Two-Way Semicrystalline Shape Memory Elastomers: Development and Current Research Trends

Two-way shape memory polymers (SMPs) have gained significant attention in the recent past owing to their ability to spontaneously and reversibly switch between two different shapes when heated and cooled, thereby allowing them to reversibly actuate autonomously. Semicrystalline elastomers are one of the best classes to design two-way SMPs owing to the crystallization-induced elongation and the melting-induced contraction that can result in reversible strain in the elastomeric network and can be applied to fabricate artificial muscles and actuators. This review revisits the overview of the SMPs and the inspiration behind developing two-way shape memory semicrystalline elastomers and their mechanistic pathway. Finally, the latest developments in the realm of the elastomeric networks and how these smart materials are gaining spotlight along with the future purview and potential outlook are circumscribed.