Applications of SMP

Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) have the ability to return from a deformed state
(temporary shape) to their original (permanent) shape induced by an external
influnce , such as temperature change.

Due to this special and unique properties, it finds its application in various fields.

Shape Memory Fabric

The shirt with long sleeve could be programmed so that the sleeves shorten as room
temperature becomes hotter. The fabric can be returned to its former shape by
applying heat . Ex: blowing air through hair dryer.

Ergonomic

The violin is made from the combination of shape memory polymer and carbon fibres.
The shape memory polymer used here is "Veriflex". It designed to help to reduce the
neck and shoulder pain of the player, as it can be reshaped as desired by the player.

SI Suits

The suit was developed to help the sailors on the oceans and sea. It adapts to the
temperature variations and maintains a person's body temperature constant. The
membrane gives ideal breathability in any given atmospheric condition.

Medical field

------- Sutures

In many operations which involve stitches inside the human body, a second operation
is done to remove the internal stitches. In such cases when biodegradable SMPs are
used they dissolve gradually and need not be removed as their composition is
harmless.

Space Applications

SMPs can be employed in large space structures, such as solar paddles, antennas and radiators.
Schematic of RAPDAR concept: (a) deployed configuration, and (b) stowed configuration.

Reflector--

Shape-memory polymer composite-reflector: (a) pre-deformed shape and (b)

recovered shape

Aerospace Application
Shape memory polymers facilitate wing shape change with the aid of mechnical
actuators and either heat or light.

The F-111 was the first variable-sweep wing aircraft to be put into production. Shown:
( three Australian F-111s).

Electornics Application
SMPs have been investigated for use in the active disassembly of electronic
products . In one application poly(urethane) SMP fasteners were designed and
evaluated for the active disassembly of mobile phones.

Defence Applications
From a defence perspective, there are a number of potential applications for SMPs.
Shape memory foams can be used to make parts that are light weight and compact
thus easily transported. Once in the 'field', an increase in temperature can be used to
regenerate the original shape of the part.

SPM Foams

A technology called cold hibernated elastic memory (CHEM) based on SMPs

received much attention
in recent years. This CHEM materials utilizes SMPs foam structure or sandwich
structures made of
SMP foam cores and polymeric composite skins.

Automobile Application

SMPs have been used in automobile engineering, and many interesting products
have been developed . The reasons for using SMPs are due to their excellent
advantages such as shape-memory behavior, easy manufacturing, high deformed
strain and low cost. That is why they have attracted a lot of attention in automobile
engineering .

Some new research :-

Shape memory polymers may serve as technology platform for a safe way of
information storage and release.

The potential applications of SME enables us to reshape our design in many ways.
From biomedical devices to space missions, from smart textile design to active
disassembly of electrical devices, SME is gradually changing our fundamental design
methodology.