A study on structural programming and bionic driving characteristics of smart soft materials

This study focuses on the biomimetic design, structurally controllable fabrication, and performance regulation of magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) for soft robotics applications. Firstly, by designing a 24-sided polygon orientation control fixture, we achieved precise preparation of magnetic particle chain structures at a series of key angles, including 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°. Subsequently, scanning electron microscopy confirmed that the MRE microstructure exhibited well-defined chain-like features. Based on this, the dynamic mechanical properties of 50% MRE iron powder with varying carbonyl angles were tested using a rheometer. Finally, MRE was applied to the biomimicry of the electric eel movement and the curling of an elephant’s trunk. Research findings indicate that chain orientation exerts a significant regulatory effect on the storage modulus (G’), loss modulus (G’’), complex viscosity (|η*|), and loss factor (tanδ). Through spatial programming of gradient components and orientation distribution, MREs prepared under a uniform magnetic field drive can successfully reproduce continuous biomimetic motion that closely matches biological prototypes.