Fracture Testing of a Self-Healing Polymer Composite*
نویسندگان
چکیده
Inspired by biological systems in which damage triggers an autonomic healing response, we have developed a polymer composite material that can heal itself when cracked. This paper summarizes the self-healing concept for polymeric composite materials and investigates fracture mechanics issues consequential to the development and optimization of this new class of materials. The self-healing material under investigation is an epoxy matrix composite, which incorporates a microencapsulated healing agent that is released upon crack intrusion. Polymerization of the healing agent is triggered by contact with an embedded catalyst. The effects of size and concentration of catalyst and microcapsules on fracture toughness and healing efficiency are investigated. In all cases the addition of microcapsules significantly toughens the neat epoxy. Once healed, the self-healing polymer recovers as much as 90% of its virgin fracture toughness. ______________________ * Submitted for publication in Experimental Mechanics: An International Journal (2001)
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