A Review on Biodegradable Materials of Sustainable Soft Robotics and Electronics

Abstract

With the increasing concerns over environmental pollution and healthcare demands, biodegradable materials are showing promising applications in the field of soft robotics. As two fundamental components of soft robots, actuators and soft sensors predominantly rely on non-biodegradable materials for fabrication, which raises significant environmental concerns. This review provides a comprehensive summary of current advancements in the utilization of biodegradable materials for soft robotics sensors. Biodegradable materials mainly include degradable metals, biodegradable polymers (such as cellulose and chitosan). Due to their environmental friendliness and biodegradability, these materials have shown competitive potential as excellent alternatives to traditional non-biodegradable sensor materials. Sensors for soft robotics based on biodegradable materials, including tactile sensors, strain/pressure sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, olfactory sensors, and implantable sensors, are systematically summarized. Although biodegradable sensors show great potential in sustainable soft robots, they still face challenges such as degradation rate control, insufficient mechanical strength, and large-scale production. Future research should focus on the integration of multifunctional materials, precise regulation of degradation mechanisms, and compatibility with traditional electronic components. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the development of biodegradable sensors, promote their widespread application in green robotics technologies, and contribute to the realization of global sustainable development goals.