Internal stress storage in shape memory polymer nanocomposites

We examine the storage and release of internal stresses in shape memory polymers reinforced with a dispersion of nanometer-scale SiC particles. A quantitative Rietveld analysis of diffraction peaks was used to measure changes in the lattice parameter of the SiC particles after permanent deformation at 25degreesC, and subsequent shape recovery induced by heating to 120degreesC. Under 50% compression of the composite material, the nanoparticles store a finite compressive stress, which is almost completely released during heated strain recovery. The values of the stored internal stresses in the particles are compared to values based on micromechanic. calculations. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.