Article contents
Natural eggshell membranes exhibiting programmable shape recovery characteristics
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 05 June 2018
Abstract
In this study, a novel shape memory polymer (SMP), eggshell membrane (ESM), with macroscopic mesh structures and microscopic crosslinked protein fibers, has shown water-stimulated shape recovery characteristics. Our results show that the collagen triple-helical molecular chains and disulfide-rich motifs in the ESM function as net-points retaining essential structures during deformation, while hydrogen bonds play a key role as switch units for shape recovery through water stimulation. We also demonstrate that programmable shape recovery characteristics of ESM can be obtained by modulating the number of net-points. This study may inspire the design of new programmable SMPs.
- Type
- Research Letters
- Information
- Copyright
- Copyright © Materials Research Society 2018
References
- 3
- Cited by