Smarterial – Smart matter optomagnetic

Smart materials, also known as programmable materials, are a combination of different components that have the capability to change shape, move around and adapt to numerous situations by applying an external controllable field. Previous works have used optically guided matter or magnetically actuated materials, but similarly to soft robots, they are limited in spatial resolution or strength. Here we propose combining a low temperature thermoplastic polymer Polycaprolactone (PCL) with ferromagnetic powder particles (Fe). Focused light can heat this compound at specific locations and make it malleable. These heated spots can be actuated by external magnetic fields. Once the material cools down, this process can be repeated, or reversed. The compound can be actuated contact-less in the form of 3D slabs, 2D sheets, and 1D filaments. We show applications for reversible tactile displays and manipulation of objects. The laboratory team has characterised the density, weight, magnetic attraction, magnetic force, phase change, thermal and electrical conductivity and heat difusión (spread point test) for smart ferromagnetic compounds of different mixture proportions. The main advantages of this smart matter optomagnetic are the high spatial resolution of light and the strong force of magnetic attraction whilst mechanical properties of polymers are practically conserved. Due to the low temperature required and the possibility to use infrared or electromagnetic induction to heat the compound, the smart material can be used in air, water, or inside biological tissue. Eventually, Smart materials will enrich collaborative movements, such as grab and hold, and more complex ones, as reshaping and reassembling.