Influence of fillers on the mechanical properties and failure behavior of filled polymer materials

• Applicants: Professor Dr.-Ing. Andreas Ricoeur; Dr.-Ing. Jan-Christoph Zarges
• Subject Area: Mechanics
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 522837572

The aim of the proposed research project is to characterize the influence of different particles on the failure mechanisms of filled plastics under different loading conditions. Regarding the particles, their size, shape and orientation in the composite material as well as the interface between particles and matrix are important factors, influencing the mechanical properties and failure behavior of these composite materials. This will be investigated employing the load types tension, bending and shear. The failure mechanisms will be investigated on the micro- and mesoscale, respectively. Important factors are the formation of cracks at the inclusions, both in the form of interfacial (adhesive) and matrix (cohesive) cracks and their propagation, both in the polymer matrix and in the inclusions. Finally, the results of the failure mechanisms on the mesoscale will allow the assessment of the failure mechanisms of components on the macroscale. In this context, both fracture mechanical and classical strength aspects are considered. In addition to a strong application focus, fundamental research in solid mechanics is required, in particular concerning the J-integral of cohesive zones as well as configurational forces and their interpretations with regard to crack formation and deflection at interfaces under mixed-mode loading conditions.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants