Weavable and Electrically Actuation Liquid Crystal Elastomer Fabrics for Soft Intelligent Systems

Liquid crystal elastomer fibers (LCEFs) exhibit exceptional thermally induced large-strain deformation capabilities, positioning them as promising candidates for smart actuation systems. However, their intrinsic one-dimensional configuration and reliance on external thermal sources have significantly limited their practical deployment. To overcome these challenges, we propose a one-step weaving integration strategy that simultaneously addresses dimensional and actuation constraints. First, LCEFs with excellent mechanical and actuation properties (129.7 MPa, >50%) were fabricated via a template-assisted two-step cross-linking method. Using a weaving process, three woven structures─plain, twill, and satin─were constructed, revealing that the density of interlacing points is the key structural parameter governing thermally induced deformation in LCE fabrics. To enable active electrical actuation, we embedded carbon nanotube (CNT) yarns as functional wefts into the satin weave, forming a hybrid fabric capable of efficient electro-thermal-mechanical energy conversion. Optimization results showed that a CNT yarn spacing of eight LCEFs yielded the best overall actuation performance, with a weft-directional actuation strain of 32.2%. Leveraging the biaxial actuation of the LCE fabric, we constructed a flexible conveyor prototype capable of stable object transfer across LCE fabric units. Additionally, localized CNT embroidery enabled programmable shape transformation in garments, demonstrating asymmetric deformation of a skirt hem under electrical stimulus. This work establishes a comprehensive LCEF-based fabric actuator─from materials preparation and structural design to electrically controlled applications─providing theoretical foundations and technical solutions for implementing LCEF actuators in soft robotics, intelligent transport, and wearable devices.