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PHOTO-CROSSLINKING INDUCED SINGLE-LAYERED JANUS POLYIMIDE FOR PHOTOACTUATOR
Zheng Zhao, Sr1
1The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China

PAPER: 116/Polymers/Regular (Oral) OS
SCHEDULED: 14:00/Thu. 20 Nov. 2025/Sampaguita

ABSTRACT:

Advanced smart polymer materials capable of reversible deformation under external stimuli hold significant promise in robotics, soft machines, and flexible electronics. However, their further development is often hindered by complex fabrication processes, low efficiency, and limited functionality of existing actuators. In this work, we present an efficient and mild catalyst-free thiol-yne click polymerization method to fabricate photosensitive polyimide (PI) films. Fluorescent, robust photoactuators with a single-layered Janus structure were then directly obtained via UV-assisted photo-crosslinking of these films. These actuators exhibit reversible responses driven by a pronounced mismatch in expansion between the front and back sides of the films.

By achieving a selective, non-uniform spatial distribution within the PI films, these actuators demonstrate rapid and reversible complex morphing behaviors. Furthermore, the system enables straightforward fluorescent information encryption, reading, and erasure—all using a single UV light source. With robust mechanical properties and strong driving capabilities, the actuators effectively convert light energy into visible motion, even under heavy loads. They also exhibit dynamic leaping through energy storage and release, underscoring their potential for practical applications requiring durability, reliability, and versatility.