TY - JOUR A1 - Battig, Alexander A1 - Garfias González, Karla I. A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - Valorizing “non-vegan” bio-fillers: Synergists for phosphorus flame retardants in epoxy resins N2 - Sustainable, biogenic flame retardant adjuvants for epoxy resins are receiving increased focus. Zoological products like insects, bone meal, and eggshells are available in large quantities, but remain uninvestigated as functional fillers to epoxy resins, although they are potential synergists to flame retardants. The efficacy and flame retardancy of “non-vegan” additives in combination with flame retardants is investigated and the fire behavior and thermal decomposition of bio-sourced epoxy resin composites is characterized. By comparing the fire performance of composites containing flame retardants or fillers at varying loadings (5, 10, and 20%), their role as synergists that enhance the function of organophosphorus flame retardants in bio-epoxy composites is identified and quantified. Peak heat release rates were 44% lower in composites containing both filler and flame retardant versus those containing only flame retardants, and fire loads were reduced by 44% versus the pure resin, highlighting the ability of “non-vegan” fillers to function as synergists. KW - Flame retardancy KW - Synergy KW - Bio-composite KW - Epoxy resin KW - Biogenic KW - Renewable PY - 2022 DO - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2022.109875 SN - 0141-3910 VL - 198 SP - 109875 PB - Elsevier Ltd. AN - OPUS4-54438 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Strommer, Bettina A1 - Battig, Alexander A1 - Frasca, Daniele A1 - Schulze, Dietmar A1 - Huth, Christian A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - Multifunctional Property Improvements by Combining Graphene and Conventional Fillers in Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene Rubber Composites N2 - The incorporation of nanoparticles like multilayer graphene (MLG) into elastomeric composites boosts their technical performance, such as their mechanical behavior and electrical conductivity. Common filler types (carbon black (CB) and aluminum trihydroxide (ATH)) generally fulfill single, specific purposes and are often used in high loadings. CB typically reinforces rubber mechanically, while ATH increases flame retardancy. Small amounts of MLG reduce these high filler contents and maintain the multifunctional characteristics of rubber composites. In chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM) + ATH, an intrinsically flame-retardant rubber was designed to achieve the highest standards such as maximum average of heat emission (MARHE) <90 kW m−2, 3 phrMLG was substituted for 15 phr CB and/or 3 phr ATH via an industrially applicable processing approach. Replacing either CB or ATH resulted in a property profile that was multifunctionally improved in terms of features such as mechanical performance, reduced sorption, and flame retardance. MLG nanocomposites are reported to show promise as an industrially utilizable route to obtain multifunctional high-performance rubbers. KW - Nanocomposites KW - Rubber KW - Multilayer graphene KW - Flame retardancy KW - Synergy KW - Nanoparticles KW - Elastomers PY - 2022 DO - https://doi.org/10.1021/acsapm.1c01469 SN - 2637-6105 VL - 4 IS - 2 SP - 1021 EP - 1034 PB - ACS Publ. CY - Washington, DC AN - OPUS4-54330 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Strommer, Bettina T1 - Natural Rubber Nanocomposites via Optimized Latex Premixing and Conventional Technical Processing N2 - Creation of highly functional materials and replacement of high amounts of conventional fillers are driving forces for the development of nanocomposites. Besides the type and properties of nanoparticles, their dispersing in the elastomeric matrix and the stability of this dispersion through all processing steps are the main factors for the resulting performance of the produced material. Therefore, a preparation chain via latex premixing to a highly filled masterbatch, followed by conventional technical processing is to be developed. Three types of carbon-based particles are characterized as such (SEM, Raman Spectroscopy, BET specific surface area) and in combination with natural rubber, as nanocomposites (TEM. Hardness, Abrasion resistance, Compression set, Cone calorimetry). All of the studied particles lead to an improvement in the investigated mechanical properties, the extent of reinforcement depends strongly on the specific surface of the particle interacting with the elastomeric matrix in combination with their shape. T2 - DKG Elastomer Symposium CY - Online meeting DA - 28.06.2021 KW - Processing KW - Elastomers KW - Nanocomposites KW - Graphene KW - Nanoparticles KW - Latex KW - Natural rubber PY - 2021 AN - OPUS4-53106 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Battig, Alexander T1 - Multifunctional Graphene in Flame Retarded Polybutadiene/ Chloroprene/ Carbon Black Composites N2 - Multilayer graphene is investigated as a multifunctional nanofiller to polybutadiene/ chloroprene rubbers (BR/CR) that partially substitutes carbon black (CB) and aluminum trihydroxide (ATH). Loadings of only 3 parts per hundred rubber (phr) MLG replaced 15 phr of CB and/or 3 phr of ATH in BR/CR nanocomposites. Mechanical and fire behavior were investigated, and results point to improved rheological, curing and mechanical properties of MLG-containing rubber composites. T2 - 18th European Meeting on Fire Retardant Polymeric Materials, FRPM21 CY - Budapest, Hungary DA - 29.08.2021 KW - Graphene KW - Rubber KW - Fire Retardant KW - Nanofiller KW - Nanocomposite KW - ATH PY - 2021 AN - OPUS4-53202 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Tan, Yi A1 - Wachtendorf, Volker A1 - Klack, Patrick A1 - Kukofka, Tobias A1 - Ruder, J. A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - Durability of the flame retardance of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer cables: Comparing different flame retardants exposed to different weathering conditions N2 - Scientific publications addressing the durability of the flame retardance of cables during their long-term application are rare and our understanding lacks. Three commercial flame retardants, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum diethyl phosphinate (AlPi-Et), and intumescent flame retardant based on ammonium polyphosphate, applied in ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) model cables, are investigated. Different artificial aging scenarios were applied: accelerated weathering (UV-irradiation/temperature/rain phases), humidity exposure (elevated temperature/humidity), and salt spray exposure. The deterioration of cables’ surface and flame retardancy were monitored through imaging, color measurements, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and cone calorimeter investigations. Significant degradation of the materials’ surface occurred. The flame retardant EVA cables are most sensitive to humidity exposure; the cable with AlPi-Et is the most sensitive to the artificial aging scenarios. Nevertheless, substantial flame retardance persisted after being subjected for 2000 h, which indicates that the equivalent influence of natural exposure is limited for several years, but less so for long-term use. KW - Durability KW - Flame retardant KW - Cable KW - Weathering KW - Cone calorimeter PY - 2020 DO - https://doi.org/10.1002/APP.47548 SN - 0021-8995 VL - 137 IS - 1 SP - 47548 PB - Wiley AN - OPUS4-50237 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CHAP A1 - Schartel, Bernhard ED - Hu, Y. ED - Wang, X. T1 - Influence of the Size and Dispersion State of Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials on the Fire Safety of Polymers N2 - Only the nano-scaled structure of the nanocomposite and the dispersion of nanoparticles within the polymer matrix harbor multifunctional potential including superior fire retardancy. Thus, this chapter focuses on the dispersion of nanoplates, based mainly on studies of layered silicates and graphene/graphene-related nanoplates. The nanostructure and properties of the nanocomposites are dependent mainly on thermodynamic and kinetic factors during preparation. Improving nano-dispersion often directly improves flame retardancy. Therefore, the modification of the nanoplates as well as the preparation of nanocomposites becomes very important to control this dispersion. The dispersion of nanoplates functions as a prerequisite for the formation of an efficient protective layer, changing the melt flow and dripping behavior, or the improvement of the char properties. KW - Nanocomposite KW - Flame retardancy KW - 2D nanoparticle KW - Exfoliation KW - Dispersion KW - Flammability PY - 2023 SN - 978-1-032-35268-8 SN - 978-1-032-35502-3 SN - 978-1-003-32715-8 DO - https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003327158-2 SP - 23 EP - 58 PB - CRC Press CY - Boca Raton AN - OPUS4-58290 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - GEN A1 - Schilling, Markus A1 - Marschall, Niklas A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Dataset of comprehensive Full-notch creep tests (FNCT) of selected high-density polyethylene (PE-HD) materials N2 - The dataset provided in this repository comprises data obtained from a series of full-notch creep tests (FNCT) performed on selected high-density polyethylene (PE-HD) materials (for further details, see section 1 Materials in this document) in accordance with the corresponding standard ISO 16770. The FNCT is one of the mechanical testing procedures used to