Traditional activation of shape memory response, direct heating, is not possible or attractive for many applications.  Activation by near-infrared (NIR) irradiation is a desirable alternative for many applications.  A novel technique of producing SMPs that can be activated remotely through NIR irradiation is reported.  The system is based on commercially available polyurethane and gold nanoparticles produced by a wet synthesis method.   Activation of the shape memory response is achieved through the wavelength-dependent photothermal effect exhibited by the nanorods.  The composite is produced by a simple, one-step solvent blending approach.  The system can be tailored to respond only when irradiated by a narrow band of wavelengths, by simply changing the shape of the particles.  The speed of the response can be controlled by irradiation intensity.  The effects of the gold incorporation on the shape memory properties, such as recoverable strain and recovery stress, are reported.

Remote photothermal activation of shape memory polymers: Polyurethan - gold nanocomposites

245th National Meeting (2013)

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