One-Component Dual Actuation: Poly(NIPAM) Can Actuate to Stable 3D Forms with Reversible Size Change.

Liu, Li; Ghaemi, Ali; Gekle, Stephan; Agarwal, Seema · Adv Mater · 2016

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

A rare example of a one-component dual actuator is provided, which displays irreversible change in shape by rolling on contact with water and reversible size change on changing the temperature. The actuator has a bilayer structure with aligned and randomly oriented fibers of poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide). A combination of anisotropic E modulus and temperature dependent swelling/shrinkage provides the dual actuation.