Triple-shape memory polybenzoxazine resins and their composites

Abstract

Shape memory polymer (SMP) as a new type of smart material can be programmed into a temporary shape by external excitation. Benzoxazine is a novel thermosetting resin with excellent heat resistance, high glass transition temperature (Tg) and mechanical properties. Here, triple-shape memory polybenzoxazines with high Tg were obtained by copolymerization of phenol/polyetheramine with phenol/furanamine benzoxazines. Electrically driven composites were prepared using multi-walled carbon nanotubes, and the SMP electrically driven function was achieved by forming a complete and continuous conductive permeable network inside the composites, shape recovery can be completed in 15 s at 60v. Furthermore, at high temperatures the carbon residue rate is increased to 45 % at 800 °C, demonstrating the high performance of electrically driven shape memory polymer composites. The realization of the triple and electrically induced shape memory properties of shape memory polybenzoxazines broadens the way for their application in extreme high-temperature environments in aerospace and aviation.