The time-dependency of the healing behavior of laser-scratched polymer films

Abend, Marcus; Zechel, Stefan; Tianis, Lukas; Kunz, Clemens; Enke, Marcel; Dahlke, Jan; Gräf, Stephan; Müller, Frank A.; Schubert, Ulrich S.; Hager, Martin D.

Abstract:

The scratch healing behavior of different polymers based on reversible interactions was investigated. For this purpose, scratches were induced via femtosecond laser ablation and were analyzed using laser-scanning microscopy. The healing process was monitored over time and the residual scratch volume was studied. Thus, healing kinetics of different self-healing polymers were obtained revealing a new three step-healing process. An initial time is required in order to start the crack closure behavior. Afterwards, a fast healing behavior followed by a final slow healing period could be observed. Consequently, this study discloses significant insights into the time-dependent healing behavior of polymeric materials.

Year:

2021

Type of Publication:

Article

Journal:

Polymer Testing

Volume:

100

Pages:

107264

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymertesting.2021.107264