Passive smart self-repair in polymer matrix composite materials

Carolyn M. Dry; Nancy R. Sottos

doi:10.1117/12.148501

23 July 1993 Passive smart self-repair in polymer matrix composite materials

Carolyn M. Dry, Nancy R. Sottos

Proceedings Volume 1916, Smart Structures and Materials 1993: Smart Materials; (1993) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.148501
Event: 1993 North American Conference on Smart Structures and Materials, 1993, Albuquerque, NM, United States

Abstract

An investigation was made into the feasibility of developing a smart polymer matrix composite which has the ability to self-repair internal microcracks due to thermo-mechanical loading. The investigation focuses on the controlled cracking of hollow repair fibers dispersed in a composite and the subsequent timed release of chemicals which results in the sealing of matrix microcracks and the rebonding of damaged interfaces. In this preliminary work, the mechanisms of chemical release from a single repair fiber embedded in a polymer matrix were investigated using experimental analyses. It was found that controlled cracking of the repair fiber and subsequent release of the repair chemicals could be achieved by applying a polymer coating to the surface of the repair fibers. Release of chemicals into cracks was observed using optical microscopy and photoelasticity. Fiber pull-out and impact tests were performed to examine the ability to rebond fibers and fill cracks, respectively.

Citation Download Citation

Carolyn M. Dry and Nancy R. Sottos "Passive smart self-repair in polymer matrix composite materials", Proc. SPIE 1916, Smart Structures and Materials 1993: Smart Materials, (23 July 1993); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.148501

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