Magnetoactive Photochemical Liquid Crystal Elastomers

This project focuses on developing smart materials that can move or change shape in response to light and magnetic fields with the synthesis of Thiolacrylate-Liquid Crystal Elastomers (LCE) with the incorporation of superparamagnetic or ferromagnetic particles. These materials, called liquid crystal elastomers, have potential applications in soft robots, which are flexible machines that can be used in areas like medicine or delicate manufacturing. By working together, the University of Waterloo and the Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA-CSIC) will combine their unique knowledge and tools to create new ways of making these materials. This collaboration will help both institutions advance their research and train students in cutting-edge technologies for the future of soft robotics.

Faculty Supervisor:

Hamed Shahsavan

Student:

Partner:

Spanish National Research Council

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Nanotechnology; Biotechnology

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: