Investigation of Response Characteristics and Reaction Mechanisms in Nanonickel Doped Sodium Alginate/Graphene Oxide Artificial Muscles.

To address the shortcomings of traditional actuators, such as large size, high energy consumption, and slow response, this study developed a conductive and responsive artificial muscle, exploring the operational principles and performance enhancement techniques for artificial muscles made from sodium alginate and graphene oxide. Initially, the research outlined a preparation methodology using sodium alginate, graphene oxide, and nanonickel as primary materials. Subsequent adjustments in the nanonickel content optimized critical performance metrics, including output force, lifespan, and deflection displacement. Furthermore, the electrochemical properties of the artificial muscle were methodically assessed by utilizing an electrochemical workstation. Comprehensive examinations of surface and internal microstructures, as well as reaction mechanisms, were conducted through scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The findings demonstrated that nanonickel supplementation markedly improved the responsiveness and electrochemical properties of the artificial muscle under electrical stimulation, underscoring its substantial promise in biohydrogels and biomimetic technology applications.