A Hydrophilic/Hydrophobic Janus Inverse-Opal Actuator via Gradient Infiltration

Janus/gradient actuating materials have become promising candidates for actuating devices. The fabrication of functional Janus gradient actuators remains a challenge. This paper presents a facile fabrication of a hydrophilic/hydrophobic Janus inverse opal actuator via gradient infiltration. The Janus characteristics of the fabricated actuator were attributed to gradient infiltration along the thickness of the film caused by the gradient light intensity and the distinct polymerization behavior of ionic liquids and methyl methacrylate in the methanol system. The Janus film demonstrated directional bending upon water vapor adsorption, with a bending angle approaching 1440° in 4 s, accompanied by structure color/optic signal alteration. The actuating behaviors were effectively modulated by changing the composition of the film and the solvent system. Promising applications of this Janus solvent actuator were demonstrated in two sets of tests: driving an engine and lifting cargo. This work provides insight into the design and fabrication of multifunctional humidity-actuating materials.