Development of Near Infrared Light and Electrically Responsive Shape Memory Polymer Composites Based on Copolyester Thermoplastic Elastomer/Polycaprolactone Blend and Carbon Nanotubes

Tekay E., Aslan V. U., Orhun T., Şen S., Aybakan B.

Journal of Applied Polymer Science, vol.142, no.45, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 142 Issue: 45
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1002/app.57742
  • Journal Name: Journal of Applied Polymer Science
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, PASCAL, Aerospace Database, Applied Science & Technology Source, Biotechnology Research Abstracts, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Communication Abstracts, Compendex, INSPEC, Metadex, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Keywords: carbon nanotube, electro-active, photo-responsive, shape memory, TPE
  • Inonu University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are carbon-based materials that not only exhibit excellent electrical and thermal conductivity but also possess the ability to absorb light, thereby providing a photothermal effect. Due to these characteristics, when utilized in conjunction with a thermally sensitive shape memory polymer (SMP) matrix, a multi-stimuli responsive shape memory effect (SME) can be achieved. In this study, a thermally responsive SMP blend composed of a copolyester thermoplastic elastomer (COPE) and polycaprolactone (PCL) was transformed into electroactive and light-responsive shape memory polymer composites by incorporating multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at loadings of 3, 5, 10, and 20 phr. The composite containing 20 phr CNT achieved an electrical resistance of 2.03 Ω cm. Under a voltage of 4 V, the same composite performed Joule heating, resulting in an electroactive shape recovery of 95.67%. It was observed that the light-responsive shape memory effect is more advantageous at lower filler loadings. The composite with 3 phr filler achieved complete shape recovery under NIR light with a wavelength of 808 nm and an intensity of 108 mW/cm2. The produced composites exhibit multifunctional properties, making them promising candidates for advanced applications including sensors, actuators, responsive smart textiles, and innovative 4D printing technologies.