Understanding the Relationship between Polymer Structure and Creep Deformation/Failure by Multiscale Analysis

2020 Fiscal Year Research-status Report

• Project/Area Number: 20K14617
• Research Institution: National Institute for Materials Science
• Principal Investigator: タンクス ジョナサンデビッド 国立研究開発法人物質・材料研究機構, 構造材料研究拠点, 研究員 (50850947)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: Polymers / Creep Properties / Multi-scale Analysis

Outline of Annual Research Achievements

Material fabrication and preliminary mechanical testing are in progress, including the selection of model materials and characterization methods. This research is also being conducted in conjunction with coupon-sized creep testing of thermoplastic composites, which provides a basic understanding of trends in the bulk properties. No papers or presentations were completed for FY 2020.

Current Status of Research Progress

3: Progress in research has been slightly delayed.

Reason

Optimal surface conditions for micro-/nano-mechanical testing were investigated. Model polymers polypropylene, polyamide-6, and polymethylmethacrylate were selected for their availability, formability, and difference in structure. A high-shear mixer was purchased along with other necessary items for fabricating test specimens. These materials, as well as the current characterization methods, are being conducted for the first time in our laboratory, so a learning curve is expected.

Strategy for Future Research Activity

After finalizing the characterization methodology, the nano-scale mechanical testing will be conducted in quick succession, while simultaneously developing the analytical framework to describe the structure-property relationship. FY 2021 is focused on the neat resin nano-scale creep properties, while FY 2022 will focus on the effects of hard reinforcing/filler materials on those properties.