SHAPE MEMORY POLYMERS FOR EXTERNAL FRACTURE FIXATION

摘要

Shape memory polymers that can be trained to have a one-way or two-way memory possess several advantages over shape memory metals such as Nitinol. These materials are being used in a variety of applications including, toys, house hold items, sensors, actuators and biomedical devices. In this investigation, the feasibility of using a commercial shape memory polymer, Calo.MER™ for external fracture fixation has been studied. Experiments have been conducted with injection molded polymers having glass transition temperatures of 37°C and 55°C. The molded samples were subjected to a series of heating and cooling cycles to induce the shape memory effect. An optimum cycle with over 90% shape recovery was developed. The tensile properties of the polymer after various immersion times in Ringer's solution were measured.