Shape memory epoxy foams for space applications

In order to design an actuator in shape memory epoxy foam for space applications, three different configurations were chosen: compression, flexure and torsion. Samples were produced by means of solid state foaming, and multiple recovery tests were carried out to measure the actuation load as a function of the temperature. Thanks to the reported results, prototypes of shape memory epoxy foams were selected for an experiment on the International Space Station during the last mission of the Space Shuttle Endeavour.

► Shape memory polymer (SMP) foams were produced by solid state foaming.
► SMP foam samples were used to simulate the behavior of small actuators.
► The actuation load of SMP samples was measured by using multiple recovery tests.
► An experiment on the International Space Shuttle has been designed.