Influence of subsequent thermomechanical cycles on shape memory behavior of 4D printed PEKK

The current study identifies and investigates the shape memory response of poly ether ketone ketone (PEKK) for the first time. 4D printed PEKK are subjected to annealing, crystalline behavior, and shape memory studies under susquent thermomechanical cycles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed seamless bonding between the printed layers, confirming the suitability of the chosen printing parameters. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results showed higher Tg (161.20 °C) and Tm (339.03 °C). Shape fixity ratio (Rf) is observed to be lower in the higher cycles (∼10% lower in cycle 8 compared to cycle 1), while the shape recovery ratio (Rr) is noted to be decreasing in each cycle ( 20% decreased in cycle 8 compared to cycle 1) due to reduction in storage modulus. The 4D printed PEKK exhibited excellent shape memory properties as compared to PEEK, making them potential materials in automotive and aerospace applications.