Shape memory alloy hybrid basalt woven/ PDMS composite cantilever beam: Manufacturing, actuation mechanism and recovery performance

Abstract In this paper, a shape memory alloy composite (SMAHC) with a stiff‐flexible structure was prepared. The quantity of shape memory alloy (SMA), the pre‐strain of the SMA, and the modulus of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) were used as three variables to study their effects on the stiffness and deformation recovery performance of the SMAHC. An equivalent recovery force model was established to describe the recovery ability of the SMAHC. Unlike most current methods that characterize the deformation recovery performance of SMAHC based on its deformation recovery rate, this model characterizes the performance by calculating the driving force provided by the SMAHC under thermal stimulation. The results showed that the stiffness of the SMAHC was positively correlated with the volume fraction of SMA and negatively correlated with the proportion of PDMS. Increasing the amount of SMA can improve the recovery performance of the SMAHC. The SMAHC with SMA pre‐strain in the martensitic reorientation zone exhibited the lowest stiffness; however, it demonstrated the best recovery performance, providing an equivalent recovery force of up to twice its dead weight. The results of this study may serve as a valuable reference for the design and application of end‐loaded SMAHC structures. Highlights A novel textile composite with stiff‐flexible structure for deformation control. The theoretical model of structural recovery performance is established. The deflection recovery range is up to 60%. The structure is capable of lifting loads twice its own weight.