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Abstract
Autonomous shape transformation is key in developing high-performance soft robotics technology; the search for pronounced actuation mechanisms is an ongoing mission. Here, we present the programmable shape morphing of a three-dimensional (3D) curved gel structure by harnessing multimode mechanical instabilities during free swelling. First of all, the coupling of buckling and creasing occurs at the dedicated region of the gel structure, which is attributed to the edge and surface instabilities resulted from structure-defined spatial nonuniformity of swelling. The subsequent developments of post-buckling morphologies and crease patterns collaboratively drive the structural transformation of the gel part from the “open” state to the “closed” state, thus realizing the function of gripping. By utilizing the multi-stimuli-responsive nature of the hydrogel, we recover the swollen gel structure to its initial state, enabling reproducible and cyclic shape evolution. The described soft gel structure capable of shape transformation brings a variety of advantages, such as easy to fabricate, large strain transformation, efficient actuation, and high strength-to-weight ratio, and is anticipated to provide guidance for future applications in soft robotics, flexible electronics, offshore engineering, and healthcare products.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 36361-36369 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces |
Volume | 13 |
Issue number | 30 |
Early online date | 22 Jul 2021 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 4 Aug 2021 |
Keywords
- Hydrogel
- swelling
- creasing
- buckling
- shape transformation
- hydrogel
- General Materials Science
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Dive into the research topics of 'Spatially and Reversibly Actuating Soft Gel Structure by Harnessing Multimode Elastic Instabilities'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Projects
- 1 Finished
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Stimuli-responsive gel based microfluidic switch
Xu, B. B. (PI)
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
1/10/15 → 30/07/17
Project: Research