In nature, adaptive microstructures are widely used to dynamically change the topography of a macroscopic object that results in a material with novel static and dynamic functions. Here we report a design of active and dynamic microactuation systems based on liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs). Specifically, the deformation of LCE microactuators is driven by the anisotropic mechanical response parallel and perpendicular to the alignment of their mesogenic components, during nematic-isotropic phase transition. Interestingly, a rich palette of deformation types, including mechanically unfavored motions (e.g., in-plane tilting) and their hierarchical assembly, can be achieved by programming the internal orientation of the mesogens. Pre-determined and self-regulated locomotion can be achieved and controlled by applying different external stimuli. By incorporating other functional materials, we can create hybrid systems showing adaptive light-material interactions utilizing the control over microscale self-regulated deformation. Overall, these results provide the basis of a versatile class of active microstructures that enable the deformations in ways that are not possible with passive systems, and by creating hybrid materials, they can be optimized for a range of potential applications, including self-regulated antenna, controlled adhesive system, and information encryption.

Design of polymeric microstructures showing active, dynamic and hierarchical deformations

256th National Meeting (2018)

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