Breakthrough in Soft Robotics and Biomedical Devices by Engineers at Rice University

Engineers at Rice University in the UK have made significant breakthroughs in the fields of soft robotics and biomedical devices, successfully developing an innovative method that enhances the strength and durability of silicon-based flexible devices without altering the material's inherent properties. This research was published in a special section of the journal Science Advances, focusing on printed robots and musculoskeletal robotics, and provides a predictive framework that effectively correlates the curing conditions of silicon with adhesion strength, significantly improving the overall performance of molded and 3D-printed elastomer components. According to Daniel J. Preston, the lead author and assistant professor of mechanical engineering, 'We found that the degree of curing of the silicon elastomer during the bonding process has a significant impact on its adhesion performance. By understanding and effectively regulating this variable, we can significantly enhance the reliability of devices without introducing new chemical components or processing techniques.'