A rapidly recoverable shape memory polymer with a topologically well-controlled poly(ethyl methacrylate) structure. Issue 36 (7th September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lai, Jingjuan; Li, Xingjian; Wu, Ruiqing; Deng, Jinni; Pan, Yi; Zheng, Zhaohui; Ding, Xiaobin
• Is Part Of: Soft matter. Volume 14:Issue 36(2018)
• Page Start: 7302
• Page End: 7309
• Publication Date: 2018-09-07
• Subjects: Soft condensed matter -- Periodicals; 530.413
• DOI: 10.1039/c8sm01404c
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-683X

Abstract

Abstract : A topologically well-controlled network shape memory poly(ethyl methacrylate) (CN-SMPEMA) is designed and fabricated by introducing two tetra-armed functional structures simultaneously as well-defined structure units. Abstract : Many of the unique properties of a conventionally crosslinked shape memory network are not found at the same time, and this is a large challenge for the development of advanced shape memory functional materials. In this work, a topologically well-controlled network shape memory poly(ethyl methacrylate) (CN-SMPEMA) is designed and fabricated by introducing two tetra-armed functional structures simultaneously as well-defined structure units to promote switch segment and net-point uniform distribution via the combined technology of the unique controllable atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and copper(i )-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). Compared with conventionally crosslinked networks, the as-prepared CN-SMPEMA not only exhibits a combination of excellent mechanical properties, shape fixity, shape recovery ratios and outstanding cycling stability, but also displays rapid recoverability. Additionally, a feasible molecular mechanism for the shape memory effect of the CN-SMPEMA system is analyzed and proposed. We anticipate that such a topologically well-defined network shape memory material with multiple excellent properties will broaden the practical application range of acrylate-based shape memory polymer materials.