Development of Morphing Structures for Aircraft Using Shape Memory Polymers
Abstract
A research grade Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA) was acquired in 2007 through a successful Department of Defense grant under the DURIP program. This equipment has played a key role in the evaluation of candidate polymeric materials for developing reconfigurable, or morphing), aerospace structures. In particular, shape memory polymers (SMP) in filled and unfilled form have been investigated with particular emphasis on the recovery time and force as the materials undergo transformation. Response time and recovery force are performance characteristics essential to the design of SMP based actuators and reconfigurable structures, and new testing protocols have been developed to quantity these merits of performance. While favorable response times have been observed, the low recovery force measured in experiments, and the bulky size of the triggering mechanism have presented themselves as challenges in the development of efficient and lightweight structures. However, the provision of the equipment is enabling more research into the modification of the polymer's properties to overcome these shortcomings. Ongoing approaches include alternation of the SMP's chemistry and the use of different fillers such as carbon black, aniline, and micron sized iron and copper particles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 31, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA487477
Entities
People
- Fazeel J. Khan
Organizations
- University of Miami