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About

Panpan Xu is a leading researcher in the field of bioinspired soft robotics and advanced functional materials, with a particular focus on developing next-generation artificial muscles and sustainable energy systems. Their groundbreaking work centers on creating biomimetic neuromuscular fibers that integrate actuation, sensing, and energy storage into single, multifunctional yarns and fibers. Xu’s most cited paper (2022, 73 citations) introduces artificial neuromuscular fibers that mimic a snail’s tentacle, achieving dynamic environmental adaptation and actuation path tracing—a major step toward lifelike soft robots. They have also pioneered high-strength artificial muscle fascicles by reinforcing liquid crystal elastomer fibers with carbon nanotube coils (2024, 28 citations), overcoming the long-standing limitation of poor contractile force. Notably, Xu’s dual-ion co-regulation system (2023, 12 citations) enables electrochemical yarn muscles with energy-free catch states, dramatically reducing power consumption. With over 210 total citations across their top papers, Xu’s innovations in sustainable battery chemistries (2021, 60 citations) and high-performance actuation materials are shaping the future of wearable technology, soft robotics, and green energy storage.