Electro-induced shape memory effect of 4D printed auxetic composite using PLA/TPU/CNT filament embedded synergistically with continuous carbon fiber: A theoretical & experimental analysis. (1st September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dong, Ke; Panahi-Sarmad, Mahyar; Cui, Ziying; Huang, Xiayan; Xiao, Xueliang
• Is Part Of: Composites. Number 220(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09-01
• Subjects: 4D printing -- Auxetic structure -- Carbon fiber & filler -- PLA/TPU/CNT Blend nanocomposite -- Shape memory effect; Composite materials -- Periodicals; Materials science -- Periodicals; Composite materials; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 620.118
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2021.108994
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-8368

Abstract

Abstract: A novel strategy is proposed to fabricate continuous fiber-reinforced electro-induced shape memory auxetic composites (CFRSMCs) by combining conductive filaments and continuous carbon fiber through 3D printing technology. In the first step, the conductive filaments were manufactured based on Poly-lactic-acid/Thermoplastic-urethane/Carbon-nanotube (PLA/TPU/CNT) blend nanocomposite, and the CFRSMCs were then prepared, composing different carbonaceous fiber content with a variety of extrusion width. The main aim of the present work is to evaluate the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties as well as the shape memory effect (SME). With regard to this, the negative Poisson's ratio effect of the printed CFRSMCs was precisely assessed through tensile measurement, and a well-adjusted theoretical model was employed for further predictions. Accordingly, as compared to free-fiber printed samples, the CFRSMCs exhibited superb mechanical properties and rapid electro-induced SME (a recovery ratio of 94% under 10 V within 25 s). Moreover, due to tailoring co-conductive networks by the CNTs and carbon fibers in the printed composites, a great deal of activation capability in the auxetic CFRSMCs could be revealed by various stimuli and for smart applications. This advanced strategy indicates a great potential to fabricate various auxetic electro-induced CFRSMCs used in small scale of deployable trusses or other lightweight smart components like adaptive energy absorption devices and human-scale orthopedic materials. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Continuous fiber reinforced shape memory composites (CFRSMCs) are developed via 4D printing. The CFRSMCs exhibit a rapid electro-induced shape memory effect owing to the integrated conductive network. Auxetic structural CFRSMCs exhibit a predictable negative Poisson's ratio under tensile loading. Specific parts of the auxetic CFRSMCs can be activated by applying stimulus to the structure's selective ends.