Electro-Responsive Polystyrene Shape Memory Polymer Nanocomposites

Microstructure, thermo-mechanical, electrical properties and shape recovery efficiency of carbon nano-particles (CNPs) enhanced polystyrene (PS) nanocomposites were characterized. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis showed an increase in glass transition temperature (T-g) and enhancement of the storage modulus for the polystyrene (PS) composites with the addition of CNPs. Instrumental nanoindentation experiments revealed micro-scale enhancement of mechanical properties by introducing the CNPs into the polymer matrix. Electrical conductivity and dielectric properties of the nanocomposites were dependent on CNP concentrations, testing frequency and temperature. Electro-triggering recovery of a microcantilever made from the CNP/PS shape memory nanocomposite was has been demonstrated and the recovery rates were studied as a function of applied voltage.