Bio-inspired carbon-based artificial muscle with precise and continuous morphing capabilities
2024

Bio-inspired carbon-based artificial muscle with precise and continuous morphing capabilities

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Li Xiaodong, Li Meiping, Zhang Mingjia, Liu Qin, Zhang Deyi, Liu Wenjing, Yan Xingru, Huang Changshui

Primary Institution: Chinese Academy of Sciences

Hypothesis

Can a carbon-based artificial muscle inspired by a butterfly's proboscis achieve precise control and rapid deformation?

Conclusion

The hydrogen-substituted graphdiyne muscle (HsGDY-M) shows significant promise for applications in smart robotics and precision medicine due to its rapid and adaptable deformation capabilities.

Supporting Evidence

  • The HsGDY-M can lift objects up to 11 times its own weight.
  • It maintains performance at temperatures as low as -25°C.
  • The material can be miniaturized down to 100 μm.
  • It can transform inert objects into actuators through surface bonding.
  • The muscle exhibits rapid and reversible deformation in response to acetone vapor.

Takeaway

Scientists created a new type of artificial muscle that can change shape quickly and precisely, just like a butterfly's tongue, which could help robots and medical devices work better.

Methodology

The HsGDY-M was synthesized through a one-step mild liquid-phase reaction involving a carbon–carbon coupling reaction of 1,3,5-triethynylbenzene.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/nsr/nwae400

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