Soft electrochemical bubble actuator with liquid metal electrode using an embodied hydrogel pneumatic source

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Robotics
• Electrochemistry

Background:

• Soft pneumatic actuators are crucial for soft robotics, typically relying on mechanical pumps for inflation.
• Existing actuators face limitations such as bulky equipment, high voltage requirements, or slow actuation speeds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel soft pneumatic actuator utilizing electrochemistry for inflation.
• To demonstrate a pump-free, electrically controlled soft actuator powered by water.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the electrochemical reduction of water to generate hydrogen gas for inflating pneumatic chambers.
• Employing hydrogel for actuator chambers to serve as a water source and liquid metal electrodes for flexibility and contact.
• Controlling actuation by adjusting input parameters like time and voltage, and electrode placement.

Main Results:

• The electrochemical approach generates gas to inflate pneumatic chambers using only a few volts, unlike high-voltage dielectric actuators.
• The hydrogel-based actuator, with liquid metal electrodes, demonstrates controlled inflation within tens of seconds.
• Actuation volume, shape, and position are precisely controlled by input parameters and device geometry.

Conclusions:

• This electrochemically driven soft actuator offers a pump-free, electrically controlled alternative to conventional pneumatic actuators.
• The technology enables the development of soft devices capable of operating underwater and without tethers.
• The approach presents a significant advancement in the field of soft robotics and wearable devices.