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Liquid crystal elastomer coatings with programmed response of surface profile

Author

Listed:
  • Greta Babakhanova

    (Kent State University
    Kent State University)

  • Taras Turiv

    (Kent State University
    Kent State University)

  • Yubing Guo

    (Kent State University
    Kent State University)

  • Matthew Hendrikx

    (Eindhoven University of Technology
    Eindhoven University of Technology)

  • Qi-Huo Wei

    (Kent State University
    Kent State University)

  • Albert P. H. J. Schenning

    (Eindhoven University of Technology
    Eindhoven University of Technology)

  • Dirk J. Broer

    (Eindhoven University of Technology
    Eindhoven University of Technology)

  • Oleg D. Lavrentovich

    (Kent State University
    Kent State University
    Kent State University)

Abstract

Stimuli-responsive liquid crystal elastomers with molecular orientation coupled to rubber-like elasticity show a great potential as elements in soft robotics, sensing, and transport systems. The orientational order defines their mechanical response to external stimuli, such as thermally activated muscle-like contraction. Here we demonstrate a dynamic thermal control of the surface topography of an elastomer prepared as a coating with a pattern of in-plane molecular orientation. The inscribed pattern determines whether the coating develops elevations, depressions, or in-plane deformations when the temperature changes. The deterministic dependence of the out-of-plane dynamic profile on the in-plane orientation is explained by activation forces. These forces are caused by stretching-contraction of the polymer networks and by spatially varying molecular orientation. The activation force concept brings the responsive liquid crystal elastomers into the domain of active matter. The demonstrated relationship can be used to design coatings with functionalities that mimic biological tissues such as skin.

Suggested Citation

  • Greta Babakhanova & Taras Turiv & Yubing Guo & Matthew Hendrikx & Qi-Huo Wei & Albert P. H. J. Schenning & Dirk J. Broer & Oleg D. Lavrentovich, 2018. "Liquid crystal elastomer coatings with programmed response of surface profile," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 9(1), pages 1-9, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:9:y:2018:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-018-02895-9
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-02895-9
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