Multi-Scale Model for the Aging Performance of Particle-Filled Polymer Composites

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Composite Materials

Background:

• Particle-filled polymer composites (PFPCs) are susceptible to degradation under thermo-oxidative aging.
• Predicting the long-term performance of PFPCs requires understanding complex aging mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel multi-scale model for predicting the aging performance of PFPCs.
• To validate the model's reliability through experimental data.

Main Methods:

• High-temperature accelerated aging tests were performed.
• Microscopic analysis focused on polymer matrix crosslinking density.
• Macroscopic analysis examined elastic modulus and dewetting strain relationships.
• A multi-scale model was constructed integrating microscopic and macroscopic findings.

Main Results:

• The crosslinking density evolution was linked to polymer oxidation kinetics.
• A correlation between crosslinking density and elastic modulus was established using polymer physics.
• Macroscopic behavior, including dewetting strain, was analyzed in relation to elastic modulus.
• The developed multi-scale model demonstrated high accuracy in predicting PFPC aging.

Conclusions:

• The novel multi-scale model effectively predicts the aging performance of PFPCs under thermo-oxidative conditions.
• The model's predictions align well with experimental results, confirming its reliability.
• This approach offers a robust tool for assessing the durability of polymer composites.