Quantitative separation of the influence of copper (II) chloride mass migration on the chemo-responsive shape memory effect in polyurethane shape memory polymer

Chemo-responsive shape memory effect in polyurethane shape memory polymer (SMP) composite triggered by mass migration of copper (II) chloride (CuCl₂) has been experimentally demonstrated. In this study, we present a comprehensive study on quantitative separation of the effect of CuCl₂ particle mass migration on the chemo-responsive shape recovery behavior of polyurethane SMP composites with different concentrations of CuCl₂ particles. It is found that the SMP is featured with a critical release rate of the mechanical energy storage associated with the shape recovery behavior due to mass migration of the CuCl₂ particle. A sequence of molecular interactions among CuCl₂ particles, polyurethane macromolecules and water molecules, i.e., assembly of the CuCl₂ particle with polyurethane macromolecules, and then disassembly and dissolution of the CuCl₂ particle in water, results in an acceleration of water-induced shape recovery of polyurethane SMP. This study focuses on the quantitative separation of the influence of mass migration on the chemo-responsive shape recovery behavior of polyurethane SMP in response to water. It is expected to promote and achieve the actuation of chemo-responsive SMPs in a fully controllable manner.