첨단연성물질 연구실

Liquid Crystals (LCs) are the intermediate phase of matter between liquid and crystal, having properties of both fluidity and long-range molecular ordering. Due to unique combination of these properties, LCs are capable of atonomously sensing various stimuli and then changing their environments through pre-programmed functions (e.g., optical signal, actuation, drug release), making LCs to be extensively utilized to design Responsive Materials (also known as Smart or Functional Materials). We investigate fundamental properties of Motile Bacteria (e.g., chemo-taxis, collective behavior) and combine them with the unique features of LCs to design new class of smart materials, such as self-powered micro-robot, drug-delivery system, sensors. Liquid Crystal Elastomers (LCEs) are rubber-like materials with the long-range molecular ordering so that reorientations of internal LC molecules enable the materials to shrink, expand, twist, or bend in a programmed way. By patterning this alignment, therefore, LCEs can drive precise, reversible shape change in response to a certain stimuli (e.g., light, heat, chemical). Building on this, we are designing new class of Soft-Robot by integrating LCEs with advanced molecular switches to realize (1) self-bending and self-twisting elements that generate propulsion (self-propelling actuators), (2) stimulus-guided modules that sense and pursue targets (self-tracking actuators), and (3) multifunctional grippers that capture, transport, or release payloads. Importantly, these devices operate without embedded electronics, external power, or complex fabrication, enabling lightweight, wireless, and scalable actuation. We design Advanced Bio- & Chemical-Sensors by leveraging the unique properties of LCs that can translate nanoscopic and molecular-sca