Stimuli-responsive polymers: solving todayʼs problems

In my laboratory, I am working to create unique polymer materials using “living cationic polymerization,” a chemical synthesis method that allows polymers to be processed into desired lengths and patterns, to realize a sustainable future. Among these, I am working on thermoresponsive hydrogels, which change size in response to temperature, with the aim of applying these to soft robots. These hydrogels will reduce the number of motor-driven parts and enable us to create energy-saving robots that operate naturally and can be used in a wide range of applications. Another research project involves the creation of self-healing materials using halogen bonding. These can be used to prolong the life of various devices in our daily lives, thus reducing the environmental costs of manufacturing and the need to dispose of various products.

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