Traveling Wave Rotary Micromotor Based on a Photomechanical Response in Liquid Crystal Polymer Networks.

ABSTRACT: The photomechanical response of liquid crystal polymer networks (LCNs) can be used to directly convert light energy into different forms of mechanical energy. In this study, we demonstrate how a traveling deformation, induced in a liquid crystal polymer ring by a spatially modulated laser beam, can be used to drive the ring (the rotor) to rotate around a stationary element (the stator), thus forming a light-powered micromotor. The photomechanical response of the polymer film is modeled numerically, different LCN molecular configurations are studied, and the performance of a 5.5 mm diameter motor is characterized.

SUBMITTER: Dradrach K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7497615 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature