Actuation performances of catkin fibers reinforced thiol-acrylate main-chain liquid crystalline elastomer

Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) have been utilized as an important class of smart actuator materials. However, the modest actuation mechanical and robustness performances remain a challenge. Inspired by specific structures, well properties physico-chemical characteristics some natural plant fibers, composite thiol-acrylate main-chain LCE matrix incorporated with catkin fibers is designed developed. The build network reinforcement phase, demonstrate effective compatibility integration property matrix, their high flexibility can be adapted to large deformational performance matrix. prepared demonstrates strong properties. modulus driving force triggered stimuli are obviously increased. tensile strength fatigue failure resistant under loadings repeated cycles thermal or photothermal greatly enhanced. While stimulus response deformation rate, phase transition temperature liquid crystal structure so on, do not weaken change. This work promotes materials’application potential broadens application value fibers.