Reprogrammable shape morphing hydrogel modulated by synergistic photochromism and photoactuation

Hydrogels with reprogrammable shape morphing have been widely embraced by the fields of smart robots, sensors, wearable devices and biomedicines. Programming shape morphing without the application of external stress remains a significant challenge. In this study, we introduce photochromic cadmium sulfide quantum dots (CdS QDs) to develope hybrid hydrogels capable of undergoing reversible color change, serving as a differentiated photothermal antenna for reprogramming of complex deformation. Our strategy leverages the synergetic photochromic and photothermal effects, which are individually controlled by patterned UV irradiation and global vis-IR irradiation. This method demonstrates non-contact photo-responsive characteristics, real-time reconfigurability and on-demand reprogrammability, enabling shape morphing hydrogel to perform functions such as 3D/4D information encryption, object manipulation, and logic circuit control.