leaping liquid crystal elastomers. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eade1320. [PMID: 36652507 PMCID: PMC9848472 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade1320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Snap-through mechanisms are pervasive in everyday life in biological systems, engineered devices, and consumer products. Snap-through transitions can be realized in responsive materials via stimuli-induced mechanical instability. Here, we demonstrate a rapid and powerful snap-through response in liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs). While LCEs have been extensively examined as material actuators, their deformation rate is limited by the second-order character of their phase transition. In this work, we locally pattern the director orientation of LCEs and fabricate mechanical elements with through-thickness (functionally graded) modulus gradients to realize stimuli-induced responses as fast as 6 ms. The rapid acceleration and associated force output of the LCE elements cause the elements to leap to heights over 200 times the material thickness. The experimental examination in functionally graded LCE elements is complemented with computational evaluation of the underlying mechanics. The experimentally validated model is then exercised as a design tool to guide functional implementation, visualized as directional leaping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayler S. Hebner
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Kevin Korner
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Christopher N. Bowman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Kaushik Bhattacharya
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Timothy J. White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
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44
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Brighenti R, Cosma MP. Multiphysics modelling of light-actuated liquid crystal elastomers. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2022.0417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) represent a promising class of responsive polymers whose physical properties are peculiar to both fluids and solids. Thanks to their microscale structure made of elongated rigid molecules (mesogens)—characterized by their capability to reversibly switch from an isotropic to an ordered state—LCEs exhibit a number of remarkable physical effects, such as self-deformation and mechanical actuation triggered by external stimuli. Efficient and physics-based modelling, aimed at designing and optimizing LCE-based devices (such as artificial muscles, deployable structures, soft actuators, etc.), is a fundamental tool to quantitatively describe their mechanical behaviour in real applications. In the present study, we illustrate the multi-physics modelling of light-driven deformation of LCEs, based on the photo-thermal energy conversion. The role played by the light diffusion and heat transfer within the medium is considered and their effect on the obtainable actuation is studied through numerical simulations based on the multi-physics theory developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Brighenti
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 181/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Mattia P. Cosma
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 181/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
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45
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Dominici S, Kamranikia K, Mougin K, Spangenberg A. Smart Nematic Liquid Crystal Polymers for Micromachining Advances. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:124. [PMID: 36677185 PMCID: PMC9860665 DOI: 10.3390/mi14010124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The miniaturization of tools is an important step in human evolution to create faster devices as well as precise micromachines. Studies around this topic have allowed the creation of small-scale objects capable of a wide range of deformation to achieve complex tasks. Molecular arrangements have been investigated through liquid crystal polymer (LCP) to program such a movement. Smart polymers and hereby liquid crystal matrices are materials of interest for their easy structuration properties and their response to external stimuli. However, up until very recently, their employment at the microscale was mainly limited to 2D structuration. Among the numerous issues, one concerns the ability to 3D structure the material while controlling the molecular orientation during the polymerization process. This review aims to report recent efforts focused on the microstructuration of LCP, in particular those dealing with 3D microfabrication via two-photon polymerization (TPP). Indeed, the latter has revolutionized the production of 3D complex micro-objects and is nowadays recognized as the gold standard for 3D micro-printing. After a short introduction highlighting the interest in micromachines, some basic principles of liquid crystals are recalled from the molecular aspect to their implementation. Finally, the possibilities offered by TPP as well as the way to monitor the motion into the fabricated microrobots are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Dominici
- Institut de Science des Matériaux de Mulhouse (IS2M), CNRS–UMR 7361, Université de Haute-Alsace, 15 rue Jean Starcky, 68057 Mulhouse, France
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Keynaz Kamranikia
- Institut de Science des Matériaux de Mulhouse (IS2M), CNRS–UMR 7361, Université de Haute-Alsace, 15 rue Jean Starcky, 68057 Mulhouse, France
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Karine Mougin
- Institut de Science des Matériaux de Mulhouse (IS2M), CNRS–UMR 7361, Université de Haute-Alsace, 15 rue Jean Starcky, 68057 Mulhouse, France
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Arnaud Spangenberg
- Institut de Science des Matériaux de Mulhouse (IS2M), CNRS–UMR 7361, Université de Haute-Alsace, 15 rue Jean Starcky, 68057 Mulhouse, France
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
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46
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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: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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.
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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.
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47
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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 2022; 56:59-68. [PMID: 36644552 PMCID: PMC9835980 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c02041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [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.
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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,
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48
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RFID-based sensing in smart packaging for food applications: A review. FUTURE FOODS 2022; 6:100198. [PMID: 36276606 PMCID: PMC9576266 DOI: 10.1016/j.fufo.2022.100198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The global pandemic COVID-19 has led to an increase in the number of people purchasing food online, which has brought to a higher demand on the food supply chain. Such as the need to collect more information related to food safety and quality in real-time. Strengthening management of food logistics information flow can reduce food loss and waste and bring better quality and safety of food to consumers. In this review, the importance and applicability of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to smart food packaging are described. This study emphasizes the recent advancement of the RFID tags in humidity, temperature, gas, pH, integrity, and traceability sensor applications in connection with food packaging. RFID sensors are more suitable for smart packaging both in terms of sensing ability and data transmission. A simpler, low-cost, more robust and less power-demanding sensors network is the development direction of smart packaging in the future. Chipless RFID sensors have the potential to achieve these functions. But it still faces many challenges to be overcome. For example, biocompatible, cost, reading range, multi-tag collision, multi-parameter sensors, recycling issues, security and privacy of RFID system should be solved.
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49
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Emerging 4D printing strategies for on-demand local actuation & micro printing of soft materials. Eur Polym J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2022.111778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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50
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Gao J, He Y, Cong X, Yi H, Guo J. Reconfigurable Fluorescent Liquid Crystal Elastomers for Integrated Visual and Haptic Information Storage. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:53348-53358. [PMID: 36395006 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c17494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The rapid advancements in information technology require new information storage and display materials. However, the development of on-demand information storage systems with multiple modes remains a significant challenge. As a pioneering approach, this study designed an integrated visual and haptic information storage and display using a reconfigurable fluorescent liquid crystal elastomer (FLCE) with dynamic covalent bonds. The FLCEs were fabricated in two steps of amine-acrylate aza-Michael addition and photopolymerization, and they simultaneously exhibited phototunable fluorescence caused by the reversible Z/E photoisomerization of the chromophores and a reprogrammable shape owing to the catalyst-free transesterification. In addition, we established various information storage and display modes featuring the characteristics of reversibly photoswitchable fluorescence, shape memory, and thermally reconfigurable shape with a reconfigurable FLCE system. Moreover, a strategy to display the information by incorporating both visual and haptic feedback is implemented for fulfilling the needs of the visually impaired and related users. Such reconfigurable FLCE systems will aid in the development of on-demand information storage, display, and protection devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Gao
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, and College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
| | - Yanrong He
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, and College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
| | - Xiaoyang Cong
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, and College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
| | - Huijie Yi
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, and College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
| | - Jinbao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, and College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
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