Abstract
Classical shape‐memory polymers are heat‐shrinkable materials, which are of technological
significance as packaging material or assembly materials in electronics. Their one‐way recovery effect
allows a programmed material to recover a permanent shape upon exposure to heat. Various stimuli
besides temperature changes have been realized in polymer‐based materials for inducing SME and
several consecutive shape‐changes could be implemented in one material resulting in multi‐shape
materials. Recently, shape‐memory polymer actuators were introduced allowing reversible shapechanges
controlled by temperature or magnetic fields. The general principles for programming
polymers to exhibit shape recovery or actuation behavior will be explained and potential applications
are outlined including healthcare technologies and rebotics.
