Soft actuators that self-create bone for biohybrid (micro)robotics

Here we present a new class of variable stiffness actuators for soft robotics based on biohybrid materials that change their state from soft-to-hard by creating their own bones. The biohybrid variable stiffness soft actuators were fabricated by combining the electromechanically active polymer polypyrrole (PPy) with a soft substrate of polydimethylsiloxane or alginate gel. These actuators were functionalized with cell-derived plasma membrane nanofragments (PMNFs), which promote rapid mineralization within 2 days. These actuators were used in robotic devices, and PMNF mineralization resulted in the robotic devices to achieve a soft to stiff state change and thereby a decreased or stopped actuation. Moreover, perpendicularly and diagonally patterned actuators were prepared. The patterned actuators showed programmed directional actuation motion and could be fixated in this programmed state. Finally, patterned actuators that combined soft and rigid parts in one actuator showed more complex actuation motion. Together, these variable stiffness actuators could expand the range of applications of morphing robotics with more complex structures and functions.