Shape memory is a process in which temporary shapes are retained in polymeric materials. Here, we summarize recent research efforts examining photomechanical effects in azobenzene-functionalized liquid crystal polymer networks and polyimides. Employing light with 445 nm wavelength, we demonstrate the ability to all-optically fix temporary shapes and recover permanent shapes in these materials. The optically fixable shape memory cycle is based on the reorientation of azobenzene in the glassy polymeric materials, which is retained in the absence of light. Accordingly, the molecular level disruption serves as a means to retain the photogenerated stress. While the magnitude of the photogenerated stress is typically small, examples of retention of mechanically stressed shapes are demonstrated.

Optically fixable shape memory in azobenzene-functionalized polymeric materials

248th National Meeting (2014)

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