Shape memory polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites: Structures, properties, and applications

Abstract

This review presents an overview of the versatile shape memory polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites. Shape memory polyurethanes can recover their original shape from an intermediate shape when triggered by an external stimulus, such as heat, electrical voltage, light, pH change, or water absorption. Shape memory polymers have a successful history in commercial use. The applications for shape memory polymers are highly varied across numerous industries ranging from aircraft structure to biomedical implants. Three different groups of stimuli-responsive shape memory polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites, thermoresponsive, resistive heating actuated, and photon absorption actuated, will be discussed in this review. The applications of shape memory polyurethane/graphene nanocomposite as actuators are also discussed. This article will be pioneering in widespread impression on the state-of-the-art knowledge in shape memory polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites. It does not intend to be an extensive summary, but instead is a guide for scientists looking to apply these uniquely functional materials for advance high-performance applications. Future research may reveal shape memory applications for polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites in electronics, aerospace, and biomedical industries.