4D-Printing - Fused Deposition Modeling Printing and PolyJet Printing with Shape Memory Polymers Composite

The main objective of this paper is to use 4D printing method to design shape memory polymers (SMP) for developing smart textile and wearable products. SMPs are stimulating, responsive shape-changing polymers that can change its shape upon exposure to an external stimulus, such as light, temperature, chemicals, etc. In this paper, polyurethan SMP, which can change its shape as the temperature changes, was employed. We offer two methods for controlling the temperature of the specimen. The first method is to mix the conductive SWCNT into the SMP and the second method is to simultaneously print the SMP and a conductive material (Silver paste), the sample will be heated by applying an electric current to it. SMP pellets were processed to be suitable for each method for fabrication of two types of SMP and SMP/m-SWCNT arrays using an extrusion system, both of which were input materials for 3D deposition models (FDM). The samples printed using this system were compared and assessed. Herein, the comparisons of the materials, structures, processes, and the effectiveness of the methods are shown. The samples were compared to determine the advantages and disadvantages of each method, to form a basis on which a proper method for wearable products can be selected.