The present application relates to compositions and methods of making flexible composite materials that are capable of moving, on a micro- or macro-scale, in response to an applied magnetic field and localized heat from a heat source. The present disclosure further provides systems and methods of using the flexible composite material as an actuator for performing a mode of actuation. In one embodiment, the flexible composite material forms a wireless actuator that, when irradiated with light, is capable of micro- and macro-scale motion acting through the interplay of optically absorptive elements and low-Curie temperature magnetic particles.

An insert for a cylinder liner which is capable of trapping heat in the combustion chamber is provided. The insert extends circumferentially around a center axis and longitudinally from an upper end to a lower end. The insert includes an inner portion presenting an inner surface facing the center axis and an outer portion presenting an outer surface facing away from the center axis. The inner portion is formed of an iron-based material, such as steel, and the outer portion is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of not greater than 3.5 W/mK, for example ceria stabilized zirconia. The inner and outer portions each present a thickness, and the thickness can form a gradient between the upper end and the lower end of the insert. For example, the thickness of the outer portion can be greater at the upper end than at the lower end of the insert.

An insert for a cylinder liner which is capable of trapping heat in the combustion chamber is provided. The insert extends circumferentially around a center axis and longitudinally from an upper end to a lower end. The insert includes an inner portion presenting an inner surface facing the center axis and an outer portion presenting an outer surface facing away from the center axis. The inner portion is formed of an iron-based material, such as steel, and the outer portion is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of not greater than 3.5 W/mK, for example ceria stabilized zirconia. The inner and outer portions each present a thickness, and the thickness can form a gradient between the upper end and the lower end of the insert. For example, the thickness of the outer portion can be greater at the upper end than at the lower end of the insert.