Dynamically programmable surface micro-wrinkles on PDMS-SMA composite

We report on the development of a PDMS-SMA composite whose surface micro wrinkles can be dynamically programmed by an electrical current supplied to the SMA wire. It is advantageous over other techniques for surface topographical modulation, including portability, real-time programmability, no requirement for specific surface chemistry, operability under ambient conditions, and relative ease of control. A simplified mechanical model is also developed to describe the force-deflection balance of the PDMS-SMA composite. The wavelengths and amplitudes of the wrinkles when different currents applied to the SMA are characterized, and the experimental results agree with the theoretical model. The developed composite device can be applied to programmable modulations of surface adhesion, friction, wettability, etc.