Novel 4D-printing pellets with infrared-light responsive shape memory effect

Abstract

4D-printing technology is attractive to researchers since it combines 3D printing with smart materials to produce 3D structures with various shapes and change shapes under specific external stimuli. Herein, novel shape memory polymer (SMP) pallets with infrared-light responsive shape memory effect were developed for 4D printing applications. The structures, properties, and infrared-light responsive shape memory performances of the resulting (SMP) pallets were thoroughly investigated. The results showed PDA/SMP palletsprepared by direct loading of PDA particles on SMP pallets displayed less influence on the basic properties of SMP while fluidity was enhanced. The obtained PDA/SMP pallets employed as feed materials for particle 3D printers revealed good thermal-induced shape memory performance and photo-responsive shape memory performance in printed 3D structures. Under infrared-light irradiation, the curled shape recovered to straight splines within 60 seconds due to the strong absorption and good photo-thermal conversion of the loaded PDA nanoparticles under infrared light. Overall, the as-prepared PDA/SMP pallets look promising for use in biomedical fields and smart devices, as well as remote control deformation with 4D printing technology.