Liquid Crystal Elastomer Artificial Tendrils with Asymmetric Core–Sheath Structure Showing Evolutionary Biomimetic Locomotion

Abstract

AbstractThe sophisticated and complex haptonastic movements in response to environmental‐stimuli of living organisms have always fascinated scientists. However, how to fundamentally mimic the sophisticated hierarchical architectures of living organisms to provide the artificial counterparts with similar or even beyond‐natural functions based on the underlying mechanism remains a major scientific challenge. Here,  liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) artificial tendrils showing evolutionary biomimetic locomotion are developed following the structure–function principle that is used in nature to grow climbing plants. These elaborately designed tendril‐like LCE actuators possess an asymmetric core–sheath architecture which shows a higher‐to‐lower transition in the degree of LC orientation from the sheath‐to‐core layer across the semi‐ellipse cross‐section. Upon heating and cooling, the LCE artificial tendril can undergo reversible tendril‐like shape‐morphing behaviors, such as helical coiling/winding, and perversion. The fundamental mechanism of the helical shape‐morphing of the artificial tendril is revealed by using theoretical models and finite element simulations. Besides, the incorporation of metal‐ligand coordination into the LCE network provides the artificial tendril with reconfigurable shape‐morphing performances such as helical transitions and rotational deformations. Finally, the abilities of helical and rotational deformations are integrated into a new reprogrammed flagellum‐like architecture to perform evolutionary locomotion mimicking the haptonastic movements of the natural flagellum.