Biological and Bioinspired Autonomous Hygroscopic Materials Systems

My project focuses on the development of bioinspired hygroscopic materials for environmentally friendly, soft and autonomous machines. By studying the movement of hygroscopic plants such as pine cones, I can develop novel actuators that react to changes in humidity. In these actuators, I will incorporate hygroscopic polymers with restrictive layers to improve the adaptability and functionality of autonomous machines. The aim is to drive the development of applications such as adaptive shading systems for façades. In the production of this generation of actuators, I use 3D/4D printing processes.