Shape memory polymer composite circular and square hollow members for deployable structures

•Fibre reinforced shape memory polymer composite structural members.•Shape deformable composite structural members for deployable structures.•FEA based damage onset predictions during programming.•Characterisation of tension–tension fatigue properties. The exciting shape memorizing ability of shape memory polymer composites (SMPCs) has attracted the interest of researchers catering to the needs of modern constructions. As well as outer space related applications, SMPCs can be used effectively in civil construction techniques. SMPC integrated structures have the capability to deform into a compact shape for easy transportation to site where they can be recovered to their original shape. This paper details the application of the shape memory effect (SME) in glass SMPC circular and square hollow (CHS and SHS) structural members and SMPC incorporated deployable structures. The SME of SMPC members were analysed numerically via ABAQUS software and validated with experimental results. It was revealed that SMPC SHS and CHS integrated large scale structures can be temporarily deformed to achieve a volume saving of 52 % and 70 %, respectively, for easy handling and transportation. Furthermore, the tension–tension fatigue properties of glass and basalt SMPCs were characterized, and the fatigue study provides significant knowledge to an untouched branch of SMPC performance. We believe that these findings will transform current construction strategies into a new approach, making modern day constructions smarter, quicker and cheaper.