The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Artificial muscles are key to next-generation robotics that emulate the complex motions of living organisms. For real-world use, they must achieve a balance of high strain, stress, energy density, and mechanical durability. We present muscle-inspired actuator fibers and bundles that deliver strong, reversible contraction. These systems leverage exfoliated graphene fillers embedded in a uniaxially aligned liquid crystalline matrix to enable fast, photothermal actuation with high work capacity. Notably, thermally driven structural transitions induce reversible graphene percolation, allowing real-time electrical monitoring of actuation. This dynamic network also enhances mechanical strength, especially during contraction, supporting stable, muscle-like performance. The compliant fiber design allows easy bundling and integration into light-responsive soft robotic systems for high-power, wireless operation.