characterize polymer materials with respect to their environmental stress cracking (ESC) behavior. It is widely applied for PE-HD materials, that are predominantly used for pipe and container applications. It is based on the determination of the time to failure for a test specimen under constant mechanical load in a well-defined and temperature controlled liquid environment. The test device used here also allows for continuous monitoring of applied force, specimen elongation and temperature. KW - Polyethylene KW - Environmental Stress Cracking KW - Full-notch creep test KW - PE-HD KW - Crack growth PY - 2023 DO - https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10143351 PB - Zenodo CY - Geneva AN - OPUS4-58835 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina A1 - Kolmangadi, Mohamed A. A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Frick, B. A1 - Apple, M. A1 - Mole, R. A. A1 - De Souza, N. R. A1 - Zorn, R. A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Confined Segmental Diffusion in Nanophase Separated Janus Polynorbornenes as Investigated by Quasielastic Neutron Scattering N2 - A combination of neutron time-of-flight and neutron backscattering spectroscopy was used to investigate the molecular dynamics of Janus polynorbornenes (Janus poly(tricyclononenes)) on a microscopic level. These Janus polynorbornenes, denoted as PTCNSiOR, have a semirigid backbone with −Si(OR)3 side groups attached to it. R represents the length of the alkyl side chain. Here side chain lengths of R = 3 (propyl) and R = 8 (octyl) were considered. It is worth mentioning that these polymers have some potential as active layers in gas separation membranes, especially for the separation of higher hydrocarbons. The combination of time-of-flight and backscattering will ensure a reasonably broad time window for analysis where the incoherent intermediate scattering function SInc(q,t) is considered. Previously, it was shown by X-ray investigations that the system undergoes a nanophase separation into alkyl side chain-rich domains surrounded by a backbone-rich matrix. For PTCNSiOPr (R = 3), the alkyl side-chain-rich domains are truly isolated in the backbone-rich matrix, whereas for PTCNSiOOc (R = 8) these domains percolate through the matrix. Further, it was also previously shown that the alkyl side-chain-rich domains undergo a glass transition. The advantage of neutron scattering experiments discussed here is that besides temporal also spatial information is obtained which will allow conclusions to be drawn about the type of molecular fluctuations. At the lowest measured temperature, the decay in Sinc(q,t) is due to the methyl group rotation. The methyl group dynamics is analyzed in terms of a modified jump-diffusion in a 3-fold potential and yields to a reasonable fraction of hydrogens which contribute to the methyl group rotation. At higher temperatures, the decay in SInc(q,t) is due to both the methyl group rotation and the segmental dynamics in the alkyl side-chain-rich domains. The segmental diffusion is modeled by a sublinear diffusion. For the analysis of the scattering function SInc(q,t) of PTCNSiOPr an elastic scattering due to the immobilized backbone-rich matrix must be taken into account. The analysis reveals that the segmental dynamics is confined by the finite size of alkyl chain-rich domains and that it is intrinsically heterogeneous in nature. Both effects are more pronounced for PTCNSiOPr in comparison to those of PTCNSiOOc. KW - Polynorbornene KW - Quasielastic Neutron Scattering PY - 2024 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-608712 DO - https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.macromol.4c01045 SP - 1 EP - 14 PB - ACS Publications AN - OPUS4-60871 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Schilling, Markus A1 - Marschall, Niklas A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Wachtendorf, Volker A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Characteristics of environmental stress cracking of PE-HD induced by biodiesel and diesel fuels N2 - In the context of the increasing effect of carbon dioxide emissions on the global climate biodiesel produced from renewable sources has emerged as a promising contender replacing fossil fuels, especially in long-range transport vehicles, using existing engines and infrastructure. High-density polyethylene is one of the prevailing materials for pipe and container applications for storage and transport of such fuels, both, from fossil and renewable resources. The contact with the respective fuels raises questions concerning material compatibility as biodiesel exhibits significant differences compared to conventional diesel fuel affecting its sorption and plasticization behavior in polyethylene. In this study, its behavior with