Strong, Self-Healable, and Recyclable Visible-Light-Responsive Hydrogel Actuators

Date

2020-04-27

Authors

Jiang, Zhen
Tan, Ming Li
Taheri, Mahdiar
Yan, Qiao
Tsuzuki, Takuya
Gardiner, Michael
Diggle, Broden
Connal, Luke

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Wiley

Abstract

The most pressing challenges for light-driven hydrogel actuators include reliance on UV light, slow response, poor mechanical properties, and limited functionalities. Now, a supramolecular design strategy is used to address these issues. Key is the use of a benzylimine-functionalized anthracene group, which red-shifts the absorption into the visible region and also stabilizes the supramolecular network through π-π interactions. Acid-ether hydrogen bonds are incorporated for energy dissipation under mechanical deformation and maintaining hydrophilicity of the network. This double-crosslinked supramolecular hydrogel developed via a simple synthesis exhibits a unique combination of high strength, rapid self-healing, and fast visible-light-driven shape morphing both in the wet and dry state. As all of the interactions are dynamic, the design enables the structures to be recycled and reprogrammed into different 3D objects.

Description

Keywords

actuators, anthracene, photoresponsive hydrogels, self-healing

Citation

Source

Angewandte Chemie

Type

Journal article

Book Title

Entity type

Access Statement

Open Access

License Rights

Restricted until

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