22.07.2020 •

Quantum‐Confined‐Superfluidics‐Enabled Moisture Actuation Based on Unilaterally Structured Graphene Oxide Papers

Abstract

The strong interaction between graphene oxides (GO) and water molecules has trigged enormous research interest in developing GO‐based separation films, sensors, and actuators. However, sophisticated control over the ultrafast water transmission among the GO sheets and the consequent deformation of the entire GO film is still challenging. Inspired from the natural “quantum‐tunneling‐fluidics‐effect,” here quantum‐confined‐superfluidics‐enabled moisture actuation of GO paper by introducing periodic gratings unilaterally is reported. The folded GO nanosheets that act as quantum‐confined‐superfluidics channels can significantly promote water adsorption, enabling controllable and sensitive moisture actuation. Water‐adsorption‐induced expansion along and against the normal direction of a GO paper is investigated both theoretically and experimentally. Featuring state‐of‐the‐art of ultrafast response (1.24 cm−1 s−1), large deformation degree, and complex and predictable deformation, the smart GO papers are used for biomimetic mini‐robots including a creeping centipede and a smart leaf that can catch a living ladybug. The reported method is simple and universal for 2D materials, revealing great potential for developing graphene‐based smart robots.

Full article:

Advanced Materials

Source: Preview Image: 501room/Shutterstock

Related articles

Channel-Length Independent Electrical Characteristics of Oxide Thin-Film Transistors
Article Digest

Channel-Length Independent Electrical Characteristics of Oxide Thin-Film Transistors

The quality and dimensions of the fabricated devices were assessed through an MX61 optical microscope from Olympus.
Thin Films with Embedded Microspheres for Super-Resolution Microscopy
Article Digest

Thin Films with Embedded Microspheres for Super-Resolution Microscopy

Microspheres of barium titanate with high refractive index were embedded in thin polydimethylsiloxane films. These films, which adhere to the surface of the nanoplasmonic structures, were used to observe the plasmonic structures providing a tool for high-resolution microscopy.
Native Oxide Barrier Layer for Selective Electroplated Metallization of Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells
Article Digest

Native Oxide Barrier Layer for Selective Electroplated Metallization of Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells

An alternative low-silver approach for low-temperature metallization of SHJ solar cells through selectivity of etchants and plating processes was demonstrated. The NOBLE approach saves processing steps and consumables with encouraging results.
Breathable and Flexible Polymer Membranes with Mechanoresponsive Electrical Resistance
Article Digest

Breathable and Flexible Polymer Membranes with Mechanoresponsive Electrical Resistance

Flexible low-resistance membranes that tolerate very high deformability, produce low joule heating, and allow the passage of gases for human comfort are desired for wearable devices. Herein, a network of silver nanowires
(AgNWs) between two highly porous electrospun thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) membranes is presented.
Boosted UV Photodetection Performance in Chemically Etched Amorphous Gallium(III) Oxide Thin-Film Transistors
Article Digest

Boosted UV Photodetection Performance in Chemically Etched Amorphous Gallium(III) Oxide Thin-Film Transistors

Bottom-gate amorphous gallium oxide thin-film transistors (TFTs) were fabricated to boost their UV photodetection properties. A simple chemical-etching solution was employed that is easy to use, low cost, and compatible with traditional lithographic processes to selectively etch a-Gallium(III) oxide films.
Flexible Thin-Film Electronics
Article Digest

Flexible Thin-Film Electronics

Fast-forward and electronics are ubiquitous throughout our lives. Most electronic devices are composed of rigid circuit boards containing electronic components (e.g., transistors, resistors, and capacitors), and printed metallic interconnects. Now, flexible electronics are currently being developed for next-generation devices.