Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 28, 2026
14:52
Fabrication of Three-Dimensional Graphene-Based Polyhedrons via Origami-Like Self-Folding
Published on: September 23, 2018
9.4K
Bioinspired shape-memory graphene film with tunable wettability.
Jie Wang1, Lingyu Sun1, Minhan Zou1
1State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China.
Science Advances
|June 21, 2017
Summary
Researchers developed a novel slippery film using a shape-memory graphene sponge inspired by pitcher plants. This material dynamically controls liquid repellency, offering potential for advanced liquid handling applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Chemistry
- Biomimetics
Background:
- Functional materials with tunable surface wettability are crucial for diverse applications.
- Nature-inspired designs, such as the Nepenthes pitcher plant, offer innovative solutions for surface properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel slippery film with tunable wettability.
- To utilize a shape-memory graphene sponge for controlled liquid repulsion.
Main Methods:
- Coating a porous graphene sponge with a shape-memory polymer to create a hybrid film.
- Locking inert lubricants within the graphene sponge structure.
- Employing electrical stimulation to trigger shape recovery and alter surface properties.
Main Results:
- The graphene/polymer hybrid film exhibited superelasticity, high strength, and electrical conductivity.
- Droplets could slip on the compressed, lubricant-coated surface.
- Electrical stimulation caused film rebound, lubricant penetration into pores, and droplet pinning.
Conclusions:
- The electrothermally dynamic tuning approach provides stable and reversible control over surface slipperiness.
- The developed shape-memory graphene film demonstrates potential for applications in controlled liquid handling, such as microplates.
