MXenes for soft robotics

Abstract

Soft robotic technologies are attracting significant attention since they can realize delicate tasks that traditional stiff robots cannot. Two-dimensional transition metal carbide/nitride, known as MXene, can endow soft materials with important properties, including adjustable electrical conductivity, high mechanical stability, and versatile responsiveness, making it an attractive material for soft robotic systems. In this review, we present a systematic summary of recent applications of MXenes in soft robotic systems. The advantages of MXenes in this field are discussed first. Subsequently, the working principles and research progress of MXene use in soft robotic systems are summarized, covering soft actuators, soft robotic sensors, and soft robotic skins, respectively. At the end, the remaining challenges and future directions of employing MXenes in soft robotic systems are presented.