Shape-Memory Polymers for Aerospace Applications - Novel Synthesis, Modeling, Characterization and Design

A technical analysis of shape-memory polymers (SMPs) and their composites, particularly in adaptive materials, this volume introduces designs linking SMPs to metals, elastomers, foams, nanoparticles and other materials, as well as the engineering of SMPs directly into parts and active (morphing) components. Attention is given to controlled structures activated by light, heat, electricity and other energy sources, as well as the connection of SMPs with actuators. Part one discusses the activation and analysis of the shape memory response, including shape recovery. Subsequent chapters offer modeling and other tools for investigating the SMP response, including shape recovery. Part three combines the response with micro- and macro-scale reinforcing phases for producing SMP composites, and the following section discusses synthetic and nanostructured customization of the shape memory polymer response. The final section focuses on specific SMP concepts in aircraft, including morphing skins, wings, unimorph composite actuators for deployment, and variable stiffness elements.