Fast-Response Bioinspired Near-Infrared Light-Driven Soft Robot Based on Two-Stage Deformation

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Robotics
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Soft robots offer advantages in dexterity and safety over rigid counterparts.
• Developing remote-controlled actuation for soft robots remains a challenge.
• Photoresponsive materials enable untethered control via light stimulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel photoresponsive nanocomposite for soft robotics.
• To enable remote, light-induced actuation in soft robots.
• To demonstrate the capabilities of the soft robot in performing various tasks.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a nanocomposite combining liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs), high elastic form-stable phase change polymer (HEPCP), and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs).
• Characterization of the nanocomposite's photoresponsive properties under near-infrared (NIR) light.
• Integration of the nanocomposite into a soft robot design for actuation and task execution.

Main Results:

• The LCE/HEPCP/MWCNT (LHM) nanocomposite exhibited a two-stage deformation upon NIR light exposure.
• The soft robot demonstrated fast (2 s), reversible bending up to 180°.
• The material showed sensitive and dramatic shape changes, enabling locomotion and manipulation.

Conclusions:

• The developed LHM nanocomposite provides a promising platform for light-driven soft robotics.
• The soft robot exhibits biomimetic behaviors and untethered control capabilities.
• This innovation paves the way for advanced miniaturized robotic systems.