4D printing of dual-responsive high-performance shape memory polymer inspired by sunflowers

A dual-responsive shape memory polymer, inspired by the heliotropic behavior of sunflowers, holds promise for innovative research, amalgamating the distinctive traits of shape memory polymers with nature's sunflower dynamics. In this investigation, we crafted a heat and light dual-responsive shape memory polymer through liquid crystal display 3D printing technology, employing a meticulously formulated resin composition. The resin comprised epoxy acrylate as an oligomer, hydroxyethyl methacrylate as a monomer, and phenylic(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide as a photo initiator. To confer light responsiveness, graphene oxide particles were integrated into the polymer matrix, designed to selectively absorb light wavelengths and instigate the shape memory effect upon light exposure. The resultant shape memory polymer showcased exceptional mechanical robustness and manifested superior responsiveness to temperature and light stimuli. This light-responsive shape memory polymer, drawing inspiration from sunflowers, presents numerous potential applications, such as transfer printing, as demonstrated.