Hydrophobic shape memory poly(oxazolidone-triazine) cyclomatrix networks with high transition temperatures

Abstract

Shape memory cyclomatrix network polymers comprising oxazolidone and triazine groups linked by a shape memory segment of polycaprolactone are synthesised by co-reacting a cyanate ester with an epoxy monomer in the presence of a polycaprolactone diol (PCLD). These systems possess transition temperatures (T_trans) between 127 and 180 °C and are tunable by the PCLD concentration. The cross-linked polymers exhibit 100% shape fixity and near complete shape recovery in a short span of time. The high T_trans and low propensity for moisture absorption provide a stable fixed shape. Water repellency is reflected in the contact angles of 82–86°, which are higher than that for typical epoxy systems.