Abstract: Provided are methods of preparing an electrically activated shape memory polymer composite capable of thermal shape reformation using electric power to heat the composite through its matrix glass transition temperature. The methods may include providing a polymer matrix component comprising a diglycidyl ether resin and at least one curing agent, adding into the polymer matrix component at least one nano-filler component, sonication and mixing the polymer matrix component and the nano-filler component to form a mixture, curing the mixture under curing conditions, and laminating the cured mixture with at least one elastic laminated layer.

Abstract: Provided is an electrically activated shape memory polymer composite capable of thermal shape reformation using electric power to heat the composite through its matrix glass transition temperature. The composite includes an adaptable polymer matrix component using a diglycidyl ether resin, at least one substantially well-dispersed conductive or magnetic nano-filler component, and at least one elastic, laminated layer. Also provided are methods of preparing the composite and methods of activating the composite. A shape reformation of the composite is triggered by applying an electric field at DC and/or at a frequency above about 1 ?Hz for a sufficient time.