Shapeshifting Fiber Moves from Rigid to Flexible

Oct-28-16 A new fiber able to vary its stiffness based on temperature could have applications in an array of shapeshifting devices and tools.

Developed by the team from École Polytechnique, the fiber is made up of a silicone tube containing alloys with low melting points and wrapped with a copper wire. The alloys are solid at room temperature, allowing the fiber to remain rigid. However, passing an electric current through the copper wire causes it to heat up, melting the alloys and shifting the fiber to a “spaghetti-like” consistency that can be knitted or wrapped around objects. The fiber can also be triggered to self-heal by melting the metal core and then pressing the pieces back together.

Image: The wire could be knitted into electronic casts, or used to make vehicles that shift from ground- to air-based.

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