Characterization of the shape memory effect in polymers

This report discusses about shape memory polymers, and the techniques used to characterize their shape memory effect. The materials that this report will focus on are VeroWhitePlus Polymerized Resin and Polyimide. Wax and Sponge experiments were also conducted to demonstrate certain shape memory mechanisms. During the characterization process, Differential Scanning Calorimetric tests were performed to determine the Glass Transition temperatures of the materials. Sample preparation procedures for the sponge and wax, VeroWhitePlus resin and Polyimide experiments are also explained. Surface scanning was done by means of the Taylor Hobson Talyscan 150 surface scanning machine. This enables the study of the shape memory effect of the specimen by means of scanning of a 3D profile after it has been indented, and after re-heating. Finally, tensile and compression tests were carried out on sponge and wax samples using the Instron 5569 Static Tester. This will show how wax affects the mechanical properties, and the shape memory effect in sponge, as well as the self-healing mechanism in wax. Tensile extension tests were also conducted on Polyimide samples to test the shape recovery effect after undergoing tensile elongation.Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering