Mechanical and thermal properties analysis of a hedgehog spine-inspired hollow woven shape memory polymer composite

Inspired by hedgehog spines, this study developed and investigated a new shape memory polymer composite (SMPC) that mimics the hollow-woven architecture of hedgehog spines. The hedgehog spine-inspired hollow woven SMPC exhibits high recovery force, superior energy absorption, and excellent thermal insulation performance while maintaining an ultra-low density. The material possesses a density of merely 0.12 g/cm³, a char yield of 73.56% at 800 ℃, retaining the capacity to withstand compressive loads up to 1000 times its own weight. The maximum specific recovery force reaches 72 N/g, and even after 10 cycles of thermomechanical compression at 100 °C, the shape recovery ratio remains at 99.4%, demonstrating reliable shape memory effects and mechanical performance. Across the investigated temperatures, the material shows nearly 100% energy dissipation and excellent impact resistance. Additionally, the SMPC demonstrates outstanding thermal insulation properties. Its robust recovery under compression, torsion, and bending suggests broad potential applications in aerospace, construction, and smart textiles.