A research team led by Prof. Chae Bin Kim (Pusan National University) has developed innovative disulfide-based covalent adaptable networks (DS-CANs) that enable reversible shape-shifting and fixation using magnetic fields and ultraviolet (UV) light. Traditional magnetic micropillar arrays, composed of PDMS and magnetic particles, deform under a magnetic field but fail to retain their shape once the field is removed. Previous fixation strategies—such as water-soluble binders or thermosetting resins—faced limitations in reversibility and environmental compatibility. The newly developed DS-CANs address these challenges, enabling UV- or heat-triggered shape locking at room temperature without the need for solvents or resins. These materials also offer spatiotemporal control, reprocessability, and self-healing capabilities.

To demonstrate their functionality, the team fabricated DS-CAN/NdFeB micropillar arrays that respond to magnetic fields and retain their programmed shapes after UV exposure. The reversible deformation and fixation processes were further validated using non-equilibrium molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations. Additionally, the successful formation of ribbed microstructures mimicking shark skin highlights the material's potential for complex 3D shaping. This breakthrough opens new possibilities for soft robotics, programmable surfaces, and smart adhesives, while also offering energy-efficient solutions for drag reduction in smart surface and transport systems. 

- Authors (Pusan National University) · Yeomyung Yoon (School of Chemical Engineering) · Chae Bin Kim (School of Chemical Engineering, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology)

- Title of original paper: Light-Fueled In-Operando Shape Reconfiguration, Fixation,and Recovery of Magnetically Actuated MicrotexturedCovalent Adaptable Networks

- Journal: Advanced Materials

- Web link: https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202503161