Two-Way Shape Memory Polymer Based Artificial Muscles

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2022

Abstract

Polymeric artificial muscles, which mimic the function of human muscles, have found wide-spread applications in soft robot, actuator, gripper, and smart textile. A recent development is that conventional polymeric fibers with negative coefficient of thermal expansion (NCTE), such as Nylon fiber and Polyethylene fiber, can demonstrate torsional actuation or linear actuation through simple twist insertion. As compared to polymeric fibers with NCTEs, two-way shape memory polymers (2W-SMPs), which expand upon cooling and contract upon heating, already demonstrate higher linear actuation than Nylon fibers or polyethylene fibers. By twist insertion, even higher linear actuation can be achieved. In this article, we will introduce the concept of 2W-SMPs, procedures to fabricate 2W-SMP based artificial muscles, and approaches to evaluate their actuation behavior. In demonstration of the concept, fabrication procedure, and evaluation approach, a chemically cross-linked 2W-SMP, poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (cPEVA), will be utilized as an example. Future perspectives in this research direction will also be presented.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Encyclopedia of Materials: Plastics and Polymers

First Page

451

Last Page

459

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