A Surlyn® ionomer as a self-healing and self-sensing composite

Reynolds, Phillip John (2012). A Surlyn® ionomer as a self-healing and self-sensing composite. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

The ionomer known by its trademark name as Surlyn has recently become an area of interest as it reportedly has the ability to self-heal. In this project, new techniques were employed to investigate three grades of Surlyn (PC2000, 9910 and 1706) with a view to the development of a self-healing and self-sensing composite. The study initially focused on the development of Surlyn plaques and Surlyn fibres; reporting on both the self-healing and self-sensing capabilities of Surlyn. Grade PC2000 fibres were shown to have the highest light transmission results and clearly showed the ability to act as self-sensing light guides. The crack healing ability of Surlyn fibres and Surlyn film was studied during mode I fracture tests and Surlyn was shown to act as a crack arrestor increasing the fracture toughness of carbon-fibre and also suggesting that Surlyn is able to self-heal. Surlyn films and Surlyn fibres were then fabricated with VTM 264 glass-fibre pre-preg with a view to producing a self-healing and self-sensing composite. Further investigation into the self-healing and selfsensing abilities of the fabricated Surlyn composites and Surlyn fibres is discussed.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):