Spore-Powered Material Triggered by Humidity

May-23-19 An innovative composite material made of spores and adhesives could function as actuators in soft robotics.

The material was developed by a team from Columbia University using spores produced by common bacteria and adhesives that can be cured via ultraviolet light. The material is formed into sheets and stacked in layers, where the moisture-sensitive spores will expand or shrink in response to moisture. The way the sheets fold or bend can be controlled by varying the way the composite sheets are stacked, opening the door to humidity triggered devices such as window shutters, clothing and soft actuators.

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[CO.UK]
[PHYS.ORG]

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