Reconfigurable Soft Actuators Constructed via Layer‐by‐layer Assembly

• DOI: 10.1002/admi.202500269
• Publication Date: 2025-06-03T05:28:45Z
• Authors: Qing Chen; Loghman Jamilpanah; Tina Künniger; Roman Furrer; Qun Song; Kai Zhang; Andrei Chumakov; Constantin Harder; Yusuf Bulut; Peter Müller‐Busc...; Stephan V. Roth; Artur Braun
• Keywords: Layer by layer; Soft Robotics

Abstract Stimuli‐responsive actuators are candidates for the development of soft robots due to their shape deformation and environmental adaptation capabilities. Adaptation stimuli not only enables complex reprogramming but also benefits recovery mechanical injuries actuators. Nevertheless, reports on that integrate shape‐reprogramming injury‐healing functions into a monolithic actuating material through facile fabrication strategies remain scarce. Herein, stimuli‐responsive healable actuator is developed via layer‐by‐layer casting two materials with complementary properties. Upon specific stimulation, these reorganize structural network at nano‐ microscales heal. The resulting exhibits robust photo‐responsive strength asymmetric volumetric responses layers. Importantly, whole can be healed aid sequential heating‐humidifying–drying treatment, achieving excellent healing efficiency in both (72%) (95%). Moreover, initial actuation modes restored diversified humidifying or heating‐assisted welding procedures, respectively. This work demonstrates strategy construct reprogrammable abilities stimulated by provides platform developing adaptable changing environment.