4D Printing with Liquid Crystal Elastomers: Materials, Methods, and Emerging Applications.

Abstract

4D printing represents a transformative leap in material science, enabling the fabrication of smart materials that change shape, properties, or functions over time in response to stimuli like heat, light, or magnetic fields. Among these, liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) stand out due to their unique combination of liquid crystalline order and polymer elasticity. This fusion enables LCEs to undergo large, reversible shape changes, making them ideal for applications in soft robotics, biomedical devices, sensors, and adaptive optics. This review explores the latest advancements in the 4D printing of LCEs, focusing on cutting-edge fabrication techniques such as direct ink writing, VAT photopolymerization, and hybrid approaches. These methods provide precise control over molecular alignment, enabling the creation of programmable structures capable of complex movements. Integrating LCEs with nanoparticles, liquid metals, and shape-memory polymers has further enhanced their mechanical strength, thermal stability, and multifunctionality. Despite these breakthroughs, challenges remain in achieving scalability, long-term stability, and cost-effective production. This review highlights these hurdles and discusses potential solutions while emphasizing the future potential of LCEs in revolutionizing industries such as healthcare, robotics, and environmental monitoring. This article aims to inspire further innovation in 4D-printed LCE technologies by offering a comprehensive overview.