Fluorescent actuators, known for their luminescence and deformation capabilities, hold significant potential in fields such as bionics and soft robotics. However, existing fluorescent actuators face challenges in balancing driving performance and fluorescence quality, often suffering from issues such as insufficient brightness, poor color purity, low stability, and limited functional integration. These limitations significantly hinder their application in complex scenarios.
To address these challenges, the research teams led by Prof. Chen Luzhuo and Prof. Chen Daqin at Fujian Normal University have made significant progress. Building on their previous work in multifunctional actuators and smart materials (Adv. Mater. 2024, 36, 2310795; Adv. Sci. 2023, 10, 2206467; Small 2024, 20, 2309498) and drawing inspiration from glow worms, the teams developed a multifunctional fluorescent actuator. This innovative device integrates ultrastable perovskite quantum dot-polyurethane composites with graphene oxide, achieving a unique combination of large deformation capability, high brightness, high color purity, color-changing functionality, and self-healing properties across all components.
Key Features and Applications
The actuator stands out for its ability to achieve simultaneous color and shape changes as well as on-demand design and reconfiguration of fluorescent patterns, thanks to its color-changing and self-healing functions. Demonstrating its versatility, the research teams showcased several applications:
· Intelligent Grabber: A device capable of precision gripping and manipulation.
· Crawling Robot: A robot capable of both crawling and turning-over motions.
· Light-Activated Dynamic Display Device: A groundbreaking system for reconfigurable encrypted information, showcasing the actuator’s potential in secure communication and adaptive displays.
These multifunctional capabilities are expected to pioneer new pathways for research in the field of fluorescent soft robotics, expanding their potential in advanced applications.
Publication and Recognition
The research achievement, titled Glow-Worm-Inspired Fluorescent Self-Healing Actuators for Soft Robot and Reconfigurable Information Encryption, has been published in the prestigious journal Advanced Materials, recognized as one of the leading academic journals in the field. Fujian Normal University is the sole completion unit for this research. The co-first authors are Zheng Lixuan, a postgraduate student at Fujian Normal University, and Prof. Chen Luzhuo. The co-corresponding authors include Prof. Chen Luzhuo, Researcher Huang Feng, and Prof. Chen Daqin.
Funding and Support
This research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province, and the Top-Notch Young Talents Program of Fujian Province.
(Translated by Xu Qiuhuang / Reviewed by Huang Danqing)