Patent ID: 8795464
Filing Date: 2014-08-05
Classification: B29C,B29K,C08G,C08J,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method comprising: providing a crosslinked first shape memory polymerin a first permanent shape, the crosslinked first shape memory polymer having a plurality of surface free chains each having one end coupled to the surface of the first shape memory polymer backbone and one free end, said first shape memory polymer transformable between a first permanent shape and a first temporary shape; providing a crosslinked second shape memory polymer in a second permanent shape, the crosslinked second shape memory polymer having a plurality of surface free chains each having one end coupled to the surface of the second shape memory polymer backbone and one free end, said second polymer transformable between a second permanent shape and a second temporary shape; and creating a reversible welding adhesive bond between said first polymer and said second polymer, wherein said creating of said adhesive bond transforms said first polymer to said first temporary shape and transforms said second polymer to said second temporary shape, and wherein at least one said surface free chain of said first shape memory polymer in said first temporary shape is interdiffused with at least one said surface free chain of said second shape memory polymer in said second temporary shape by said creation of said adhesive bond and wherein one of said first polymer or said second polymer comprises sulfonated crosslinked polystyrene.