Shape Memory Polymers

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Shape Memory PolymersVeriflex(TM)

• by
• Corey M. Fitzgerald
• MEEN 3344

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Shape Memory Polymers

• First introduced in Japan 1984, then U.S.
• Special blend of two of more polymers
• Ex. Polyethylene, Polyisoprene, and Polyurethane
• Covalent cross-linked bonds
• Uses shape-memory effect by thermal induction
• Change of Shapes by thermal stimuli
• Permanent, Temporary, and Permanent
• Lightweight and high-energy diffusion
• Cheap and efficient alternative to shape-memory
  alloys
• Also pliable and can be stretched, bent, and
  folded

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Veriflex (TM)

• Developed by Cornerstone Research Group (CRG)
  2004
• Shape memory polymer resin
• Thermal Activation customizable from -20F to 520F
• High temperature elastic, and flexible state
• Low temperature returns to rigid state and very
  strong
• Reshaped several times without losing material
  integrity

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Potential Applications

• Morphing wing structure
• Self-repairing auto bodies
• Custom reusable mandrels
• Self-deployable structures for space
• Medical devices (invasive surgery)

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Current Applications

• Automatic chokes for combustion engines
• Protection covers for assembly lines
• Damping material
• Spectacle frames
• Utensils for handicapped people
• artificial finger nails

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References

• Cornerstone Research Group Website
  http//crgrp.net/
• Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Website
  http//www.darp.gov/
• http//www.egr.un.edu
• Wiley InterScience Website
• http//www.interscience.wiley.com
• Encyclopedia of Materials Science and Technology
  (2005)