Clevertex - Grado Zero Espace Srl

Polymers
Study is now on the way to apply FRP (fibre reinforced plastics) in which shape memory polymers are
used as matrix resin to the inflatable structure in space. This program, initiated by Mitsubishi Heavy
Industries, aims at compact folding of the FRP moulded to final shape to transport to the space before
expanding it to the original shape in space [192].
Fig. 109 Inflatable space material [192]
C.R.Bard (U.S.) and mnemoScience GmbH (Germany) are co-operating in the field of shape memory
polymers for surgical use, for example yarn based sutures (polyurethane) that change form in the
body.
Scientists working at MnemoScience GmbH developed a ´shape-shifting´ plastic that can be fashioned
into novel medical devices such as sutures that allow an optimized tightening of the knot. The plastic
is composed of two components with different thermal characteristics, oligo(ε-caprolactone)diol and
crystallisable oligo(ρ-dioxane)diol. The multiblockcopolymer features two blockbuilding segments, a
hard and a switching segment, which are linked together in linear chains. The plastic can be stretched
or strunched into temporary forms up to four times larger or smaller than its permanent shape. The
plastic is automatically transformed into this permanent shape when exposed to a suitable external
stimulus, such as increase in temperature. As the material is biodegradable, it can dissolve after the
wound is healed and is harmlessly absorbed by the body.
Additionammy, shape memory polymers can enable a slow release of drugs to be applied to the stents
surface in order to prevent cell build up in situ.
2.5.4.2 Patents published
Kimberly-Clark uses humidity sensitive shape memory materials to develop hygiene products that
become more compact and hence more effective when moisture is sensed, improving the comfort
level. The shape memory materials can be in the form of films, fibres, filaments, strands, non-wovens,
and pre-moulded elements (US 6 627 673).
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