3D Printing with Novel Morphing Materials
Liquid Crystal Elastomer
Hydrogel
Magnetic Putty
Pluronics
I am currently working on exploring liquid crystal elastomer as a potential actuator type with fully reversible actuation. The project is a collaboration between Morphing Matter Lab at CMU, led by professor Lining Yao, and The Shankar Research Group at Upitt, led by profssor Ravi Shankar Meenakshisundaram.
Hyrel Engine SR
The primary printer for LCE printing at morphing matter lab is Hyrel Engine SR. This printer is capable of printing with wide range of fluids and conventional 3D printing material. With four slots on the printing yoke, it can virtually print any material.
Liquid Elastomer Polymer
Liquid crystal elastomer is a powerful candidate as a morphing material because it can achieve fully reversible actuation with minimal fatigue. Our work has shown 20% fully reversible stain. (with maximum 40% in theory)
Hydrogel
Hygrogel is another great material with drastic deformation. I am working with CMU researchers to apply hydrogel as a carrier for different types of seeds in ocean.
Magnetic Putty
Magnetic putty is a magnetic material that we are experimenting with. With the ability to 3D print magnetic putty, we can create complex 3D structures to form specific magnetic field that we want.
Pluronics
Pluronics is a facinating 3D printing material because it solidifies as temperature increases. (around 50~60 degree celsius) With its characteristics, we can 3D print complex internal structures and extract it without cutting the print open.