Modeling and Simulation of Light Activated Shape Memory Polymers

This paper focuses on developing a model for light activated shape memory polymers (LASMP’s) undergoing deformation using the framework based on multiple natural configurations and simulating results for boundary value problems. LASMP’s are novel polymeric materials that are different in many ways from the first generation thermally controlled Shape Memory Polymers (SMP’s). Instead of using phase change to produce a mechanism, LASMP’s have photosensitive molecules grafted on their polymer chains. These photosensitive molecules, when exposed to light at certain wavelengths, form covalent bonds that act as crosslinks to give this class of SMP’s their temporary shape. By virtue of their different mechanism, LASMP’s provide a wide array of advantages such as remote activation and selective exposure, thus opening new doors as a potential for vast applications in the biomedical and aerospace industries [1].