Multiscale-structuring of rapid response shape memory polymers based on self-assembly reverse micelles

How to reasonably fabricate shape memory polymers (SMPs) with rapid response without sacrificing the shape fixity and recovery are a critical issue but remains a challenge. Inspired by the relation between biological structure and function, a multiscale design of SMPs is reported by constructing a two-phase architecture via embedding self-assembly “reverse micelles” as elastic region into stiff matrix to enhance the elastic recovery. As a result of the two-phase architecture, the single polymer network exhibits a combination of perfect shape fixity and recovery, rapid and strong response and outstanding cycle life. The mechanism on quick response of the material is analyzed and confirmed by the study about the stress relaxation and recovery stress. Such a shape memory material may be an ideal candidate for potential applications as actuator and biomedical devices.