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Development of lignin-based 3D-printable light responsive shape memory materials: Design of optically controlled
Fang Suo1, Xin Bai1, Yongzhuang Liu1
1Key Laboratory of Bio-Based Material Science and Technology (Ministry of Education), Material Science and Engineering College, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|June 9, 2024
Summary
Researchers developed a novel light-responsive shape memory composite using poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with lignin filler. This lignin-enhanced material achieves over 95% shape recovery under light, mimicking natural blooming for optical devices.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- Developing light-responsive materials for actuators and soft robotics is crucial for advanced applications.
- Traditional light-responsive materials often involve complex synthesis or limited processability.
- There is a need for cost-effective and easily fabricated light-responsive composites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a novel light-responsive shape memory composite using simple fabrication methods.
- To investigate the effect of lignin as a functional filler on material properties and performance.
- To demonstrate the potential of the composite in optically controlled devices mimicking natural phenomena.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of the composite via melt blending and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing.
- Incorporation of lignin (L) as a functional filler into a poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) matrix.
- Characterization of photothermal properties, shape recovery, and rheological behavior.
Main Results:
- The lignin-filled composite exhibited efficient photothermal conversion, reaching 50°C within 40s under illumination.
- Shape recovery rate exceeded 95.06%, demonstrating effective light-induced shape memory behavior.
- Lignin addition improved the rheological properties of TPU, enhancing FDM processability and composite compatibility.
Conclusions:
- A simple and economically viable method for producing light-responsive shape memory composites was established.
- The lignin-enhanced PCL/TPU composite shows significant potential for optically controlled devices.
- This research offers a promising alternative to conventional light-responsive materials due to its efficient fabrication and performance.
