Multifunctional Polymer Composites: Self-Healing, Shape Memory, 3D Printing, and Flame Retardancy

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2022

Abstract

Nowadays, with the advancement in modern technology, applications of polymers become wider and deeper from high tech to everyday life. Polymer composites were developed to meet increasingly high-performance demands. However, in practical applications, the complex service environments and requirements for cost-saving drive the rapid development of multifunctional polymer composites. Besides the requirements for excellent mechanical performance, polymer composites are expected to possess self-healing ability in case damage or cracks occur within the materials, which calls for smart polymer composites. For smart composite applications, shape memory polymer composites have been utilized to fabricate various actuators upon different stimulating factors. Additionally, for the purpose of energy-saving and fabrication of customized complex constructions, it is hoped that the polymer composites are 3D printable. Finally, flame retardancy of polymer composites is another desired performance for their safely use in these fields with high fire risks, such as electrically driven shape memory polymer composite actuators. In this article, we mainly review the thermoset polymers and polymer composites with the above mentioned properties, including self-healing/recyclability, shape memory, 3D printing, and flame retardancy.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Encyclopedia of Materials: Plastics and Polymers

First Page

320

Last Page

335

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