Expected future developments

So far, 4D printing has had a major impact on the near future in two ways. Firstly, by offering an adaptable solution between two phases of use, such as a product that functions differently in a humid environment than in a drier environment. At the end of 2022, Marc del Pozo Puig designed a tiny flower that changes color as he breathes on the flower(which changes the humidity in the air). In particular, the application of light and humidity in the nano composites is better for a bidirectional effect of 4D printing. As shown in the figures below, the color of the flower changes based on the humidity.

The video below illiustrates 'smart ink' that PhD student Marc del Pozo Puig developed with a micro flower changing when humidity changes.

Video 1: 'smart ink' that PhD student Marc del Pozo Puig developed

And the other impact will be the transformation scenario that can influence the combination of production and use phases. An example of this is the transport of a lampshade that then unfolds into the correct shape when it touches oxygen or is heated, as shown in the figure below. This particularly affects the folding functions of products and will be particularly applicable in the transport and logistics sector.