Reversible Shape Memory Polymers and Composites: Synthesis, Modeling and Design.

摘要

Reconfigurable multifunctional structures, which allow combined changes of shape, functionality and mechanical properties on demand, require new adaptive materials and novel chemistry that permit reversible modulation of mechanical properties in effective manner. They also demand the development of robust modeling and design tools based on a fundamental understanding of the complex and time-variant properties of the material and mechanization structure in diverse environments. In this research, we: (1) developed two new classes of two-way shape memory polymers (SMPs); (2) fostered these two SMPs to free- standing SMP composites with enhanced reversible modulation through novel composite design; (3) pursued a fundamental understanding of underlying physics of the proposed two-way SMPs and composites; (4) established modeling and simulation-design tools for applications of these novel materials for reconfigurable aerospace structures; and (5) explored design, fabrication and testing of novel SMP devices enabling for Air Force applications.