A reconfigurable, self-healing and near infrared light responsive thermoset shape memory polymer

Abstract: Shape memory polymers and self-healing polymers are two types of smart materials, which have great application potential in various fields. In this study, a composite with light-induced shape memory effect, solid-state plasticity and self-healing performance was prepared by incorporating graphene oxide (GO) into a thermoset polyurethane. Based on the great photothermal effect of GO, this composite exhibited excellent light-induced shape memory properties with shape recovery ratio over 95% under irradiation of 1.4 W cm ² near infrared (NIR) light. Moreover, the composite also possessed light-induced plasticity and light-induced self-healing capability under irradiation of 2.5 W cm ² NIR light due to the photothermal conversion triggered carbamate exchange reaction in polymer networks. It can be repeatedly reconfigured to new permanent shapes through NIR light irradiating without sacrificing its shape memory properties and remotely controllable healing with fully recovery in structure accompanied by high mechanical properties up to 85% of original value. Based on these special properties, the practicability of this composite as light control actuators, self-healing coatings and optical welding materials was further investigated and the experimental data demonstrated that the composite was qualified for all the aforementioned applications.