Epoxy-based shape memory composite for space applications

Shape memory polymers are smart materials with an ability to recover their permanent shape from a temporary shape upon exposure to various external stimuli. In space applications, shape memory polymers can find their use as deployable devices due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and large deformability. The effect of vacuum environment in space on the deployment of shape memory polymers is an extremely important issue which is yet to be studied. As the energy budget in spacecraft is limited, means to increase the energetic efficiency of deployable devices need to be developed.