Assessment of Electrical and Mechanical Characteristics of Epoxy Composites: Novel Microcapsule Based Self-Healing Polymers

Abstract

Researchers are examining the development and analysis of self-healing fiber-reinforced microcapsules. Self-healing composites offer a promising solution by autonomously repairing cracks and preventing catastrophic failure. This study investigates the development and characterization of microcapsules embedded in fiber matrix composites. Epoxy was used as the matrix, and 5% to 15% waterborne polyurethane (WPU) with 0.5 to 1.5% MWCNT and 2% to 6% GO (Graphene oxide) was synthesized to make capsules. Microcapsules loaded with healing agents were fabricated using a two-step encapsulation process and characterized for their internal and external morphologies. Moreover, 5% TiO2 was used as a topcoat to enhance the dielectric constant. The epoxy with 1%MWCNT-4%GO/10%WPU hybrid composite has favourable healing properties after 24 h (at ambient temperature). By adding hard reinforced particles, the tensile and flexural strengths increased to 97.2 MPa and 137 MPa, respectively. The coating exhibited improved thermal stability as indicated by TGA. This study introduces the development of a self-healing polymeric system characterized by safety, user-friendliness, and environmental sustainability.