Functional Materials

Open Opportunities

Development and Characterization of Magnet-Hydraulically Amplified Soft Actuators Empa Materials and Technology Center of Robotics This project aims to develop heat-resistant magnet-hydraulically amplified (MHA) soft actuators for high-performance wearable haptic devices or soft robotic systems. MHA actuators use an internal electromagnet and external permanent magnet embedded in a thin-film pouch to generate strong, high-frequency actuation forces by displacing water. While existing MHA actuators demonstrate promising capabilities such as robust operation in both air and water, their performance is limited by heat buildup within the membrane, reducing operational time. To address this limitation, the project proposes the use of heat-resistant materials in the actuator's construction. The work includes material selection, actuator fabrication using heat sealing or adhesive bonding methods, and comprehensive characterization of actuation performance (force, frequency, displacement, and repetition). Ultimately, the project will explore multi-dimensional actuator designs and integrate them into robotic systems such as wearable haptics and underwater devices. The work will be conducted at the Laboratory of Sustainability Robotics at Empa in collaboration with EPFL. Engineering and Technology Bachelor Thesis, ETH Zurich (ETHZ), Master Thesis, Semester Project

Modeling and Experimental Investigation of Machining Influences on Pillar Splitting for Fracture Mechanics Applications Empa High Performance Ceramics Micropillar splitting is a widely used method for assessing microscale fracture toughness due to its straightforward fabrication via FIB milling, laser ablation, or casting. However, these processes often introduce geometric and surface artifacts—particularly tapering and roughness—that can distort experimental results. Deviations from ideal pillar geometry and surface finish can misrepresent crack initiation and propagation, leading to inaccurate toughness values. This project uses finite element simulations with cohesive element modeling to investigate how tapering and surface roughness affect fracture behavior. By validating simulations with mechanical testing, the study aims to optimize sample preparation and develop correction factors, ultimately improving the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of micropillar splitting techniques. Interdisciplinary Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Master Thesis

Development of Physics-based Simulation for Aerial Additive Manufacturing Using Viscoelastic Fluids Empa Materials and Technology Center of Robotics Aerial Additive Manufacturing (Aerial AM) represents an innovative approach combining robotic flight systems and advanced materials science to construct infrastructure in remote or hazardous environments dynamically. Such aerial robotic platforms, equipped with manipulators that extrude viscoelastic materials, necessitate accurate simulation environments capable of concurrently modeling complex fluid dynamics and precise aerial robot kinematics and dynamics. The project will specifically evaluate simulation methodologies—Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) and Material Point Method (MPM)—to build an integrated, physics-based Aerial AM simulation framework Architecture, Urban Environment and Building, Engineering and Technology Master Thesis, Semester Project

Direct-Ink-Written Ionic‑Polymer Sensors and Actuators for Skin‑Conformal Wearable Electronics Empa Materials and Technology Center of Robotics Ionic electroactive polymer (IEP) actuators allow large bending angle and low voltage deformation with the potential to revolutionize the development of various functional soft robotic systems. For example, wearable systems, haptic devices, tactile sensors, and underwater/on-ground locomotion soft robots have been developed [1]. Among them, biocompatible material based IEP actuators have potencial especially for wearable device owing to intrisic biocompatibility. In the previous project, we successfully developed biocompatible mateiral based IEP actuators by direct ink writing systems [2]. What has been lacking is improvement of material property for robustness. Previous work used ionic fluid, activated carbon, and cellulose. But this time will use other biocompatible material such as PEDOT:PSS and PVDF. The next phase is to develop wearable sensors and actuators for proof-of-concept with complex geometry. The challenging points is material development which should be ideal for direct ink wrinting (shear-thinning behavior). Chemistry, Engineering and Technology ETH Zurich (ETHZ), Master Thesis, Semester Project

Position for Master Thesis in Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis combined with Spark Plasma Sintering for Ceramic Joining at ETH Zurich and Empa (Visit for 6 months) Empa High Performance Ceramics This Master's position offers the opportunity to explore innovative ceramic joining techniques using Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) and Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis (SHS). The project focuses on enhancing alumina-alumina bonding by developing novel interlayers activated through combustion synthesis, with promising results using the TiSi system. The student will conduct a literature review, prepare and characterize ceramic samples and interlayers, optimize joining processes, and evaluate joint properties through advanced characterization methods. This position provides hands-on experience in cutting-edge materials science and offers the potential to co-author scientific publications. Note: The candidate must have EU citizenship. Alloy Materials, Ceramics, Welding Technology Master Thesis