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

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20K14617
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 18010:Mechanics of materials and materials-related
• Research Institution: National Institute for Materials Science
• Principal Investigator: Tanks Jonathon David 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 / Nanocomposites / Time-dependent Mechanics / In-situ Polymerization

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In this study, the relationship between polymer structure and its time-dependent mechanical properties were investigated. Specifically, modification of a crosslinked epoxy network with an in-situ chain extension approach resulted in exceptional fracture toughness while maintaining high stiffness and strength. Dynamic viscoelastic analysis revealed that the alicyclic chain extender decreased the beta-relaxation temperature and increased the corresponding activation energy. These results were published in the journal Materials Letters. Furthermore, in order to control the structure of polymeric nanocomposites, a novel in-situ polymerization strategy was developed using layered silicates that were functionalized with photo-reactive molecules. Acrylate/silicate nanocomposites were fabricated with excellent exfoliation, which improves their mechanical properties. These results were published in the Bulletin of the Chemical Society of Japan.

Free Research Field

高分子系複合材料

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

This research proposes a method for modifying crosslinked polymer networks to improve toughness and other properties, as well as a method for improving the structure of nanocomposites. This will contribute to long-lasting high-performance structures such as airplanes and cars.