Cees W. M. Bastiaansen

Queen Mary University of London, DSM (Netherlands)

Papers

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About

Cees W. M. Bastiaansen is a materials scientist whose research sits at the dynamic intersection of polymer engineering, smart materials, and soft robotics. His work has made significant contributions to the development of light-driven polymer actuators — materials capable of converting light energy into mechanical motion — with implications for microrobotics, artificial muscles, and smart textiles. His most cited work, "Ultra-High Actuation Stress Polymer Actuators as Light-Driven Artificial Muscles" (2020, 48 citations), demonstrated remotely addressable actuator systems that overcome the complexity and sluggish response rates that have historically limited the field. Bastiaansen has further advanced this area by exploring photothermal actuation in ultra-drawn high-density polyethylene and developing actuators responsive across the full NIR–vis–UV spectrum with reduced creep rates, addressing critical challenges of stability and reversibility in real-world applications. Beyond actuation, his research extends to switchable hydrogel surface coatings, opening avenues in microfluidics and anti-fouling technologies. Through a focused and innovative body of work, Bastiaansen has helped lay the foundation for next-generation lightweight, high-performance materials that respond intelligently to their environment.