Dual manipulation of light and shape based on nanoparticle-induced shape memory composites

In nature, many mysterious creatures are capable of defense and courtship via mimicry or color change. However, developing smart materials with the integration of conformation and color/transparency changes is an intriguing but challenging task. Herein, we report a versatile membrane with integrated visible transparency and shape manipulation. This membrane consists of thermo-irritated shape memory polymers and doped nonclose-packing nanoparticles (NPs). A reversible transparency change with shape deformation (from 63.7% to 2.1%) is exhibited due to the light scattering from internal cavitation between the NPs and polymers. Meanwhile, the shape of the film can be programmed and reversibly actuated via thermal-control bidirectional actuation from the semi-crystalline structure of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl)acetate (EVA). The complex film also shows excellent stability of light and shape modulation after the first cycle. The programmable reconfiguration and transparency-changing of this smart film highlight its great potential in temperature recording, light/thermal management, anti-counterfeiting and camouflage.