[2PS-042]
Photothermally Driven Infrared-Responsive Actuator Fibers via Polydopamine Coating
발표자하연경 (부경대학교)
연구책임자김대석 (국립부경대학교)
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are crosslinked polymers that respond to external stimuli, making them attractive for actuators, sensors, and soft robotics. In this study, near-infrared (NIR)-responsive LCE fibers were developed through precursor injection, uniaxial stretching, UV curing, and polydopamine (PDA) coating. The precursor was injected into a PTFE tube, followed by solvent evaporation, stretching for mesogen alignment, and UV crosslinking. The aligned fibers showed reversible contraction of ~30% during phase transitions. PDA was coated by immersion in a dopamine–tris buffer, imparting photothermal properties. Under NIR light, the fibers contracted rapidly, enabling wireless actuation. Temperature changes were monitored using an IR camera. The fibers exhibited fast response, high power density, and large strain, demonstrating potential for light-driven soft actuator applications.