Aquatic Topological Liquid Crystal Gel Kirigami

Abstract

Abstract The development of soft materials capable of intricate shape transformations and exhibiting unique swimming performance in aquatic environments is pivotal for applications in soft robotics. However, operating soft materials in water presents significant challenges, such as rapid heat dissipation and increased viscosity. Here, a design strategy is introduced for fabricating monolithic, photoresponsive, aquatic topological liquid crystal gel (LCG) kirigami. This strategy combines microscopic molecular alignment, dictated by micro‐structured topological defects, with macroscopic geometric shapes of kirigami in LCG constructs. The integration of single defects and 2D defect matrices into intricate kirigami structures enables a range of functionalities, including full‐space bio‐inspired swimming akin to LCG jellyfish and ray fish, as well as advanced locomotion such as hopping. The programmable shape changes of topological LCG kirigami facilitate the creation of directional rotating kirigami‐rotors, autonomous locomotion, autonomous dual‐mode rollings, and diverse architectures, such as a Chinese knot capable of complex motions. An LCG robot capable of walking, climbing, transporting cargo, and kicking balls is also demonstrated. This work not only enhances understanding of the interplay between topology and geometric features in the shape morphing and swimming of soft materials, but also opens opportunities for designing intelligent active materials for underwater applications.