Conductive shape memory nanocomposites for high speed electrical actuation

Abstract

A new shape memory nanocomposite that exhibits rapid electrical actuation capabilities is fabricated by incorporating continuous, non-woven carbon nanofibers (CNFs) into an epoxy based SMP matrix. The fiber morphology and nanometre size provide a percolating conductive network with a large interfacial area. This not only gives high electrical conductivity but also simultaneously enhances heat transfer and recovery stress.