Tailoring Dynamic Mechano-Responsive Polymer Systems for Energy Dissipation and Damage Resistance
Abstract
Over the course of this grant, our group worked on ionomer (ethylene-co-methacrylic acid or EMAA) and metal ion (primarily Cu2+ and Ag+) containing polyelectrolyte assemblies. We are interested in how the strength of complexation between polymers and crosslink density can influence properties, including mechanical properties. Using electrostatic directed self-assembly, or the layer-by-layer technique, allows for the modulation of secondary interactions within these thin films and coatings. This in term can result in the variation of a range of mechanical properties, including toughness, modulus, hardness, and the ability to self-heal. We have found that ionomer assemblies can be made into free-standing thin films, and that the toughness of these materials is dependent on both the assembly conditions and post-assembly annealing. Additionally, we have shown that for copper ion containing films, the ions act as crosslinking agents increasing hardness and modulus. On the other hand, incorporation of Ag ions increases the ability of these thin films to self-heal.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 23, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA594871
Entities
People
- Hsiu-chin Huang
- Nicole Zacharia
- Ryan Davis
- Xiayun Huang
Organizations
- Texas Engineering Experiment Station