respect to environmental stress cracking, considered one of the most frequent damage mechanisms leading to failure of polymer parts and packaging, was evaluated using the well-established Full Notch Creep Test. This approach allows for a detailed fracture surface analysis using imaging techniques, such as optical and laser scanning microscopy, as well as infrared spectroscopy. Comparing the environmental stress cracking behavior in standard surfactant solutions with that in biodiesel and diesel, respective crack propagation rates, showing different levels of acceleration, were determined and details of the underlying mechanisms could be revealed. Furthermore, the specific infrared absorption of the biodiesel’s ester functionality allows its semi-quantitative determination on the fracture surface of the tested specimens after failure. Thus, a preferred uptake of sorptive fluids in the fracture zone due to local morphological changes of the polyethylene could be directly evidenced by infrared spectroscopy. KW - Environmental stress cracking (ESC) KW - Full notch creep test (FNCT) KW - Confocal laser scanning microscopy (LSM) KW - Biodiesel KW - Diesel PY - 2024 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-608591 DO - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymertesting.2024.108547 SN - 0142-9418 VL - 138 SP - 1 EP - 16 PB - Elsevier Ltd. AN - OPUS4-60859 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina A1 - Kolmangadi, Mohamed A. A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - De Souza, N. R. A1 - Juranyi, F. A1 - Zorn, R. A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Inelastic and Quasielastic Neutron Scattering on Polynorbornenes with Bulky Carbocyclic Side groups N2 - This study investigates the molecular mobility and vibrational properties of polynorbornenes with bulky carbocyclic side groups using inelastic and quasielastic neutron scattering techniques. The polymers, synthesized via metathesis and addition polymerization, exhibit varying degrees of microporosity, which ignificantly influences their gas separation performance. By inelastic neutron scattering experiments, it could be shown that all considered polymers have excess contributions to the low frequency vibrational density of states known as the Boson peak. The maximum frequency of the Boson peak correlates to the microporosity of the polymers. This correlation supports the sound wave interpretation of the Boson peak, suggesting that the microporous structure enhances the compressibility of the material at a microscopic length scale. The molecular mobility, particularly the methyl group rotation, was characterized using elastic scans and quasielastic neutron scattering. The study revealed a temperature dependent relaxation process, with the onset of molecular fluctuations observed around 200 K for the polymer containing methyl groups. For the polymer having no methyl groups only elastic scattering is observed. The methyl group rotation was analyzed in terms of a jump diffusion in a threefold potential with three equivalent energy minima. This leads to an almost correct description of the q dependence of the elastic incoherent scattering function when the number of hydrogen nuclei undergoing the methyl group rotation is considered. It was further evidenced that the fraction of methyl undergoing the methyl group rotation increases with increasing temperature. KW - Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity KW - Neutron scattering PY - 2025 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-630297 DO - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymer.2025.128358 SN - 1873-2291 VL - 328 SP - 241 PB - Elsevier Ltd. AN - OPUS4-63029 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Zorn, R. A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina A1 - Kolmangadi, Mohamed Aejaz A1 - Malpass-Evans, R. A1 - McKeown, N. A1 - Jalarvo, N. A1 - Tyagi, M. A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Microscopic molecular mobility of high-performance polymers of intrinsic microporosity revealed by neutron scattering – bend fluctuations and signature of methyl group rotation N2 - Polymers of intrinsic microporosity exhibit a combination of high gas permeability and reasonable permselectivity, which makes them attractive candidates for gas separation membrane materials. The diffusional selective gas transport properties are connected to the molecular mobility of these polymers in the condensed state. Incoherent quasielastic neutron scattering was carried out on two polymers of intrinsic microporosity, PIM-EA-TB(CH3) and its demethylated counterpart PIM-EA-TB(H2), which have high Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area values of 1030 m2 g-1 and 836 m2 g-1, respectively. As these two polymers only differ in the presence of two methyl groups at the ethanoanthracene unit, the effect of methyl group rotation can be investigated solely. To cover a broad dynamic range, neutron time-of-flight was combined with neutron backscattering. The demethylated PIM-EA-TB(H2) exhibits a relaxation process with a weak intensity at short times. As the backbone is rigid and stiff this process was assigned to bendand-flex fluctuations. This process was also observed for the PIM-EA-TB(CH3). A further relaxation process is found for PIM-EA-TB(CH3), which is the methyl group rotation. It was analyzed by a jump-diffusion in a three-fold potential considering also the fact that only a fraction of the present hydrogens in PIM-EATB(CH3) participate in the methyl group rotation. This analysis can quantitatively describe the q dependence of the elastic incoherent structure factor. Furthermore, a relaxation time for the methyl group rotation can be extracted. A high activation energy of 35 kJ mol-1 was deduced. This high activation energy evidences a strong hindrance of the methyl group rotation in the bridged PIM-EA-TB(CH3) structure. KW - Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity KW - Neutron Scattering PY - 2024 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-604114 DO - https://doi.org/10.1039/d4sm00520a SP - 1 EP - 11 PB - RSC AN - OPUS4-60411 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Thuy, Maximilian A1 - Pedragosa-Rincon, M. A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Oehler, H. A1 - Alig, I. A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Environmental Stress Cracking of High-Density Polyethylene Applying Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics N2 - The crack propagation rate of environmental stress cracking was studied on high-density polyethylene compact tension specimens under static loading. Selected environmental liquids are distilled water, 2 wt% aqueous Arkopal N100 solution, and two model liquid mixtures, one based on solvents and one on detergents, representing stress cracking test liquids for commercial crop protection products. The different surface tensions and solubilities, which affect the energetic facilitation of void nucleation and craze development, are studied. Crack growth in surface-active media is strongly accelerated as the solvents induce plasticization, followed by strong blunting significantly retarding both crack initiation and crack propagation. The crack propagation rate for static load as a function of the stress intensity factor within all environments is found to follow the Paris–Erdogan law. Scanning electron micrographs of the fracture surface highlight more pronounced structures with both extensive degrees of plasticization and reduced crack propagation rate, addressing the distinct creep behavior of fibrils. Additionally, the limitations of linear elastic fracture mechanisms for visco-elastic polymers exposed to environmental liquids are discussed. KW - Crack propagation KW - Environmental stress cracking KW - Fracture toughness KW - Crop protection products KW - High-density polyethylene KW - Craze–crack mechanism KW - Linear elastic fracture mechanics KW - Stress intensity factor PY - 2022 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-550476 DO - https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14122415 SN - 2073-4360 VL - 14 IS - 12 SP - 1 EP - 21 PB - MDPI CY - Basel AN - OPUS4-55047 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Zorn, R. A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina A1 - Kolmangadi, Mohamed Aejaz A1 - Malpass-Evans, R. A1 - McKeown, N. A1 - Tyagi, M. A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Low frequency vibrations and diffusion in disordered polymers bearing an intrinsic microporosity as revealed by neutron scattering N2 - The microscopic diffusion and the low frequency density of states (VDOS) of PIM-EATB(CH3) are investigated by inelastic and quasi-elastic neutron scattering where also the demethylated counterpart of PIM-EA-TB(H2) is considered. These intrinsic microporous polymers are characterized by large BET surface area values of several hundred m2/g and pore sizes between 0.5 and 2 nm. Detailed comparison is made to the archetype of polymers of intrinsic microporosity, PIM-1, and polynorbornenes also bearing a microporosity. Due to the wavelength of neutrons, the diffusion and vibrations can be addressed on microscopic length and time scales. From the inelastic neutron scattering experiments the low frequency density of states (VDOS) is estimated which shows excess contributions to the Debye-type VDOS known as Boson peak. It was found that the maximum frequency of the Boson peak decreases with increasing microporosity characterized by the BET surface area. However, besides the