Self-Healing Polymeric Composite Material Design, Failure Analysis and Future Outlook: A Review

Abstract

Abstract:The formation of micro-cracks and crack propagation is still an acute problem in polymer and polymer composites. These micro-cracks usually occur while the materials are manufactured or serviced. The development and coalescence of these cracks reduces the lifespan and brings about a catastrophic failure of the materials. Novel scientific research on polymeric self-healing is emphasised in a number of publications, which consist of contributions from many of the prominent researchers in this area. Progress in this field can eventually enable scientist to construct new flexible materials that both monitor the material's integrity and repair the deformed material prior to the occurrence of any fatal failures. This report describes recent trends that have been used in material science and computational methods to mitigate the development of micro-cracks and crack propagation in polymer composites.

Properties of conductive polymer hydrogels and their application in sensors

“…In the nonautonomous self‐healing system, once injury occurs, additional external stimuli are needed to trigger the occurrence of self‐healing behavior, such as light, heat, electricity, humidity, pressure, and so on. In contrast, autonomic self‐healing can occur without the need for additional stimuli …”

“…In contrast, autonomic self-healing can occur without the need for additional stimuli. 52,53 Dynamic covalent chemistry is an effective strategy to prepare intrinsically self-healing CPHs. 54,55 Liu et al developed a novel dynamic-covalent bond-based single network hydrogel using calix [4]pyrrole-derivative bearing four hydrazide structures (CPTH) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-DA) as a two component gelator [ Fig.…”

Self‐healing supramolecular waterborne polyurethane dispersions with quadruple hydrogen bonds in main chain

“…[9][10][11] The superior self-healing properties of supramolecular PU can help it solve the problems caused by the scratches and cracks on the surface in daily use, such as the negative impact on functionality or lifespan. [12,13] Besides, the mechanical properties of PU are enhanced by strong intermolecular hydrogen bonding forces. [14] So far, diverse quadruple hydrogen bond systems have been designed and studied extensively, especially the 2-ureido-4[1H]pyrimidinone (UPy) quadruple hydrogen bond system bound in the form of AADD-DDAA (D-proton donor, A-proton acceptor), which is known for its pretty high dimerization constant (>10 7 L/mol) and stability.…”

Mechanical Characterization of DCPD and ENB Healing Systems in Glass Fibre Composites

“…Moreover, if the material is exposed to harsh environment, the polymer composite can suffer degradation, therefore inducing small size defects known as microcracks. These microcracks can be formed either during the fabrication process or during the service of the composite structure, which can cause material failure, thus considerably reducing the lifespan of the whole structure [3][4][5]. Most common NDE methods to detect local damage and identify emerging failures in critical composite structures [6] are infrared thermography, electromagnetic testing, X-ray tomography and vibrothermography [7].…”

“…However, as this film of network does not have a specific mechanical strength, it is considered a defect in the composite structure. This could be the reason why most research in this area is concentrated in evaluating and validating several self-healing mechanisms and concepts [3,21,22] only at sample level. The industrialization of the self-healing system is still far from being realized.…”