Electroactive shape memory properties of graphene/epoxy-cyanate ester nanocomposites

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to prepare novel electroactive shape memory nanocomposites based on graphene and study the thermomechanical property and shape memory behavior of nanocomposites. Design/methodology/approach - Graphene was dispersed in N, N-dimethylformamide, and the mixture was spooned into epoxy-cyanate ester mixtures to form graphene/epoxy-cyanate ester nanocomposites. The nanocomposites were deformed under 150 degrees C, and shape recovery test was conducted under an electric voltage of 20-100 V. Findings - Graphene is used to improve the shape recovery behavior and performance of shape-memory polymers (SMPs) for enhanced electrical actuation effectiveness. With increment of graphene content, the shape recovery speed of nanocomposites increases significantly. Research limitations/implications - A simple way for fabricating electro-activated SMP nanocomposites has been developed by using graphene. Originality/value - The outcome of this study will help to fabricate the SMP nanocomposites with high electrical actuation effectiveness and improve the shape recovery speed of the nanocomposites.