Abstract
Self-healing coatings as thin films have been widely exploited in the last decade due to the conformational ability to adhere practically at any surface, bringing multiple regenerations in damaged areas. Poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) are the most used polyelectrolytes to grow self-healing layer-by-layer films; however, few studies have been dedicated to evaluate the role of water on the electrical and mechanical properties of the films. Multilayered (PEI/PAA) structures were easily self-assembled on various substrates, allowing homogeneous and semi-transparent coverages. We associate the exponential and linear growth regimes of (PEI/PAA) with changes in the electrical characteristics acquired after each step of the film formation. We demonstrated the central role of trapped water on the space charge accumulation at polymer/electrode interface, due to the presence of negative differential resistance regions, and the transition of the charge transport to a space charge regime after a critical potential. We have also investigated changes in the mechanical properties, showing the influence of trapped water in the film elastic modulus, wear resistance, and resistance to plastic deformation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
