Canada researches and develops artificial muscle fiber to expand according to the humidity contraction

As technology continues to evolve, countries worldwide are investing in more advanced humanoid robots, aiming to integrate them into daily life. Recently, Canadian scientists have made a breakthrough with a new type of fiber that could bring us closer to creating robots capable of performing smooth and natural movements—like human muscles.

According to *Applied Chemistry*, researchers from the University of Alberta have developed an innovative "artificial muscle" that can perform lifting exercises by responding to changes in air humidity. This material is capable of lifting several times its own weight effortlessly, opening up exciting possibilities for future robotics.

The artificial muscle is made from a high-molecular polymeric material that reacts to chemical or physical stimuli. It has great potential in controlling soft robots, which can move gently without damaging fragile objects or navigating tight spaces. These soft robots could be used in medical settings, disaster recovery, or even space exploration.

The team created a small plastic strip coated with layers of chromium, gold, and a microgel monolayer. The microgels are cross-linked polymers that swell when exposed to solvents. By using negatively charged poly-N-isopropylacrylamide and acrylic acid, along with polycations, they engineered a material that reacts to humidity changes.

When the material dries, the hydrophobic regions contract, causing the structure to bend upward. When humidity increases, it returns to its original shape. This unique property allows the material to act like a muscle, expanding and contracting based on environmental conditions.

In one experiment, the team tested the material in a living room by changing humidity levels, which allowed it to lift a small bag. In another test, they attached paper clips to the end of the "arm" and adjusted the humidity to increase or decrease the load. The result was impressive: the material lifted up to 14 times its own weight.

"A human arm makes up about 6.5% of body weight," said Michael Supey from the University of Alberta. "So, if a 75-kilogram person could lift 68.3 kilograms with one arm, this artificial muscle can hold up to 1280 kilograms." That's a powerful demonstration of its strength and versatility.

Looking ahead, this "muscle fiber" could revolutionize robotics, enabling the creation of snake-like robots or more realistic human-like machines. Its ability to respond to environmental cues opens the door to smarter, more adaptive robotic systems that could work alongside humans in various industries.

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