Flexible and electro-induced shape memory Poly(Lactic Acid)-based material constructed by inserting a main-chain liquid crystalline and selective localization of carbon nanotubes

Abstract

To realize electro-induced shape memory effect for poly (lactic acid) (PLA)-based material, a liquid crystalline, poly [4,4’-bis(6-hydroxyhexyloxy) biphenyl phenylsuccinate] (PBDPS), was introduced in its main chain, which can not only provide high flexibility but also make carbon nanotubes (CNT) distribute selectively in the polymer matrix via π-π interaction. The presence of CNT resulted in the obvious enhancement of tensile strength as well as highly electrical conductivity. Notably, the as-prepared nanocomposites showed good shape memory performance with high recovery rate, high shape fixation and recovery ratios.