Chemistry

Rejuvenating liquid crystal elastomers for self-growth

H. Xu, H. Liang, et al.

This innovative research by Hongtu Xu and colleagues introduces a groundbreaking strategy to rejuvenate non-fresh liquid crystal elastomers, transforming them from a liquid crystal to an isotropic phase. Through a unique synergy of solvents and dynamic covalent bonds, this method enables repeated rejuvenation and selective growth regulation, paving the way for exciting advancements in soft growing robotics.