Plant-root-inspired azobenzene-based photoresponsive actuator with fast response and environmental stability for light-driven robotics

Despite the promise, significant challenges persist, including slow response rates, intricate fabrication processes, and limited stability. Here, inspired by plant roots, we develop an azobenzene-based photoresponsive actuator through a straightforward one-step strategy.

Under unilateral UV illumination, the prepared Azo–PDMS film exhibits rapid and reversible bending, with the photodeformation process completed within 2 s. Meanwhile, the Azo–PDMS actuator shows environmental robustness, retaining favorable photoresponsive capability, even after exposure to harsh conditions, including low (−20 °C) and high (150 °C) temperatures, strong acid (pH = 1), and strong alkali (pH = 14).