Non-contact magnetic actuated shape-programmable poly(aryl ether ketone)s and their structural variation during the deformation process

Abstract

Here, a series of thermoplastic shape memory poly(aryl ether ketone)s (PAEKs) with programmable transition temperature were synthesized via a condensation polymerization reaction. The introduction of flexible segments and side groups onto PAEK main chains promoted the formation of the alternating rigid-flexible structures and the enhanced shape memory properties. The synthesized PAEKs exhibited the great thermal stability and strength which could greatly meet the demands in engineering applications. In addition, non-contact actuation of the shape memory behaviors of PAEKs was realized through the integration of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with magnetocaloric effect. More significantly, small-angle X-ray scattering analysis was utilized to reveal the transition of molecular chains and phase states during the stretching and heating processes. The change of internal structures and orientation of molecular chains during the deformation process might contribute to the regulation of shape memory behaviors. These studies on the fabrication of shape memory PAEKs with non-contact magnetic actuation performances and the investigation of their structural variation during the stretching and heating process were expected to open doors for the fabrication and investigation of new type of shape memory polymers.