Two-way thermo-responsive thermoset shape memory polymer based on benzoxazine/urethane alloys using as self-folding structures

Abstract

A novel two-way shape memory polymers derived from benzoxazine/urethane alloys (poly(BA-a/PU)) are developed in this research. The effect of urethane contents acted as spring elastomer on dynamic mechanical properties and two-way shape memory performance of the alloys was investigated. The experimental test and numerical simulation were also used to study and predict the ability of the developed 2WSMPs. The results showed that shape fixity at room temperature (RT) of poly(BA-a/PU) was enhanced in the range of 80–97% with the addition of PU contents. Shape recovery values to first temporary shape at Tg+20 °C of the specimen were 79–93%, whereas, those to second temporary shape at RT were 82–95%. Furthermore, 2WSMP based on poly(BA-a/PU) was reversely recovered between both temporary shapes more than 7 cycles. The experimental and numerical results revealed that poly(BA-a/PU) exhibited high 2WSMP performance for using as smart materials in self-folding structures application.