Tuning the Processability of Thermal Stimuli-Responsive Lightly Crosslinked Liquid Crystalline Epoxy Networks

Functional liquid crystalline epoxy networks (LCEN) capable of shape memory and self-healing were fabricated according to a variety of novel techniques. These techniques include rheological modification through non-reactive additives, introduction of catalysts to promote dynamic bonding, and curing agent selection to control formation of liquid crystalline domains. The aim of this work is to explore novel, commercially viable methods of fabricating and recycling using techniques to tune and preserve functional properties such as shape memory and self-healing. In this way, functional, smart devices can be produced with LCEN, reducing reliance on critical materials in such devices. Small-angle and wide-angle x-ray scattering, rheometry, and calorimetry were used to determine the functional properties and relate them to the formation of liquid crystalline phases within the epoxy as well as the ability to form and maintain those phases after different processing and reprocessing techniques. The collected works presented demonstrate the viability of tunable LCEN for myriad functional applications.