Analysis of Shape Memory Polymer-Alloy Composites: Modeling and Parametric Studies

Shape memory composites (SMCs) based on shape memory alloys (SMAs) and shape memory polymers (SMPs) are interesting due to their controllable temperature-dependent mechanical properties. The complementary characteristics of SMAs and SMPs can be used to create materials or systems with shape recovery created by the SMA and shape fixity provided by the SMP. In this research, three SMC operating regimes are identified and the behavior of SMC structures is analyzed by focusing on composite fixity and interfacial stresses. Analytical models show that certain SMPs can achieve sufficient shape fixing. COMSOL Multi-Physics simulations are in agreement with analytical expressions for shape fixity and interfacial stresses. Analytical models are developed for an end-coupled linear SMP-SMA two-way actuation system.