Shape memory polymers are smart material that as result ofexternal stimulus can change from a temporary deformed shape back to originalshape. Shape memory polymers have the capability of changing their shape inresponse to external stimulus. One of these external stimuli is temperature.Thermo responsive shape memory polymer consist of two polymer component andresulting into two phases one with higher melting temperature than other. Shapememory effect is not related to specific material property of single polymer,but instead of is realized from combination of polymer structure and polymermorphologies.
The shape memory behavior can be produced with appropriatestructure and morphologies combination with significantly different chemicalcomposition. The shape memory polymer system after processing into a permanentform which can be deformed to produced another shape. First the polymer systemis conventionally processed to receive its permanent shape , deforming thepolymer system to its temporary shape is called programming which could includecold drawing, deforming , and or heating. A permanent shape can therefore bestored in the system while it takes the induce the temporary shape
The phases corresponding to higher melting polymer componentacts as the physical cross- links responsible for a permanent shape. The secondcomponent acts as a molecular switch and helps to freeze temporary shape belowthe transition temperate or molecular temperature serving as transition orswitching temperature.
Designs of shape memory polymer are advanced to the levelthat it is possible to design and produce specific combination of propertiesrequired. The specific application by slightly varying the chemical compositionthe system. Some of the shape memory polymers are biocompatible orbiodegradable. Currently the main applications of shape memory polymer are inthe medical field. However, since shape memory polymers are not expensive toproduce, their application could be easily advanced to other areas to take advantagesof their unique properties. It can have various uses in industries such as autochokes in engine. In robotics it uses for smooth gripping foams of robots. Indefense it can be used for the production of aircraft which morph during flightand a suit adjustable for every season. Hence one can hope more researches anddevelopments in field of shape memory polymer serving for the welfare ofmankind
Thispaper was also presented at event under national level grand fiestaPRAGYAA-2010 Department of Textile Technology of
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