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Variable Stiffness Fiber with Self‐Healing Capability
Author(s) -
Tonazzini Alice,
Mintchev Stefano,
Schubert Bryan,
Mazzolai Barbara,
Shintake Jun,
Floreano Dario
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
advanced materials
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 10.707
H-Index - 527
eISSN - 1521-4095
pISSN - 0935-9648
DOI - 10.1002/adma.201602580
Subject(s) - materials science , stiffness , composite material , actuator , silicone , fiber , self healing , computer science , alternative medicine , pathology , artificial intelligence , medicine
A variable stiffness fiber made of silicone and low melting point alloys quickly becomes >700 times softer and >400 times more deformable when heated above 62 °C. It shows remarkable self‐healing properties and can be clamped, knitted, and bonded, as shown in a foldable multi‐purpose drone, a wearable cast for bone injuries, and a soft multi‐directional actuator.