In a groundbreaking study, a team of scientists from the University of Colorado at Boulder have developed a novel photomechanical material that has the ability to convert light energy into mechanical work without the need for heat or electricity. This technological advancement opens up a world of possibilities for energy-efficient, wireless, and remotely controlled systems across a range of industries including robotics, aerospace, and biomedical devices.
The vision of these scientists is to guide an airborne drone from the ground, where the drone draws its energy from a laser beam, eliminating the requirement to carry a heavy onboard battery. Professor Ryan Hayward, from the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, explains that this material allows them to “cut out the middle man” by directly transforming light energy into mechanical deformation.
Unlike previous attempts using delicate crystalline solids that often cracked when exposed to light, the researchers’ new material has proven to be much more durable, efficient, and versatile. The material is composed of tiny organic crystals embedded within a sponge-like polymer material. As these crystals grow within the polymer’s pores, their durability and energy production upon light exposure are significantly enhanced.
The orientation of the crystals within the material allows them to perform mechanical tasks when exposed to light. By bending or lifting objects, the crystals act as motors or actuators, moving loads much larger than themselves. This innovative technology has demonstrated its ability to lift a 20 mg nylon ball using a mere .02 mg strip of crystals, lifting an astonishing 10,000 times its own mass.
The potential applications for this photomechanical material are vast and promising. In the field of robotics, it offers the possibility of wirelessly controlling or powering robots, eliminating the need for heavy electrical components. In the aerospace industry, this technology could revolutionize the way drones are powered and controlled. Moreover, in the biomedical field, these materials have the potential to enhance the functionality of body implants or prosthetics. The versatility, flexibility, and ease of shaping make these materials highly adaptable for a wide range of applications.
While the results of this study are incredibly promising, the researchers acknowledge that there is still work to be done before these materials can fully compete with existing actuators. One of the primary challenges is improving the efficiency of the material, maximizing the amount of mechanical energy produced compared to the input light energy. The research team’s objective is to further advance control over the material’s movement, enabling it to go beyond simply transitioning from a flat to a curved state.
The study conducted by the University of Colorado at Boulder scientists is a crucial step in the right direction towards harnessing light energy for mechanical work. It provides a roadmap for future research and development in this field, paving the way for potential advancements in the coming years. As Professor Hayward states, “We still have a ways to go, particularly in terms of efficiency, before these materials can really compete with existing actuators.” However, the breakthrough achieved by this study sets the stage for further exploration and the realization of a future where light becomes a powerful source of energy for a wide range of applications.
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