The research status and challenges of shape memory polymer-based flexible electronics

Abstract

Shape memory polymer-based flexible electronic devices (SMPFEDs) that incorporate novel features and functions of shape memory polymers (SMPs) and their composites (SMPCs) represent an area of rapid development in flexible electronics. The shape memory effect and variable modulus of SMPs could endow more functions to flexible electronic devices and thus enable some novel applications. This paper summarizes the state-of-the-art of SMPFEDs. Some examples of SMPFEDs, like shape memory polymer light-emitting diodes, shape memory polymer thin film transistors and optical devices, are introduced. Printing electronic technology and 4D printing are discussed as potential fabrication technologies for SMPFEDs. Furthermore, the actuation methods for SMPFEDs, including chemo-, electro-, magnetic-, and light-actuation methods, are detailed. Finally, the technical challenges and development directions of SMPFEDs are proposed.