Biomimetic Inspired Liquid Crystal Elastomers with Dual-Mode Actuation Featuring Vapor Self-Oscillation and Photothermal Bending

Key Points

• The research aims to explore advanced soft actuators that can emulate complex behaviors using environmental stimuli.
• Developed biomimetic liquid crystal elastomers with dual-mode actuation.
• Tested the performance of these elastomers under vapor and light stimuli.
• Analyzed mechanical responses to different environmental conditions.
• Demonstrated effective transduction of stimuli into mechanical motion.
• Achieved self-oscillation through vapor exposure.
• Showed significant photothermal bending under light, enhancing actuator efficiency.