Development of shape memory polymer-based deployable solar reflector by 4-D printing technology

Abstract

4-D printing refers to the ability for a 3-D printed material to change its shape and properties once activated by external variants such as heat or moisture. The 3D model shape is initially printed by a 3D printer where printing of any free form shape is possible and for additive manufacturing purposes, using material that possesses the shape memory effect. The final prototype, which is a satellite reflector, is to be printed and tested. In this project, the material, Fullcure 720 is tested throughout the whole project. Test specimens are printed in order to investigate different parameters such as the tensile stress, maximum recoverable tensile strain and response rate of the material. Experiments on the specimens are also conducted to determine the properties of the material and shape memory effects. After testing, the desired properties are then incorporated to the design of the reflector. Several designs are considered before the final prototype is chosen and printed. Two prototypes, one with black coating, and one without any coating, are tested to determine its recovery rate.