Photothermally induced shape memory effects in thermoplastic polyurethanes with gold nanoparticles

A photoinduced shape memory effect was demonstrated in nanocomposites consisting of thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) and embedded gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Using a synergistic approach combining confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy and fast scanning chip calorimetry (FSCC), we investigated the localized melting of the TPU crystalline phase, induced by photothermal heating of AuNPs under green laser irradiation. Furthermore, the influence of the nanoparticles on the crystallization behavior and polymorphic transitions of TPU was also examined using structural and thermal analysis techniques. The observed light-triggered thermal response highlights the potential of these nanocomposites for remote, spatially resolved actuation in advanced shape memory and soft robotic systems.