Shape memory effect and viscoelastic behavior of SMP epoxy filled with carbon particles

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a relatively new kind of smart materials with the capability of large shape memory effect. In this study, a series of shape memory epoxy composites filled with varied carbon black ( CB) contents were prepared. The shape memory effect and thermomechanical behavior of the materials were experimentally investigated. The viscoelastic properties at different temperatures were characterized by creep tests. The results show that the materials exhibit excellent shape memory effects. The CB additive has no remarkable influence on the critical shape transition temperature, but significantly improved the viscous resistance.