Large-Size Honeycomb-Shaped and Iris-Like Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuators

Abstract

Nature is providing inspiration for researchers to mimic its functions or existing structures, which could remarkably promote the development of new materials. Here, a large-size honeycomb-shaped liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) actuator with LC orientation along the height of the honeycomb shape is built by combining magnetic field alignment and soft lithography technology. This homeotropic alignment allowed the height contraction of honeycomb and pore size expansion of hexagons in a reversible manner upon temperature variation. Therefore, this LCE actuator can be used as a structure for temperature-gated separation of particles. Another example is an iris-like LCE actuator, which has the capability of adjusting its aperture size with a temperature variation. Our approach provides a simple way to design customizable sophisticated LCE actuators for various potential applications.