Self-healing of polystyrene block–polyisoprene block–polystyrene

Abstract

The addition of self-healing properties to polystyrene block–polyisoprene block–polystyrene by loading the polymeric matrix with microcapsules filled with monomer [dicyclopentadiene (DCPD)] and first generation Grubbs catalyst is described in detail. The confinement of DCPD in polyurea formaldehyde microcapsules has been demonstrated by Raman spectroscopy. The above mentioned components (polymeric matrix, microcapsules filled with monomer and catalyst) have been mixed in solution, and the solvent has been slowly evaporated. The polymerisation of the monomer (DCPD) within the self-healed polymeric system after the fracture of microcapsules has been confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Slow stress–strain mechanical testing has confirmed the efficiency of the added self-healing capabilities.

Keywords:

• Block copolymer
• Self-healing
• Mechanical tests
• Ring opening polymerisation
• Raman spectroscopy
• Microscopy

Acknowledgement

This research has been supported by the National Science Foundation Partnership for Research and Education in Materials awarded to UTPA University of Minnesota by the Division of Materials Research under grant no. 0934157 NSF.