The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are smart materials that can undergo reversible shape transformations in response to various external stimuli such as heat, light, or pH. Among them, polyester-based SMPs, including poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and polylactic acid (PLA), have received considerable attention in the biomedical field due to their excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. In this study, we investigated the structural alignment, mechanical properties, and characteristic changes of polyester-based shape memory polymers during shape deformation and recovery processes. During shape deformation and recovery processes, energy and stress are induced to SMPs network, leading to an increase in the polymer chain mobility. This enhanced chain mobility induces the reorganization of molecular chains and crystalline domains, thereby promoting physical property enhancements like annealing effects.