Work

Boron nitride-based shape memory polymers for spatially targeted ultrasound actuation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Focused ultrasound (FUS) presents unique advantages for noninvasive localized heating, crucial for controlled shape recovery in shape memory polymers (SMPs), especially in biomedical applications. To enhance FUS-driven actuation efficiency, we propose boron nitride (BN)-infused SMP composites (SMPCs) tailored for targeted biomedical interventions. Using tert-butyl acrylate (tBA) and di(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate as base materials, we integrated BN fillers at varying concentrations (1, 5, and 10 wt.%). A thorough characterization was carried out, including dynamic mechanical analysis, scanning electron microscopy, uniaxial tensile testing, and swelling study. These results show that increasing the BN content improves shape recovery efficiency significantly. Specifically, the 10 wt.% BN composites outperformed plain SMP in terms of shape recovery ratio when activated with FUS, and the highest shape recovery ratio can achieve 75%. However, higher BN content decreases crosslinking density and stiffness, as shown by a lower Young’s modulus and glass transition temperature. This study demonstrates the promise of BN-infused SMPCs for advanced applications in biomedical application, where noninvasive spatiotemporal actuation of SMPs is required.

Source: Smart Materials and Structures

DOI: 10.1088/1361-665x/adeb1c

Authors: Jiaxin Xi, David L Safranski, Reza Mirzaeifar, Shima Shahab

Institutions: Virginia Tech, Georgia Institute of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Materials and Mechanics

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,325

Funder: Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation