Dynamic Polymer Networks for Resilient and Adaptive Soft Machines
Abstract
Shape-morphing materials have emerged as an innovative technology to advance robotic device performance across applications spaces. However, due to their inherent compliance and softness they are typically vulnerable to mechanical damage and to changing harsh conditions in operating environments, and thus present inherent durability and reliability problems. Self-healing materials (repairing damage across length scales) offer a promising solution to these vulnerabilities; however, fundamental property trade-offs (e.g., strength vs kinetics) limit the full realization of their potential and their implementation in deployable, adaptive devices and machines. The results from this project will advance multifunctional aerospace materials performance, and will enable new capabilities in aerospace vehicles to manipulate boundary layer flow, optimize aerodynamic performance across flight regimes, and operate in unstructured hybrid environments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 06, 2025
- Source ID
- FA95502410185
Entities
People
- Abdon Pena-Francesch
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Board of Regents of the University of Michigan
- United States Air Force