The durability of a conducting shape memory polyurethane actuator

Abstract

This paper discusses the actuation durability of a conducting shape memory polyurethane (CSMPU) actuator. Introduced in 2004, the CSMPU actuator was manufactured by an in situ polymerization method for shape memory polyurethane with multi-walled carbon nanotubes. In order to apply the CSMPU to smart actuators and determine detailed design concepts, the durability data should be measured. Hence, the experiments in this research were designed to obtain durability data, and the maximum number of actuation cycles versus the initial elongation ratio and the actuation temperature were measured for the purpose of assessing durability. The broken surfaces of the specimens were investigated.