BET surface area, additional factors such as the backbone stiffness govern the maximum frequency of the Boson peak. Further the mean squared displacement related to microscopic motions was estimated from elastic fixed window scans. At temperatures above 175 K, the mean squared displacement PIM-EA-TB(CH3) is higher than that for the demethylated counterpart PIM-EA-TB(H2). The additional contribution found for PIM-EATB(CH3) is ascribed to the rotation of the methyl group in this polymer because the only difference between the two structures is that PIM-EA-TB(CH3) has methyl groups where PIM-EA-TB(H2) has none. A detailed comparison of the molecular dynamics is also made to that of PIM-1 and the microporous polynorbornene PTCNSi1. The manuscript focuses on the importance of vibrations and the localized molecular mobility characterized by the microscopic diffusion on the gas Transport in polymeric separation membranes. In the frame of the random gate model localized fluctuations can open or close bottlenecks between pores to enable the diffusion of gas molecules. KW - Polymer of intrisic microporosity KW - Neutron scattering KW - Boson peak KW - Methyl group rotation PY - 2021 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-538490 DO - https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst11121482 VL - 11 IS - 12 SP - 1 EP - 16 PB - MDPI CY - Basel AN - OPUS4-53849 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Erdmann, Maren A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Wachtendorf, Volker A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Evaluation of UV-induced embrittlement of PE-HD by Charpy impact test N2 - The impact fracture behavior of two common high-density polyethylene grades for container applications were intensively studied by the instrumented Charpy impact test after well-defined exposure to UV-irradiation. Individual stages of the impact event, such as crack initiation and crack propagation energy as well as maximum impact load, were investigated from the recorded load–deflection curves. UV-induced material property changes were further investigated by infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic-mechanical analysis as well as density measurements. Based on the results of the Charpy impact test, three indicators were identified to describe the extend of photooxidation on high-density polyethylene: (a) a reduced Charpy impact strength—at least to half of its initial value for a distinctly brittle impact fracture, (b) a marked decrease in the crack propagation contribution to the impact strength, and (c) an increase of the brittle features of the fracture surface. KW - Degradation KW - Mechanical properties KW - Packaging KW - Polyolefins KW - Polyethylene PY - 2020 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-509130 DO - https://doi.org/10.1002/APP.49069 SN - 0021-8995 VL - 137 IS - 36 SP - 49069 PB - Wiley AN - OPUS4-50913 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Schilling, Markus A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Marschall, Niklas A1 - Alig, I. A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - A phenomenological criterion for an optical assessment of PE-HD fracture surfaces obtained from FNCT N2 - The full-notch creep test (FNCT) is a common test method to evaluate the environmental stress cracking (ESC) behavior of high-density polyethylene (PE-HD), e.g. for container materials. The test procedure as specified in ISO 16770 provides a comparative measure of the resistance against ESC using the time to failure of PE-HD specimens under constant mechanical load in a well-defined liquid test environment. Since the craze-crack damage mechanism underlying the ESC phenomenon is associated with brittle failure, the occurrence of a predominantly brittle fracture surface is a prerequisite to consider an FNCT measurement as representative for ESC, i.e. a time to failure dominated by craze-crack propagation. The craze-crack propagation continuously reduces the effective residual cross-sectional area of the specimen during the test, which results in a corresponding increase of the effective mechanical stress. Thus, a transition to ductile shear deformation is inevitable at later stages of the test, leading usually to a pronounced central ligament. Therefore, an optical evaluation of FNCT fracture surfaces concerning their brittleness is essential. An enhanced imaging analysis of FNCT fracture surfaces enables a detailed assessment of craze-crack Propagation during ESC. In this study, laser scanning microscopy (LSM) was employed to evaluate whether FNCT fracture surfaces are representative with respect to craze-crack propagation and ESC. Based on LSM height data, a phenomenological criterion is proposed to assess the validity of distinct FNCT