Title: Manufacturing of Thermo-Formable Shape-Memory Polymer Composites for Space Application

Authors: Alice Proietti, Fabrizio Quadrini, Leandro Iorio, Giorgio Patrizii, Dounia Noqra, Denise Bellisario, Loredana Santo

DOI: 10.33599/nasampe/s.25.0122

Abstract: Shape memory polymer composites (SMPCs) combine the functional properties of shape memory materials with the strength and stiffness of composite laminates. Their potential use for space application is very attractive, mainly for self-deploying structures and smart hinges. In previous studies, SMPC laminates have been manufactured by compression molding of aeronautic carbon fiber reinforced (CFR) prepregs with SMP interlayers. SMP layers were deposited, in the shape of free uncured powders, between prepreg plies during lamination and co-molded in the hot press. After molding, they were shaped in a thermo-mechanical cycle to freeze a non-equilibrium shape. The initial equilibrium shape, typically flat, is recovered by heating in absence of constraints. As SMPCs are made by compression molding, it is very difficult to provide complex shapes. In the current study, hybrid SMPCs have been manufactured by placing thermoplastic films adjacent to deposited SMP areas during lamination. Subsequent co-molding produces a multi-functional laminate where some parts can be thermo-formed while others are frozen in a non-equilibrium shape. As a result, SMPC laminates with complex shapes have been manufactured without using shaped molds in compression molding. In conclusion, shape memory properties have been evaluated in repeated memory-recovery cycles.

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Conference: SAMPE 2025

Publication Date: 2025/05/19

SKU: TP25-0000000122

Pages: 15

Price: $30.00