Prototyping of 4D-printed self-shaping building skin in architecture: Design, fabrication, and investigation of a two-way shape memory composite (TWSMC) façade panel

Shape memory polymers (SMP) and composites (SMPC) may be used for many applications in Space, from self-deployable structures (such as solar sails, panels, shields, booms and antennas), to grabbing systems for Space debris removal, up to new-concept actuators for telescope mirror tuning. Experiments on the International Space Station are necessary for testing prototypes in relevant environment, above all for the absence of gravity which affects deployment of slender structures but also to evaluate the aging effects of the Space environment. In fact, several aging mechanisms are possible, from polymer cracking to cross-linking and erosion, and different behaviors are expected as well, from consolidating the temporary shape to composite degradation. Evaluating the possibility of shape recovery because of sun exposure is another interesting point. In this study, a possible experiment on the ISS is shown with the aim of evaluating the aging effect of Space on material performances. The sample structure is described as well as the testing strategy.

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Synergistic water-driven shape memory performance and improving mechanism of grading photo-thermal curing shape memory composite

Materials & Design ◽

10.1016/j.matdes.2022.110397 ◽

2022 ◽

pp. 110397

Author(s):

Wenxin Wang ◽

Jing Yang ◽

Wei Li ◽

Yongtao Yao ◽

Yaqian Yan ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Shape Memory ◽

Memory Performance ◽

Thermal Curing ◽

Shape Memory Composite

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Internal friction of a new ingredient heterogeneous shape memory composite

10.1117/12.779388 ◽

2007 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

Tingyong Xing ◽

Yanjun Zheng ◽

Lishan Cui

Keyword(s):

Internal Friction ◽

Shape Memory ◽

Shape Memory Composite

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Polymer Matrix Composites with Shape Memory Properties

Materials Science Forum ◽

10.4028/www.scientific.net/msf.783-786.2509 ◽

2014 ◽

Vol 783-786 ◽

pp. 2509-2516 ◽

Cited By ~ 8

Author(s):

Fabrizio Quadrini

Keyword(s):

Carbon Fiber ◽

Shape Memory ◽

Epoxy Resin ◽

Composite Structures ◽

Polymer Matrix Composites ◽

Fiber Reinforced ◽

Mechanical Stiffness ◽

Shape Memory Properties ◽

Carbon Fiber Reinforced ◽

Shape Memory Composite

Shape memory composites and structures were produced by using carbon fiber reinforced prepregs and a shape memory epoxy resin. The matrix of the prepregs was an epoxy resin as well but without remarkable shape memory properties. This way, two different technical solutions were adopted. Shape memory composite tubes and plates were made by adding a shape memory layer between two carbon fiber reinforced skins. An optimal adhesion between the different layers was achieved thanks to the compatibility of the prepreg matrix and the shape memory material. Shape memory composite structures were also produced by joining composite shells with shape memory foams. Mechanical, dynamic mechanical and shape recovery tests were carried out to show the properties of the composite materials and structures. Results confirm the ability of this class of materials to easily change their shape without affecting the mechanical stiffness of the recovered structures.

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