Can shape memory polymer hybrids be used for smart automotive body panels?

B.J. Middleton, B.M. Wood, V. Goodship, G.F. Smith, R.J. Dashwood

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference proceedingpeer-review

Abstract

This work investigates the potential of producing lightweight smart automotive panels by combining sheet metal with shape memory polymers (SMPs). An aluminium-SMP hybrid material was manufactured by injection molding and shape recovery tests show that the hybrid samples recovered on average 97% of their original shape when subjected to 5%, 10% and 15% flexural strain. There is however a conflict between the temperature profiles required for the "shape memory creation process" and that of an automotive collision. Further work is required to optimize the shape memory effect in the polymer component to make a suitable automotive product.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEUROTECH 2013
PublisherSociety of Plastics Engineers
Pages295-299
Number of pages5
ISBN (Print)978-163266532-4
Publication statusPublished - 2013

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