Abstract
In addition to fracture of polymers in the bulk or virgin state, a number of important polymer interface issues must be addressed by researchers of bio-based products. These involve welding of thermoplastics, lamination of composites, coalescence of latex particles in coatings and elastomers, blends of incompatible polymers, reinforcement of incompatible interfaces with compatibilizers, polymer solid interface (such as fiber-reinforced composites), and adhesion of polymers to substrates. These issues are critical for the successful advance of new bio-based plastics, adhesives, and resins and are discussed in this chapter. Computer simulations are used to make predictions for thermosets derived from plant oils and explore the utility of the fundamental theories. This chapter presents the basic theory of strength of polymers and interfaces based on the vector percolation model, with general examples for linear and cross-linked polymers, such as thermoplastics, elastomers, and cross-linked materials. The percolation theory is applied successfully to fracture of thermosets, carbon nanotubes, and fracture of polymer–solid interfaces.
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