Remote activation of nanomagnetite reinforced shape memory polymer foam

Shape memory polymer foams are thermally activated using remote induction of magnetic susceptor filler particles dispersed in the thermoset foam matrix. Material properties and foam performance are characterized and compared over a range of fillers, induction parameters, and packaging configurations. This investigation indicates an improvement in heating performance for increased weight percentage of filler without sacrifice in foam thermo-mechanical properties up to 10 wt% filler. Detailed analysis of the results indicates that the primary factor in improving heating performance is heat transfer between the filler nanoparticles and the bulk foam.