In-built thermo-mechanical cooperative feedback mechanism for self-propelled multimodal locomotion and electricity generation

Nature Communications
Xiao-Qiao WangGhim Wei Ho

Abstract

Utilization of ubiquitous low-grade waste heat constitutes a possible avenue towards soft matter actuation and energy recovery opportunities. While most soft materials are not all that smart relying on power input of some kind for continuous response, we conceptualize a self-locked thermo-mechano feedback for autonomous motility and energy generation functions. Here, the low-grade heat usually dismissed as 'not useful' is used to fuel a soft thermo-mechano-electrical system to perform perpetual and untethered multimodal locomotions. The innately resilient locomotion synchronizes self-governed and auto-sustained temperature fluctuations and mechanical mobility without external stimulus change, enabling simultaneous harvesting of thermo-mechanical energy at the pyro/piezoelectric mechanistic intersection. The untethered soft material showcases deterministic motions (translational oscillation, directional rolling, and clockwise/anticlockwise rotation), rapid transitions and dynamic responses without needing power input, on the contrary extracting power from ambient. This work may open opportunities for thermo-mechano-electrical transduction, multigait soft energy robotics and waste heat harvesting technologies.

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Citations

Mar 30, 2019·Chemistry, an Asian Journal·Huanqing CuiXuemin Du
Dec 14, 2019·Advanced Materials·Yu-Chieh ChengArri Priimagi
Oct 1, 2020·Journal of Materials Chemistry. B, Materials for Biology and Medicine·Qian ZhaoLuquan Ren
Nov 9, 2019·Nature Communications·Hao ZengArri Priimagi
Aug 21, 2019·Science Robotics·Yusen ZhaoXimin He
Nov 19, 2020·ChemistryOpen·Marina Pilz da CunhaAlbert P H J Schenning
Apr 18, 2021·Physical Review. E·Kai LiShengqiang Cai
Aug 6, 2019·ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·Changxiang ShaoLiangti Qu
Dec 28, 2021·Chemical Reviews·Indra ApsiteLeonid Ionov

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Methods Mentioned

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scanning electron microscopy
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