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Multiple-length-scale deformation analysis in a thermoplastic polyurethane

Author

Listed:
  • Tan Sui

    (University of Oxford)

  • Nikolaos Baimpas

    (University of Oxford
    Present address: Atkins Consulting, Trent House, RTC Business Park, London Road, Derby DE24 8UP, UK.)

  • Igor P. Dolbnya

    (Diamond Light Source, Harwell Campus)

  • Cristina Prisacariu

    (Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry ‘Petru Poni’, Aleea Grigore Ghica Voda)

  • Alexander M. Korsunsky

    (University of Oxford
    Diamond Light Source, Harwell Campus)

Abstract

Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers enjoy an exceptionally wide range of applications due to their remarkable versatility. These block co-polymers are used here as an example of a structurally inhomogeneous composite containing nano-scale gradients, whose internal strain differs depending on the length scale of consideration. Here we present a combined experimental and modelling approach to the hierarchical characterization of block co-polymer deformation. Synchrotron-based small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering and radiography are used for strain evaluation across the scales. Transmission electron microscopy image-based finite element modelling and fast Fourier transform analysis are used to develop a multi-phase numerical model that achieves agreement with the combined experimental data using a minimal number of adjustable structural parameters. The results highlight the importance of fuzzy interfaces, that is, regions of nanometre-scale structure and property gradients, in determining the mechanical properties of hierarchical composites across the scales.

Suggested Citation

  • Tan Sui & Nikolaos Baimpas & Igor P. Dolbnya & Cristina Prisacariu & Alexander M. Korsunsky, 2015. "Multiple-length-scale deformation analysis in a thermoplastic polyurethane," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 6(1), pages 1-9, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:6:y:2015:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms7583
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7583
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