Carbon nanotube–polyurethane shape memory nanocomposites with low trigger temperature

• Shape memory polymer nanocomposites with low trigger temperature were developed.
• The carbon nanotube–reinforced nanocomposites were obtained via melt mixing.
• The nanocomposites exhibit high shape fixity and recovery ratio above 98%.
• The nanocomposites have applications for controlling tags in the area of frozen food.

Ester-based polyurethane (PU) with low glass transition temperature was used to develop shape memory nanocomposites with low trigger temperature. Pristine carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and oxidized CNTs (ox-CNTs) were introduced by melt mixing to improve the mechanical and shape memory properties of the PU matrix. The dispersion of CNTs on the mechanical properties and shape memory behaviors of the nanocomposites were also investigated. The results show that better dispersion of ox-CNTs contributes to more stiffness effect below glass transition temperature (Tg) while lower storage modulus (E′) above Tg. The nanocomposites exhibit high shape fixity and recovery ratio above 98%. The ox-CNT/PU nanocomposite shows higher shape recovery ratio for the first cycle, faster recovery due to better dispersion of CNTs and have potential applications for controlling tags or proof marks in the area of frozen food. The trigger temperature can be tailored by controlling the Tg of the PU matrix or the content of the nanofillers.

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