From 0D to 3D liquid crystal elastomers architectures: Fabrications and applications

Abstract Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) represent a class of lightly crosslinked polymer networks that combine the soft elasticity of polymer networks with the anisotropy of liquid crystal (LC) units. These intelligent polymeric materials respond to external stimuli, generating reversible deformations. The modulation of LCE dimensions enables control over their deformation capabilities and functionalities, showcasing rich potential in microfluidics, soft robotics, intelligent textiles, tunable optical devices, energy dissipation materials, and various other domains. Meeting diverse application requirements necessitates considering factors such as shape, size, mechanical strength, topological structure, functional modes, and stimulus‐response mechanisms. Therefore, the modulation and design of LCE dimensions emerge as a promising approach. This paper initially explores LCE's fundamental physical properties, driving mechanisms, and alignment characteristics. Subsequently, it reviews the latest advancements in manufacturing technologies for LCE from zero‐dimensional (0D) to three‐dimensional (3D) architectures, emphasizing specific functionalities and potential applications. Finally, the paper summarizes current challenges and future opportunities.