Yuanhang Yang¹, Changjin Huang^2,*

The International Conference on Computational & Experimental Engineering and Sciences, Vol.31, No.2, pp. 1-1, 2024, DOI:10.32604/icces.2024.010991

Abstract Achieving programmable and reversible deformations of soft materials is a long-standing goal for various applications in soft robotics, flexible electronics and many other fields. Swelling-induced shape-morphing has been intensively studied as one of the potential mechanisms. However, achieving an extremely large swelling ratio (>1000% in volume) remains challenging with existing swellable soft materials (e.g., hydrogels and water-swellable rubbers). Inspired by the shape change enabled by the osmosis-driven swelling in living organisms, herein, we report a polymer composite system composed of fine sodium chloride (NaCl) particles embedded in Ecoflex00-10 polymer. This Ecoflex00-10/NaCl polymer composite can achieve… More >

Hongyu Zhou¹, Hortense Le Ferrand^1,2,*

The International Conference on Computational & Experimental Engineering and Sciences, Vol.31, No.2, pp. 1-1, 2024, DOI:10.32604/icces.2024.010990

Abstract 4D printing enables 3D-printed structures to morph upon being exposed to external stimuli. Amongst all engineering materials, polymers show high 3D printability as well as tunability regarding to its morphing behaviour and functionalities. Generally, composites with epoxy as matrix shows high modulus and strength, whereas its mechanically brittle property makes it difficult to be morphed and snapped-through at room temperature, thereby limiting its 4D printability and its functionality. On the other, Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), as an elastomer, shows its high elasticity and stretchability, yet its printability and mechanical properties of its printed composites still need improving… More >

Weixiang Peng¹, Hortense Le Ferrand^1,2,*

The International Conference on Computational & Experimental Engineering and Sciences, Vol.31, No.1, pp. 1-2, 2024, DOI:10.32604/icces.2024.011119

Abstract Natural structural materials have undergone extensive evolution, resulting in intricate microstructural designs over billions of years. These designs have given rise to a diverse array of hierarchical microstructures that exhibit exceptional performance in terms of strength, resilience, toughness, and adaptability [1]. Among these natural microstructures, the microplatelet-based brick-and-mortar arrangement found in the nacreous layers of seashells has been the subject of extensive study. Additionally, more complex microstructural alignments exist, and these mineral orientations showcase varying properties, such as the shrinkage deformations. Inspired by the observed expansion deformation characteristics in nature, this study delves into the… More >