Title : Biomimetics in composite interface engineering: Opportunities for interface monitoring and life-time extension
Abstract:
The need for longer material lifetime and monitoring of the residual life-time of composite materials is a technical problem to be solved as an important contribution to the circular economy. The performance of fiber-reinforced polymer composites is mainly determined by the interface compatibility. In particular, the hydrophilic nature of cellulose fibers dispersed in a hydrophobic matrix requires additional surface modification as traditionally done with chemical surface grafting and hazardous solvents. Taking into account the environmental friendliness of cellulose composites, however, more sustainable routes are required to operate under aqueous environment and utilization of biopolymer substitution. Inspiration can be found in analysis and transformation of biomimetic concepts. In particular, the use of polydopamine as adhesive mediator has been explored in providing a general platform to functionalize cellulose fibers. In this presentation, different conformations for surface modifications of cellulose fibers with dopamine are illustrated for enhancing compatibility. This is done either by self-polymerization of polydopamine into a compatible surface layer and/or the self-assembly of dopamine functional groups into vesicular structures that are physically adsorbed at the cellulose surface. After a study on the surface adhesion of modified cellulose fibers, they were incorporated in PMMA matrix through solution casting. The local adhesive properties of the modified cellulose fibers were probed by atomic force microscopy and seem to contribute to higher interfacial shear strength. This was confirmed by the single-fiber pull out tests at macroscale indicating an optimum concentration of nanoparticles at the cellulose surface. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the composites were function of the degree of surface modification and superior to untreated fibers. In addition, the nanoparticles show colorimetric and fluorescent response to mechanical shear stresses providing an evaluation tool to explore the interface phenomena upon failure of the PMMA composite.
Audience take away:
- Novel design strategy for polymer composite interfaces based on natural materials
- Adhesion properties of mussel-inspired composition
- Strengthening composite interface with natural materials
- Detection and monitoring of interface failure
- Life-time extension of polymeric composite materials
