Korean scientists develop self-deploying composite

Busan, South Korea – In a development that may change the landscape of robotics within the realm of origami, scientists from Pusan National University have developed a self-deployable material that applies flexibility and strength. The creation supports the concept of robotic structures to be folded up as an array and then expand when needed with applications in aerospace, medical devices, buildings, and next-gen robotics.

The research team, led by Associate Professor Dong Gi Seong of the Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, developed a method of fabrication that uses rigid and flexible epoxy resins in one fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) structure, providing accurate control of the mechanical properties in one monolithic format, and improving on previous single-resin limitations.

"Our new and simple approach for making composite materials that allow for flexible bending while still exhibiting structurally sound performance…overcomes the limitations of single-resin systems and manual fabrication processes," said Dr. Seong.

Published in Composites Part B: Engineering (Volume 305, October 2025), the paper outlines the successful design and fabrication of a triangulated cylindrical origami structure that could bend, twist, compress and deploy while maintaining strength. The newly invented material had a flexural modulus of 6.95 GPa in the rigid portions of the design and 0.66 GPa in the foldable portions while under high strain cycles and maintaining low weight.

Scientists consider this technology could drive a new class of deployable technology from robots that transform, to foldable electronics, deployable parts for space flight, adaptive wheels, and disaster relief shelters.

In the far future, Dr. Seong indicated could lead to humanoid joints, power suits, adaptive electronics, and lightweight mobility systems supporting energy-efficient, light-weight alternatives to heavy metal pieces.
This development underscores the potential for combining origami engineering with advanced polymers to help solve problems in robotics and space and every-day technologies.