Three-Dimensional Printed Soft and Smart Actuator for Controlled Release of Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid (SA) is a potent antimicrobial agent with significant potential for applications in both space and terrestrial environments. In NASA's Space Biofilms study, SA's antibacterial and antifungal properties are being explored to prevent and manage biofilm formation in microgravity. Biofilms, which thrive in the unique conditions of space, pose challenges such as microbial-induced material degradation, system blockages, and health risks for astronauts. The approach utilized in the NASA study involves immediate or periodic application of SA, which could be further complemented by the precision and stability offered through our controlled release structure. Our proposed solution involves a three-dimensional (3D)-printed soft actuator that enables sustained and controlled release of SA over time. This 3D soft and smart actuation structure enables a more stable and efficient delivery mechanism, addressing the limitations of existing methods. This 3D actuator could be adapted for terrestrial agricultural use, such as placement on plant leaves, to enhance resilience against abiotic stresses like drought and salinity, while also aligning with space-based agricultural applications explored in studies like NASA's Plant Habitat-06 experiment. By providing a steady release of SA, this actuator offers superior control and stability compared to conventional methods, highlighting its versatility in addressing challenges in both space exploration and agricultural sustainability.