Fabrication and analysis of dual-scaled shape memory foam

Abstract

We analyzed dual-scaled shape memory polyurethane foams that recovered from the compressed shape to their initial dimension at above the transition temperature. Such a recovery leads to an enhancement in the thermal features, especially thermal resistance. Dual scale shape memory foams were fabricated by using the salt leaching method, and their internal structure was analyzed. The porosity and interfacial thermal resistance of the dual scale foam were enhanced significantly, which led to the excellent thermal resistance. The thermal behavior of foamed materials was modelled analytically. The enhancement in mechanical properties was induced by the dual size pores. In addition, thermo-mechanical properties of the shape memory foam, such as shape recovery, shape fixity, and shape repeatability, were characterized.