Narrow response temperature range with excellent reversible shape memory effect for semi-crystalline networks as soft actuators

Complex and controlled reversible actuation inevitably relies on changing thermal fields (direct or indirect) for semi-crystalline reversible shape memory networks. Unfortunately, the non-tunability of thermal signals often brings potential limitations to actuators' applications. In practice, a wide response temperature range (T-range) formed by T-high and T-low in the remarkable reversible actuation is an obvious fact. Herein, we demonstrate the tunability of the transition temperatures while stably maintaining excellent actuation abilities. We further verified that the narrow T-range (24 ?) that had not been reported could present more than 17% reversible strain. Special parameter optimization provides opportunities for potential non-implantable biomedical applications. Therefore, based on target 2W-SMP, a vehicle concept with the drug release and vehicle recovery ability was proposed, proving our approach's feasibility.

Automated summary

The paragraph discusses the inseparable relationship between complex and controlled reversible actuation and changing thermal fields in semi-crystalline reversible shape memory networks. It points out that the non-tunability of thermal signals often limits the applications of actuators. The authors demonstrate the tunability of transition temperatures while maintaining excellent actuation abilities, and they propose a vehicle concept with drug release and vehicle recovery ability based on target 2W-SMP, proving the feasibility of their approach.