Nature’s actuators employ controlled deformations of individual
molecules to perform actuation. Our objective is to create a new class of
actuators that, like muscle, harness molecular
deformations to generate meso- and macroscopic force and displacement.
Advances in synthetic organic chemistry enable the creation and manipulation of
molecules that mimic natural mechanisms. We are designing, in collaboration with
Tim Swager in the department of
Chemistry at MIT, conducting polymers which
undergo large conformation changes in response to electrically or chemically
induced changes in oxidation state. The creation of a muscle-like actuator will
enable advances in autonomous robotics, artificial organs and micro/nanosystem
fabrication.
Conducting polymers offer a diversity and range of material
properties matched only in protein-based life. They can be employed to fabricate
chemical, mechanical and optical sensors, actuators, LEDs, transistors,
batteries, super-capacitors, structural elements and fibers. From these
components it is possible to construct entire devices using just one class of
materials, as well as just one fabrication process.