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Multistimuli-Responsive Actuators Derived from Natural Materials for Entirely Biodegradable and Programmable
Zhong Chen1, Bo Gao1, Pengyang Li1
1National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Advanced Composites in Special Environments, Center for Composite Materials and Structures, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150080, People's Republic of China.
ACS Nano
|November 8, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a sustainable, biodegradable soft actuator using cuttlefish ink nanoparticles, cellulose nanofiber, and polylactic acid. These robots offer safe, flexible, and remotely controlled actuation responsive to light, humidity, and temperature.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Robotics
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Untethered soft robots are gaining traction for their safety and flexibility.
- Current soft robots often use non-biodegradable materials, posing environmental concerns.
- There is a need for sustainable alternatives in soft robotics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, biomass-based, multistimuli-responsive soft actuator.
- To address the environmental impact of traditional soft robot materials.
- To demonstrate programmable 3D shape-morphing capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a composite layer using cuttlefish ink nanoparticles (CINPs) and cellulose nanofiber (CNF).
- Integration of the CINPs/CNF composite (CICC) with bioderived polylactic acid (PLA).
- Utilizing differences in photothermal and hygroscopic properties for actuation.
Main Results:
- The soft actuator demonstrated reversible deformation under near-infrared (NIR) light, humidity, and temperature.
- Programmable 2D to 3D shape-morphing was achieved through patterned structures and reassembly strategies.
- Finite element analysis (FEA) accurately predicted actuator deformations.
- The actuator was successfully applied in grasping, weightlifting, and climbing robot prototypes.
Conclusions:
- A fully biodegradable, multistimuli-responsive soft actuator was successfully developed.
- This innovation offers a sustainable pathway for the future of untethered soft robots.
- The developed actuators show promise for various robotic applications.
