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Extrinsic Measurement of Carbon Black Aggregate Distribution within a Fluoroelastomer Matrix from Nanoindentation
P Baral1,2, C Fradet3,4, F Lacroix3
1Université Lyon, Ecole Centrale de Lyon, CNRS UMR 5513 LTDS , Ecully F-69134 , France.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|January 11, 2020
Summary
A new nanoindentation method measures particle distribution in carbon black elastomers. This technique uses contact stiffness to map particle locations, offering an alternative to electron microscopy.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Characterizing particle distribution in filled elastomers is crucial for understanding material properties.
- Traditional methods like transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are destructive and time-consuming.
- Developing non-destructive, quantitative methods for in-situ analysis is highly desirable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel extrinsic nanoindentation method for measuring particle surface distribution in carbon black-filled elastomers.
- To establish a relationship between contact stiffness measurements and particle distribution.
- To validate the proposed method against established techniques.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing continuous stiffness measurement (CSM) mode during nanoindentation.
- Developing a tip-particle model based on elastic deformation of the elastomer matrix.
- Relating the evolution of contact stiffness to the contact area between the indenter and particles.
- Validating the model through numerical simulations and experimental studies.
Main Results:
- The developed method successfully measures particle surface distribution in carbon black-filled elastomers.
- Contact stiffness evolution directly correlates with the increase in contact area between the tip-particle set and the elastomer matrix.
- Correction for measurement bias improved the accuracy of the particle distribution assessment.
- Nanoindentation measurements showed good agreement with transmission electron microscopy observations.
Conclusions:
- The proposed nanoindentation method provides a viable extrinsic approach for determining particle surface distribution in elastomers.
- This technique offers a non-destructive alternative to traditional methods, enabling quantitative analysis.
- The validated model enhances the understanding of filler-matrix interactions and their impact on material behavior.
