A survey of adaptive materials and structures research in China

The growing application of shape memory polymer (SMP), shape memory alloy (SMA), electro-active polymer (EAP), macro-fibre composite (MFC) and piezoelectric (PZT) materials for aerospace has highlighted the need for development of these materials. This paper provides a detailed overview of developments in these smart materials relating to their current and future applications in adaptive structures and active control. Recent advances in SMA, SMP, EAP and MFC systems are discussed and their composites filled with functional fillers such as conductive nanoparticles, short carbon fiber and ferroelectric ceramics are introduced. Materials properties, transducer mechanisms and end applications are described and the potential for integration of the materials with ancillary systems components is viewed as an essential consideration. The paper concludes with a short discussion of multi-functional smart polymers and composites that are extending the range of fabrication techniques available to designers and production engineers.