Two-dimensional materials for adaptive functionalities in soft robotics

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) materials are critical for applications in tactile perception, health monitoring, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and human-machine interfaces. In particular, recent advances in materials science, device fabrication, and machine learning have significantly propelled the applications of 2D materials for multifunctional soft robots owing to their flexible and conformal nature. In this review, we provide an overview of the fundamental mechanisms and recent breakthroughs in 2D materials for soft robotic systems, with a focus on their fabrication techniques, actuation mechanisms, and multiple sensing approaches. Subsequently, we highlight the significance of 2D materials in multimodal devices and feedback loop control for intelligent and smart robotics with self-adaptive manipulation. We then explore innovations such as multimodal sensing, human-robot interaction and artificial intelligence (AI)-promoted fast recognition. Finally, we summarize the future research directions and challenges, such as the reliable preparation roadmap for 2D materials and streamlined configuration to eradicate heavy wiring and enhance the dexterity of soft robots.