Abstract: In one aspect, the disclosure relates to two-way shape memory organogels including at least a crosslinked polymer and an organic free phase. In a further aspect, the un-crosslinked polymer or polymer precursor such as, for example, an oligomer, can be crosslinked by a photoinitiator through free-radical polymerization. In one aspect, the polymer can be cis-poly(1,4-butadiene), while the organic free phase can be a plasticizer such as, for example, bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate. The two-way shape memory organogels have excellent stability in high vacuum environments and at high temperatures, desirable mechanical properties, and reliable actuation reversibility. Also disclosed are methods of making the organogels and sensors and other devices that include the organogels.

Abstract: In one aspect, the disclosure relates to two-way shape memory organogels including at least a crosslinked polymer and an organic free phase. In a further aspect, the un-crosslinked polymer or polymer precursor such as, for example, an oligomer, can be crosslinked by a photoinitiator through free-radical polymerization. In one aspect, the polymer can be cis-poly(1,4-butadiene), while the organic free phase can be a plasticizer such as, for example, bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate. The two-way shape memory organogels have excellent stability in high vacuum environments and at high temperatures, desirable mechanical properties, and reliable actuation reversibility. Also disclosed are methods of making the organogels and sensors and other devices that include the organogels.

Abstract: Graphene oxide aerogel beads (GOABs) are formed that have a core/shell structure where a smooth shell covers a multi-layer core. The smooth shell and the layers of the multilayer core comprise graphene oxide or reduced graphene oxide. The GOABs can include a phase-change material encapsulated within the multi-layer core. The GOABs can be combined or decorated with Fe3O4 nanoparticles or MoS2 microflakes for various applications. The GOABs are formed from aqueous slurries of graphene oxide that is extruded as drops into an aqueous solution of a coagulant where GOABs are formed. The GOABs are washed and freeze dried, after which, the GOABs can be reduced as desired by chemical or thermal means. Impregnation can be carried out with the phase-change material.

Abstract: Provided herein are high-temperature shape memory photopolymers (HTSMP) and methods of making. The HTSMP has flame retardance and recovery stress of greater than 30 MPa. The HTSMP is formed from a polyacrylate and about 5 wt % to 15 wt % of a phosphorus containing photo-initiator (TPO), wherein the polyacrylate is polymerized by UV exposure of an acrylate monomer and the TPO.

Abstract: In one aspect, the disclosure relates to free-standing artificial muscles having a polymeric core encased by an elastic spring. The polymeric core can be any two-way shape memory polymer including, but not limited to, a semicrystalline polymer (polybutadiene polymer, a polycaprolactone polymer, a poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), a rubber, an ionomer, an elastomer, or a gel. In some aspects, the shape memory polymers are crosslinked. In an alternative aspect, the polymeric core is a twisted and coiled polymeric fiber. In other aspects, the polymeric core is reprocessable, remoldable, and/or recyclable. In one aspect, the elastic spring is metallic, ceramic, plastic, or any combination thereof. The stiffnesses or spring rate of the elastic spring and polymeric core, the two-way shape memory effect of the polymeric core, and their geometrical dimensions can be optimized to maximize the actuation strain based on theoretical principles described herein.

Abstract: Graphene oxide aerogel beads (GOABs) are formed that have a core/shell structure where a smooth shell covers a multi-layer core. The smooth shell and the layers of the multilayer core comprise graphene oxide or reduced graphene oxide. The GOABs can include a phase-change material encapsulated within the multi-layer core. The GOABs can be combined or decorated with Fe3O4 nanoparticles or MoS2 microflakes for various applications. The GOABs are formed from aqueous slurries of graphene oxide that is extruded as drops into an aqueous solution of a coagulant where GOABs are formed. The GOABs are washed and freeze dried, after which, the GOABs can be reduced as desired by chemical or thermal means. Impregnation can be carried out with the phase-change material.