Evaluation of Shape Recovery Performance of Shape Memory Polymers with Carbon-Based Fillers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are advanced materials with potential in various applications.
• Enhancing thermal properties and shape recovery is crucial for expanding SMP utility.
• Carbon-based fillers offer promising routes for material property modification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of single and mixed carbon-based fillers on SMP properties.
• To optimize thermal conductivity and shape recovery performance of SMPs.
• To understand the role of filler interactions in property enhancement.

Main Methods:

• Incorporation of single and mixed carbon fillers (carbon fiber and graphite) into SMP matrices.
• Characterization of glass transition temperature (Tg), thermal conductivity, and shape recovery.
• Analysis of filler interactions and their influence on material performance.

Main Results:

• Mixed fillers significantly improved thermal conductivity and shape recovery time.
• A composite with 60 μm carbon fiber (10 wt%) + graphite (20 wt%) showed a 290.37% increase in thermal conductivity.
• Composites with CF (2.5 wt%) + graphite (2.5 wt%) exhibited a 60.99% reduction in shape recovery time.
• Higher graphite content at 15 wt% improved thermal conductivity by 37.42% and reduced recovery time by 6.98%.

Conclusions:

• Mixed carbon-based fillers are effective in enhancing SMP thermal properties and shape recovery.
• Filler interactions, particularly in 3D structures, are key to improved heat transfer and energy conservation.
• Optimized mixed fillers, especially with high graphite content, offer significant performance gains for SMPs requiring rapid response.