Periodic Reporting for period 1 - E-MOTION (Molecular materials for a new generation of artificial muscles)
Reporting period: 2021-10-01 to 2023-03-31
- We have successfully fabricated and characterized a series of spin crossover polymer composites with oriented, size- and shape-controlled spin-crossover particles, using mostly ferrous triazole complexes, providing us the necessary samples to fabricate actuator devices.
- We have synthesized a series of unprecedented compounds, which combine SCO-active and electroactive properties
- We fabricated various spin crossover based composite materials using different electroactive polymer matrices, including piezopolymers and conducting polymers, and investigated the electromechanical couplings between the constituents.
- We analyzed structure - mechanical property relationships in bulk spin crossoover materials using variable temperature and pressure x-ray diffraction and nanoindentation techniques, combined with Molecular Dynamics simulations - providing us the necessary inputs to start working towards effective actuator designs.
- We conducted a deep experimental and theoretical analysis of the mechanical properties of the iron-triazole based SCO composites, providing us the necessary tools to start working towards effective actuator designs.
- We fabricated a series of bending actuators, which were characterized using a custom-built bench for their key figures-of-merit.
- We have embarked in the design (by means of finite element analysis) and fabrication (by means of 3D printing) of more complex actuator concepts.
- Transform weak forces of individual molecules into a much greater muscle-like contraction force in soft, macroscopic, molecule-based actuator devices.
- Uncovering the intra- and inter-molecular processes that underlie the generation of mechanical response.
- Working towards a proper interfacing of the molecules with their environment to produce useful work and to enable external control.
- Endowing the molecule-based actuators with numerous advanced functionalities, such as camouflage, bistability, chemical actuation, self-sensing and self-regulation.
- Develop solutions for demanding applications in lightweight robots, human assist devices, microfluidic systems and smart textiles.