Title: New technologies for active disassembly: using the shape memory effect in engineering polymers

Authors: Habib Hussein, David Harrison

Addresses: School of Engineering and Design, Brunel University, UK. ' School of Engineering and Design, Brunel University, UK

Abstract: This paper describes an investigation into the shape memory effects in engineering polymers, and their possible use in active fasteners. Characterisation of the shape memory effects in engineering polymers by tensile and bending shape recovery tests is described. A study of the long-term reliability of the shape memory effect in selected engineering polymers is reported. Design, prototyping and characterisation of active fastener solutions using shape memory effect in engineering polymers are described.

Keywords: active disassembly; ADSM; shape memory effect; shape memory polymers; shape memory testing; engineering polymers; active fasteners; tensile testing; bending shape recovery; product design; product development.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPD.2008.020403

International Journal of Product Development, 2008 Vol.6 No.3/4, pp.431 - 449

Published online: 21 Sep 2008 *

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