A multi-responsive water-driven actuator with instant and powerful performance for versatile applications

Mechanical actuators driven by water that respond to multiple stimuli, exhibit fast responses and large deformations, and generate high stress have potential in artificial muscles, motors, and generators. Meeting all these requirements in a single device remains a challenge. We report a graphene monolayer paper that undergoes reversible deformation. Its graphene oxide cells wrinkle and extend in response to water desorption and absorption, respectively. Its fast (~0.3 s), powerful (>100 MPa output stress, 7.5 × 10(5) N kg(−1) unit mass force), and controllable actuation can be triggered by moisture, heat, and light. The graphene monolayer paper has potential in artificial muscles, robotic hands, and electromagnetic-free generators.