Dual-Spun Shape Memory Elastomeric Composites

Abstract

Thermally responsive shape memory polymers (SMPs) are typically relatively stiff due to the need to vitrify the polymer chains to fix a temporary shape. A need exists for elastomeric SMPs with mechanical properties that more closely match those of human tissue. In this communication, we present a novel approach to fabricate a fully thermoplastic elastomeric SMP. Two polymers are simultaneously electrospun, or dual-spun, forming a composite fiber mat with a controllable composition. The two polymers were chosen such that one assists in "shape fixing" and the other in "shape recovery". We envision that the versatility and simplicity of this fabrication approach will allow for large scale production of shape memory elastomeric composites (SMECs) for a wide range of applications.