Advances in Liquid Crystal Elastomers

Responsive materials using liquid crystal elastomers (LCE) have been used in artificial muscles, robotics, and other dynamic materials. The ability to pre-align and orient the polymer network leads to a response on the macroscopic scale. Recent investigations have focused on programming molecular orientation, designing multi-responsive materials, and integrating these materials into actuators and robotics. Designing new LCE systems and improving existing systems opens pathways for next-generation robotics and responsive materials.

In this cross-journal Collection between Nature Communications, Communications Materials, Communications Chemistry, and Scientific Reports we welcome contributions on the latest advancements in Liquid-Crystal Elastomer (LCE) materials investigating LCE design, multi-responsive LCEs, and applications using LCE systems.

All participating journals invite submissions of original research articles, with Nature Communications, Communications Materials and Communications Chemistry also considering Reviews and Perspectives which fall within the scope of the Collection. All submissions will be subject to the same peer review process and editorial processes as regular Nature Communications, Communications Materials, Communications Chemistry, and Scientific Reports articles.