Electromagnetic activation of shape memory polymer networks containing magnetic nanoparticles

By incorporation of surface-modified superparamagnetic nanoparticles into, shape memory polymer matrices, remote actuation of complex shape transitions by electromagnetic fields is possible. The composite thermosets of oligo(E-caprolactone)dimethacrylate/butyl acrylate contain between 2 and 12 wt.-% magnetite nanoparticles serving as nanoantennas for magnetic heating. It is shown that the particles are dispersed homogenously within the matrix and that the basic thermal and mechanical properties of the polymer matrix are maintained. The specific loss power of the particles is determined to be 30 W.g(-1) at 300 kHz and 5.0 W. During the shape transition at 43 degrees C, no further temperature increase is observed.