Using Theory and Simulation to Design Self-Healing Surfaces

Abstract

Our aim in the previous studies was to design polymeric composites and blends that would heal defects that were present within the material. We considered three distinct approaches, which involved: (1) Harnessing nanoparticles to heal cracks in layered composites; (2) Using microcapules to deliver nanoparticles to damaged coatings; (3) Exploiting photo-chemical reactions to create defect-free hierarchical structures. As we note below, our findings generated considerable interest in the scientific community. We are also initiating new studies on controlling crack propagation in brittle materials. Herein, we provide a brief description of our research in each of these areas.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 16, 2007
Accession Number
ADA482337

Entities

People

  • Anna C. Balazs

Organizations

  • University of Pittsburgh

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Autonomy
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Block Copolymers
  • Chemical Reactions
  • Coatings
  • Composite Materials
  • Computer Simulations
  • Crack Propagation
  • Cracks
  • Drug Abuse
  • Films
  • Materials
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Nanoparticles
  • Particles
  • Polymeric Films
  • Polymers
  • Simulations
  • Substrates

Readers

  • Materials Science (Mechanical Engineering).
  • Nanocomposite Materials Science
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology