2D Materials Capable of Forming Complex 3D Shapes

Researchers have developed a technique that programs 2D materials to transform into complex 3D shapes. Programming thin sheets, or 2D materials, to morph into 3D shapes can enable new technologies for soft robotics, deployable systems, and biomimetic manufacturing, which produces synthetic products that mimic biological processes. The 2D material programming technique allows the team to print 2D materials encoded with spatially controlled in-plane growth or contraction that can transform to programmed 3D structures.