Multistimuli-Responsive Soft Actuators with Controllable Bionic Motions

Abstract

Soft actuators with biomimetic self-regulatory intelligence have garnered significant scientific interest due to their potential applications in robotics and advanced functional devices. We present a multistimuli-responsive actuator made from a carbon nitride/carbon nanotube (CN/CNTs) composite film. This film features a molecular switch based on reversible hydrogen bonds, whose asymmetric distribution endows the film with the ability to absorb water unevenly and convert molecular motion into macroscopic movement. By incorporating carboxylated CNTs, the film demonstrates improved mechanical properties and actuation performance. Under ambient humidity stimuli, the actuator can autonomously generate walking and tumbling motions. The CN/CNTs composite film's actuating behaviors are programmable, enabling diverse deformation modes and complex biomimetic movements. Additionally, the film exhibits excellent photothermal conversion efficiency (74.10 °C/s), allowing for temperature and light-responsive actuation, which can be remotely controlled in real time. These features have enabled the creation of soft robots capable of complex biomimetic actions such as jumping, directional movement, and transporting objects. This research broadens the potential applications of CN-based actuators and paves the way for the development of intelligent soft robots.