Development of Graphene Nanoplatelets Reinforced Shape Memory Polyurethane and Their DMA Studies

Abstract

Shape memory nanocomposites have been synthesized using ether type shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). A twin screw co-rotating microcompounder with a back flow channel has been employed to ensure proper dispersion of GNPs in the polymer matrix. Four compositions of GNPs in SMPU have been prepared. Morphology of fractured nanocomposites reveals uniform dispersion of graphene in SMPU. The dynamic-thermo-mechanical properties of nanocomposites at 0.1 and 10 Hz have been studied. Addition of 1 phr GNPs increases storage modulus of SMPU from 2.8 to 3.73 GPa and the value of tan δ peak has been decreased from 0.81 to 0.53. The GNPs in SMPU matrix influence shape recovery which improves with the addition of GNPs with in experimental range.