An interface nanostructured array guided high performance electrochemical actuator

Here we report a novel electrochemical actuator using a hierarchically architectured nanostructure electrode. Vertically aligned NiO nanowall arrays, which act as an interface layer, are in situ grown on a free-standing graphene–carbon nanotube hybrid film. The large specific surface area and fast ion transmission channels of this nanostructured array interface enable us to achieve large deformation in quick switching response (18.4 mm per 0.05 s), high strain and stress rates (8.31% s−1, 12.16 MPa s−1) and excellent durability upon 500 000 times continuous operations in air.