A Cut-and-Weld Process to 3D Architectures from Multiresponsive Crosslinked Liquid Crystalline Polymers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Robotics

Background:

• Crosslinked liquid crystalline polymers (CLCPs) are promising for light-driven soft actuators.
• Their practical application is hindered by poor processability due to insoluble and infusible networks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a weldable azobenzene-containing CLCP with photo- and humidity-responsive actuations.
• To enable a cut-and-weld process for fabricating 3D CLCP architectures.
• To enhance the processability and application potential of CLCPs.

Main Methods:

• Development of an azobenzene-containing CLCP with weldable properties.
• Implementation of a cut-and-weld technique for 3D structure fabrication.
• Characterization of tensile properties and stability post-welding.
• Investigation of welding mechanisms (surface hydrogen bonding, further crosslinking).

Main Results:

• A weldable CLCP was successfully designed, allowing for photo- and humidity-responsive actuation.
• The cut-and-weld process maintained tensile properties and stability, outperforming conventional adhesive tapes.
• Mechanisms of welding were elucidated, involving hydrogen bonding and additional crosslinking.
• A 3D 'claw' actuator was fabricated for remote object manipulation.

Conclusions:

• The developed CLCP significantly improves processability for 3D architecture fabrication.
• The cut-and-weld approach offers an efficient method for creating functional 3D structures from film precursors.
• This work advances the potential application of CLCPs in smart materials and soft robotics.