Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces in Potsdam and Harvard University in Cambridge are employing both the mechanics of nature and 3D printing to create a new and porous material which may offer a smarter way to make motors for robotic works and other applications. Using a multi-material 3D printer, scientists at Harvard created the material which can then be injected with a solvent to cause pressure and resulting expansion, imitation the process that naturally causes preferred movement in plants to cause an action like releasing seeds under the proper conditions. Read more about the research in the full article: http://3dprint.com/77599/plants-inspire-3dp-materials/


Below is a look at the 3D printed actuator that uses honeycomb structure inspired by plants. (Photo credit: Advanced Materials Interfaces/MPI of Colloids and Interfaces):