Electro and Light-Active Actuators Based on Reversible Shape-Memory Polymer Composites with Segregated Conductive...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Reversible shape-memory polymers (RSMPs) are promising for actuation due to their repeatability.
• Developing multiresponsive RSMPs without compromising deformation is crucial.
• Integrating functional fillers requires careful strategies to maintain polymer performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a facile strategy for balancing electro-photothermal performance and molecular chain mobility in RSMPs.
• To enhance the multiresponsive capabilities of RSMPs for advanced applications.
• To investigate the effect of segregated conductive networks on polymer composite properties.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of segregated carbon nanotube (S-CNT) networks within a poly(ethylene-co-octene) (POE) matrix.
• Characterization of electrical conductivity, photothermal response, and actuating performance.
• Low filler loading achieved through controlled CNT network construction.

Main Results:

• A low percolation threshold of 0.25 vol % for S-CNTs in POE.
• Achieved electrical conductivity up to 0.046 S·cm^-1 with 2 vol % CNT.
• Demonstrated efficient light absorption (>90% at 760 nm) enabling low-voltage and low-light intensity actuation.
• Successful demonstration of an electric gripper and a light-active crawling robot.

Conclusions:

• The developed S-CNT/POE composite exhibits excellent multiresponsive actuating properties.
• This strategy effectively balances performance and preserves reversible deformation.
• The approach holds significant potential for applications in artificial muscles, bionic robots, and other advanced actuation systems.