‘Containers’ for self-healing epoxy composites and coating: Trends and advances

Abstract

Abstract.The introduction of self-healing functionality into epoxy matrix is an important and challenging topic. Various micro/nano containers loaded self-healing agents are developed and incorporated into epoxy matrix to impart self-healing ability. The current report reviews the major findings in the area of self-healing epoxy composites and coatings with special emphasis on these containers. The preparation and use of polymer micro/nano capsules, polymer fibers, hollow glass fibers/bubbles, inorganic nanotubes, inorganic meso-and nano-porous materials, carbon nanotubes etc. as self-healing containers are outlined. The nature of the container and its response to the external stimulations greatly influence the self-healing performance. The self-healing mechanism associated with each type of container and the role of container parameters on self-healing performance of self-healing epoxy systems are reviewed. Comparison of the efficiency offered by different types of containers is introduced. Finally, the selection of containers to develop cost effective and green self-healing systems are mentioned.

Microencapsulated amino‐functional polydimethylsiloxane as autonomous external self‐healing agent for epoxy systems

“…Conceptually, in general, self‐healing polymer systems contain microcapsules filled with a regeneration agent, usually monomers and/or primers, dispersed into the polymer matrix. If eventually a crack is generated in the material, this propagating crack will rupture the microcapsule shell, releasing the regeneration agent into the crack, which will polymerize preventing crack propagation …”

A comparative study on long term stability of self-healing epoxy coating with different inorganic nanotubes as healing agent reservoirs

“…Recently, the technologies involving the use selfhealing polymer coatings are proved to increase the life span of the metal substrates. The key component of self-healing coating is reservoirs for the storage and release of healing agents or corrosion inhibitors [15][16][17][18][19]. The loading of healing agents inside small diameters are getting much attention these days.…”

Smart polymer nanocomposites: A review

“…Self-healing technology can be applied for thermoplastic and thermoset systems. Vijayan and Al-Maadeed [65] had documented a review on the selfhealing epoxy composites and coating. The nature of the 'container' (which containing healing agent) such as the material, shell wall thickness, storage stability, and its response to the external stimulations (e.g., mechanical impact) are of great importance in determining the self-healing efficiency.…”