shape memory polymers

[opticsman]

Can anyone point to a good article on shape memory polymers? I am more interested in the pratical applications and limitations. How it is applied etc. I understand it is not normally possible to injection mould it . Can the shape of the two states in a thermal type be any desired shape ? Thanks. Opticsman.

 

[TheAnswerGuy]

opticsman,

I am not exactlly sure what you are after here.
When refering to Thermoplastic Elastomers the value that you should consider is "Compression Set".

If it is a reshapable polymer that you are looking for?
Then you need to go to

http://www.google.com

and do a search on a material called "Proprinate".

 

[opticsman]

Thanks. I am looking produce an actuator which swtiches between one shape and the memory shape at a certain temperature. ( must be a polymer). At this stage I am just trying to find out about the techniclabsics and perhaps examples of simialr , real applications.Opticsman

 

[patprimmer]

I think cross linkable polyethylene might do what you want

Regards
pat

 

[chaving]

A shape memory polymer is a polymer that after moulded can be deformed. The deformation is permanent until heat is applied and then it returns to it's pre-formed shape.

Auto-motive companies were looking at this 10 years ago for body panels .. guess they wanted to loose the technology because I never came across it again.

It should be possible howver to choose a material and work within its Tg range and yield range to design a part which can have a memory,

It may also be possible to use other influences such as gas to retore a parts shape.

Hope this helps.

 

[opticsman]

Thanks. And to all replies.