Method for Locally Measuring Strength of a Polymer-Inorganic Interface During Cure and Aging

A robust, versatile and portable test system will be developed based on the NMR relaxometry/diffusomtry principles for thorough, reliable, expedient and economical nondestructive evaluation of the polymer/inorganic interface structure and properties. NMR relaxometry/diffusometry probes sensitive volumes that can be moved to scan the interface. This nondestructive test measures a number of parameters that relate to molecular mobility and diffusivity. These parameters have been used to identify different phases, and the curing and degradation conditions of polymers. Statistically significant correlations have been established between the NMR relaxometry/diffusometry test data and the mechanical properties of different polymers. The proposed Phase I project will design and fabricate an NMR relaxometer/diffusometer test system for probing polymer/inorganic interfaces. The system will be used to nondestructively monitor the evolution of a model polymer/inorganic interface as it cures and experiences degradation under hygrothermal effects. Multiple destructive tests will also be performed in order to characterize the model interface structure and properties during curing and degradation. Results of these control tests will be used to verify the merits of NMR relaxometry/diffusometry as a reliable nondestructive method of determining the structure and mechanical properties of polymer/inorganic interfaces. The competitive merits of the new test system will also be assessed.