Magnetoactive Liquid-Solid Phase Transitional Matter
25th January 2023
This study presents a class of magnetoactive phase transitional matter (MPTM). MPTMs exhibit a combination of high mechanical strength, high load capacity, fast locomotion, excellent controllability, and robust morphological adaptability. This unique combination of properties is enabled by the reversible transition of MPTMs between rigid and fluidic states through alternating magnetic field heating and ambient cooling. To illustrate the unique capabilities of MPTMs, we demonstrate smart soldering machines to manipulate and solder electronic components to create a functional circuit. We also use MPTMs as universal screws to assemble parts in hard-to-reach space and as a capsule machine for removing foreign objects or delivering drugs in a model stomach. MPTMs are promising for future applications in flexible electronics, healthcare, and robotics that depend on dynamic shape reconfigurability and repair.