Abstract

We report the first measurements of a self-healing polymer that combines a microencapsulated liquid healing agent and shape memory alloy (SMA) wires. When a propagating crack ruptures the embedded microcapsules, the liquid healing agent is automatically released into the crack where it contacts a solid catalyst embedded in the matrix. The SMA wires are then activated to close the crack during the healing period. We show that dramatically improved healing performance is obtained by the activation of embedded SMA wires. We conclude that improved healing is due to a reduction of crack volume as a result of pulling the crack faces closed, and more complete polymerization of the healing agent due to the heat produced by the activated SMA wires.

Full Text
Paper version not known

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 call

Disclaimer: 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.