Advanced Materials for Humanoid Robots

Advanced Materials for Humanoid Robots: A Comprehensive Overview

Humanoid robots require a diverse range of high-performance materials to achieve optimal functionality, durability, and efficiency. Below is a detailed analysis of key materials used in various robotic systems, along with their applications and benefits.

1. Structural Components

Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK)
With exceptional mechanical properties and heat resistance, PEEK is the ideal choice for joint bearings and linkage components. For instance, Tesla’s Optimus Gen2 utilized PEEK to reduce weight by 10 kg while increasing walking speed by 30%.

Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS)
Known for its outstanding dimensional stability and chemical resistance, PPS is widely used in gears, bearings, and transmission parts. Suzhou Napu’s PPS bearings reduced joint energy loss by 25%, while Nanjing Julong’s PPS material contributed to an overall weight reduction of 20-30% in robotic systems.

2. Motion System Materials

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)
Due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, CFRP dominates in robotic arm and leg structures. Boston Dynamics’ Atlas employs CFRP in its legs to perform high-difficulty jumps, while Unitree’s Walker enhances stability with CFRP casing.

Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW-PE) Fiber
With 7-10 times the strength of steel and only 1/8th the weight, UHMW-PE is the preferred material for tendon-driven robotic hands. Nanshan Zhishang’s UHMW-PE fibers have been successfully applied in multiple robotic hand systems.

3. Electronics & Sensing Systems

Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP)
Thanks to its superior dielectric properties and dimensional stability, LCP is used in high-frequency signal connectors and precision electronic components, as seen in Unitree’s H1.

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) & Polyimide (PI) Films
These materials form the core of electronic skin (e-skin). Hanwei Technology’s PDMS-based flexible sensors achieve ultra-high sensitivity (detection down to 0.1 kPa), while XELA Robotics’ uSkin utilizes PI films for multi-modal environmental perception.

4. Exterior & Functional Components

Polyamide (PA, Nylon)
With excellent machinability and mechanical strength, PA is used in 1X Technologies’ Neo Gamma robot’s woven nylon exterior.

PC-ABS Engineering Plastic
Due to its superior moldability, PC-ABS is the primary material for SoftBank’s NAO robot shell.

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)
Combining rubber-like elasticity with plastic processability, TPE is ideal for bio-inspired skin and joint cushioning. It is expected to be used in the next-generation Atlas robot’s flexible joints.

Future Prospects

As humanoid robotics advances, material innovation will play a pivotal role in enhancing durability, energy efficiency, and human-like adaptability. Emerging materials such as self-healing polymers, shape-memory alloys, and graphene-based composites may further revolutionize robotic design.