Correlating fundamental properties to functional responses in liquid crystalline elastomers

Programming of liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) for stimuli-responsive shape change relies on an intricate balance of polymer network and liquid crystalline properties. Fundamental insight into how responsive behavior can be manipulated at the molecular and polymer network level enables targeted design of complex macroscopic actuators. Here, these synergistic properties are explored across length scales spanning the molecular design of liquid crystalline components and functional monomers to the patterning and reprogramming of alignment and network topology. These aspects are highlighted in the context of pioneering discoveries in the field alongside recent innovations, including examples from our work, illustrating the potential for advancing the design of LCEs and their impact in modern applications based on methodical use of fundamental knowledge.