Self-healing soft robots lead the way in sustainability
Robotics is entering a transformative era with the integration of innovative materials. These advanced materials bring unique properties such as self-healing and adaptability, allowing robots to mimic biological systems. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the SMART project has been at the forefront of this innovation, developing soft robotics that combine smart, stimuli-responsive materials with cutting-edge design and control systems.
Tackling the challenges of modern robotics
Traditional robotic systems often suffer from overdimensioning and complexity, leading to heavy and oversized designs that are costly and difficult to maintain. Additionally, these systems struggle in dynamic environments where soft, flexible materials are essential for effective interaction. “Integrating self-healing materials with soft robotics presented significant challenges, including ensuring that these materials retained their mechanical properties while maintaining their self-repair capabilities,” explains Bram Vanderborght, SMART project coordinator and professor at Vrije Universiteit Brussel and imec. To overcome these issues, SMART leveraged interdisciplinary collaboration. Material scientists and roboticists jointly developed polymers that balance softness and durability, enabling faster healing at room temperature. These materials were seamlessly integrated with advanced sensing and actuation technologies to create fully autonomous robotic systems capable of detecting and repairing damage, mimicking human biological processes.
A focus on greener and sustainable solutions
Sustainability was a central theme of the SMART project. Researchers prioritised greener chemistries to minimise environmental impact, aligning with global efforts towards a circular economy. “Self-healing polymers developed in the SMART project extend the lifecycle of robotic systems and significantly reduce waste,” notes Vanderborght. Collaborations with industry ensured that these materials meet practical demands while advancing sustainability goals. The result is a suite of environmentally friendly and industrially viable materials.
Harnessing AI and machine learning for intelligent control
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) played a vital role in enhancing the capabilities of SMART’s robotic systems. AI-driven algorithms were used for structural health monitoring and damage detection, while ML models helped predict material responses to stimuli. These technologies enabled robots to navigate dynamic environments and autonomously manage damage, optimising their performance and functionality. Training the next generation of innovators The SMART project also focused on building human capital. Over its duration, it trained 15 Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) through a multidisciplinary programme combining material science, robotics and industry collaboration. Transferable skills training equipped ESRs with competencies such as communication, networking, and problem-solving, while secondments provided hands-on experience bridging academic research and industry needs. “Secondments bridged the gap between academic research and industry needs, equipping researchers with both technical and soft skills,” highlights Fatma Demir, project manager of SMART. These efforts have prepared a new generation of scientists to lead future advancements in sustainable robotics. Impacting the future of robotics The breakthroughs achieved under the SMART project promise significant socio-economic and environmental benefits. Applications span from healthcare to industrial automation, where robots must operate in challenging environments. By extending the lifespan of robotic systems and reducing maintenance costs, the project contributes to greater efficiency and sustainability. The creation of Valence Technologies, a spin-off company from the SMART consortium, exemplifies the transition of research outputs into market-ready solutions. The SMART project’s innovations in soft robotics reduce resource consumption and support a thriving market for sustainable technologies. These advancements ensure that robotic systems can operate independently in complex environments, revolutionising industries while minimising their environmental footprint. SMART has set a benchmark for integrating advanced materials, intelligent systems and sustainability into robotics. Through its achievements, the project addresses current challenges and lays the foundation for a future where robots work harmoniously within dynamic environments and complex systems.
Keywords
SMART, sustainability, soft robotics, self-healing materials, AI, ML, stimuli-responsive materials, greener chemistries, industrial automation
