Reduced graphene oxide enhances the high-temperature toughness and shape memory properties of flexible epoxy resins and imparts photothermal dual response.

Epoxy resins (EPs) are known for their remarkable shape memory capabilities, attributed to their robust covalent cross-linked networks. The research we conducted elaborates on a flexible epoxy composite exhibiting both shape memory and dual photothermal response characteristics. Creation of the composite involved a combination of soft-hard strengthening methods, incorporating polyetheramine (T3000) with pliable chain parts and rigid reduced graphene oxide (rGO) into the epoxy. In terms of tensile properties, a joint strengthening impact is observed between the rigidity of rGO and the pliable agent T3000. At elevated temperatures (T g + 10 °C), the strengthening between rGO and chain segments amplifies the material's final distortion. Regarding thermomechanical properties, T3000 enhances both the crosslink density and the storage modulus, with the T g value being modifiable by altering the T3000 content. Regarding the properties of shape memory, a concentration of 0.25 wt% rGO enhances the film's R f , augments the T3000 content to adjust the system for optimal crosslink density, resulting in composites with an R f exceeding 99% and an R r of 100%. rGO improves the network's thermal conductivity, significantly reduces the duration of thermal activation, and allows for distant alteration of shape memory through a reaction in the NIR. The tailored features, coupled with its exceptional performance, render it apt for real-world uses in fields like smart molding. [Display omitted] • rGO enhances the ultimate deformation of SMEPs at high temperatures (T g + 10 °C). • The T3000 can adjust the system's toughness, E' g , T g , and cross-linking density. • rGO/epoxy composites have R f of over 99% and R r of 100%. • rGO enhances the system's recovery stress. • Composites exhibit shape memory responsive to heat and near-infrared light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]