What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to develop a multifunctional polyurethane liquid crystal elastomer (PULCE) actuator with advanced shape memory effects and photo-responsive characteristics.

April 15, 2026

Light-responsive polyurethane liquid crystal elastomer actuators with photochromic and multiple shape memory effects

Key Points

The research aims to develop a multifunctional polyurethane liquid crystal elastomer (PULCE) actuator with advanced shape memory effects and photo-responsive characteristics.
Developed a polyurethane liquid crystal elastomer (PULCE) with incorporated reversible deformation of liquid crystal elastomer (LCE)
Tested for photo deformation, photochromism, and shape memory effects
Assessed the actuator's ability to perform complex tasks
Achieved fast photo deformation in the actuator
Demonstrated triple shape memory effects
Enabled on-demand shape remolding for versatile applications

Abstract

This work develops a multifunctional PULCE. It shows fast photo deformation and photochromism, triple shape memory, and on-demand shape remolding. Adding reversible deformation of LCE helps the actuator to perform complex tasks.

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Discussion

Authors

Jie Ma

Kuo-huai Qin

Gang Wang

Journals

Materials Chemistry Frontiers

Actions

Institutions

Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China

Northwest University

References and Citations

Connected Papers

Building similarity graph...

Analyzing shared references across papers

Light-responsive polyurethane liquid crystal elastomer actuators with photochromic and multiple shape memory effects

Key Points

Abstract

Citation Network

Connected Papers

Discussion

Authors

Journals

Actions

Institutions

References and Citations

Citation Network

Connected Papers

Discussion

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