Pei Zhang

Southern University of Science and Technology, Eindhoven University of Technology, University of Manitoba

Papers

Total Citations

351

H-Index

About

Pei Zhang is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of bioinspired materials and soft robotics, with key contributions in fatigue-resistant hydrogels and structural color actuators. Zhang’s most notable work includes the development of bioinspired 2D isotropically fatigue-resistant hydrogels, which overcome the limitations of conventional anisotropic hydrogels by achieving uniform fatigue thresholds exceeding 1000 J m⁻² in all directions—a breakthrough cited over 160 times. This innovation addresses a critical challenge in mimicking muscle-like tissues for durable soft robots. Additionally, Zhang has advanced liquid crystal-based structural color actuators, enabling soft robots to dynamically change both shape and color, inspired by cuttlefish and chameleons. These actuators, fueled by near-infrared light, integrate pigmentary and structural color changes, achieving over 100 citations for their potential in camouflage and communication. Zhang’s work has been published in high-impact journals and represents a significant leap in creating multifunctional, adaptive materials. With over 350 total citations, Zhang’s research continues to inspire new directions in bioinspired engineering, offering practical solutions for next-generation soft robotics and adaptive systems.