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Vitrimer-Like Shape Memory Polymers: Characterization and Applications in Reshaping and Manufacturing
Tao Xi Wang1, Hong Mei Chen2, Abhijit Vijay Salvekar3
1College of Aerospace Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 29 Yudao Street, Nanjing 210016, China.
Polymers
|October 15, 2020
Summary
Vitrimer-like shape memory polymers (SMPs) exhibit shape recovery with stimuli and unique reversible cross-linking. This enables novel manufacturing techniques, including solid-state 3D printing for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Shape memory effect (SME) allows materials to recover their original shape upon specific stimuli.
- Conventional polymers (thermoplastics and thermosets) exhibit SME, but performance varies with material and processing.
- Vitrimers, a class of polymers with reversible cross-linking, bridge thermoplastic and thermoset properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize vitrimer-like behavior in shape memory polymers (SMPs) using heating-responsive SME.
- To explore potential applications of vitrimer-like SMPs and their composites.
- To demonstrate novel manufacturing approaches enabled by vitrimer-like SMPs.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of vitrimer-like behavior using a commercial polymer and heating-responsive SME.
- Presentation of case studies showcasing applications of vitrimer-like SMPs and composites.
- Analysis of the impact of reversible cross-linking on polymer properties and manufacturing.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated characterization of vitrimer-like behavior in a commercial polymer.
- Presented diverse applications for vitrimer-like SMPs and their composites.
- Highlighted the enabling role of vitrimer-like features in advanced polymer reshaping and manufacturing.
Conclusions:
- Vitrimer-like features offer new methods for reshaping polymers.
- These polymers facilitate innovative manufacturing processes, such as rapid solid-state 3D printing.
- Potential applications span various environments, including space, air, and sea missions.
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