 Veriflex®
Shape Memory Polymer
What Are
Shape Memory Polymers?
First introduced in Japan and then
the United States 1984, shape memory polymers are polymers
whose qualities have been altered to give them dynamic shape
"memory" properties. Using thermal stimuli, shape
memory polymers can exhibit a radical change from a rigid
polymer to a very elastic state, then back to a rigid state
again. In its elastic state, it will recover its “memory”
shape if left unrestrained. However, while pliable it can
be stretched, folded or otherwise conformed to other shapes,
tolerating up to 200% elongation.
While manipulated, the shape memory
polymer can be cooled and therefore returned to a rigid state,
maintaining its manipulated shape indefinitely. This manipulation
process can be repeated many times without degradation, and
CRG can tailor most polymers with shape memory properties.
What is Veriflex?
The registered trademark for CRG's family of
shape memory polymer resin systems, Veriflex currently functions
on thermal activation customizable from –30 °C to
260 °C (–20 °F to 500 °F). Extremely high
temperatures and cryogenic ranges may be possible. CRG is
also investigating possible future systems which may respond
to stimuli such as light, electric field, or magnetic field.
Some possible applications include custom
reusable mandrels, reusable molds, replica optics,
and deployment mechanisms for outer space.
Veriflex is one of the products for sale through
CRG
Industries, a spin-off company that manufactures and
sells high-tech materials.
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