Toward Advanced Degradable Soft Robotics Incorporating Transient Soft Electronics: Materials, Fabrication, and Applications

Abstract

Abstract Life cycle‐inspired soft robots are being developed to emulate dynamic biological functions such as growth, self‐healing, color change, morphing, and structural disintegration. Degradable soft robots have emerged as a promising class of systems for applications in disposable biomedical devices, environmental monitoring platforms, and transient security technologies. To realize advanced robotic functionalities such as sensing, feedback, and intelligent control, the integration of transient electronics is essential—while still maintaining the full degradability of the entire soft robotic system. Although significant advances have been made in both degradable soft robots and transient electronics, their seamless integration remains challenging due to issues such as material compatibility, fabrication complexity, and functional reliability. This review outlines recent progress in degradable actuators and electronics and presents key strategies for integration toward fully transient robotic systems. Particular emphasis is placed on two distinct degradation mechanisms—passive biodegradation and trigger‐responsive transient behavior—that define the operational lifespan and functionality of such systems. By examining materials, fabrication methodologies, and application examples across these categories, foundational design principles and technological directions for realizing intelligent soft robots that maintain full degradability at the system level are highlighted.