measurements. This criterion is supposed to facilitate a quick evaluation of FNCT results in practical routine testing. Its applicability is verified on a sample basis for seven different commercial PE-HD container materials. KW - Environmental stress cracking (ESC) KW - Full notch creep test (FNCT) KW - Laser scanning microscopy (LSM) KW - Fracture surfaces KW - Optical criterion of brittleness PY - 2021 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-521012 DO - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymertesting.2020.107002 VL - 94 SP - 107002 PB - Elsevier Ltd. CY - Amsterdam AN - OPUS4-52101 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CHAP A1 - Schönhals, Andreas A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina ED - Schönhals, Andreas ED - Szymoniak, Paulina T1 - (Nano)Composite Materials—An Introduction N2 - The chapter gives a brief introduction to (nano)compositecomposite materials having the focus on polymer-based nanocomposites. The different dimensionalities of nanoparticles are introduced, along with their distribution in the matrix. Different application fields of polymer-based nanocomposites, like flame retardancy, filled rubbers, nanofilled thermosets and thermoplastics, separation membranes and nanodielectrics, are considered in greater detail. KW - Polymer-based nanocomposites KW - Nanoparticle KW - Distribution of nanoparticles KW - Filled rubbers KW - Filled thermosets and plastics KW - Separation membranes KW - Nanodielectrics PY - 2022 DO - https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-89723-9_1 SP - 1 EP - 31 PB - Springer CY - Cham, Switzerland AN - OPUS4-54565 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Emamverdi, Farnaz A1 - Yin, Huajie A1 - Smales, Glen Jacob A1 - Harrison, W. J. A1 - Budd, P. M. A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Polymers of intrinsic microporosity - Molecular mobility and physical aging revisited by dielectric spectroscopy and X‑ray scattering N2 - Polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) are promising candidates for the active layer in gas separation membranes due to their high permeability and reasonable permselectivity. These appealing properties originate from a microporous structure as a result of inefficient segment packing in the condensed state due to a combination of a ladder-like rigid backbone and sites of contortion. However, this class of polymers suffers from a significant decrease in the permeability with time due to physical aging, whereby typically, the permselectivity increases. The initial microporous structures approach a denser state via local rearrangements, leading to the reduction of the permeability. Hence, a detailed characterization of the molecular mobility in such materials can provide valuable information on physical aging. In this work, the dielectric behavior of PIM-1 films and their behavior upon heating (aging) were revisited by isothermal frequency scans during different heating/cooling cycles over a broad temperature range between 133 and 523 K (−140 to 250 °C). In addition, the obtained results were compared with data of samples that were annealed at ambient temperatures over different time scales. Multiple dielectric processes were observed: several relaxation processes due to local fluctuations and a Maxwell−Wagner−Sillars polarization effect related to the microporosity. The temperature dependence of the rates of all processes follows the Arrhenius law where the estimated activation energy depends on the nature of the process. The influence of the thermal history (aging) on the processes is discussed in detail. KW - Polymers of intrinsic microporosity PY - 2022 DO - https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.macromol.2c00934 VL - 55 SP - 7340 EP - 7350 PB - American Chemical Society CY - Washington, DC AN - OPUS4-55485 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina A1 - Kolmangadi, Mohamed A. A1 - Juranyi, Fanni A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Zorn, Reiner A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Low-Frequency Vibrational Density of State of Janus-Polynorbornenes: The Dependence of the Boson Peak on the Nanophase-Separated Structure N2 - Inelastic incoherent neutron time-of-flight scattering was employed to investigate the low-frequency vibrational density of states (VDOSs) for a series of glassy Janus-poly(tricyclononenes), which consist of a rigid main chain and flexible alkyl side chains. Here, the length of the flexible side chains was systematically varied from propyl to octyl. Such materials have potential applications as active separation layers in gas separation membranes as a green future technology, especially for the separation of higher hydrocarbons. From the morphological point of view, the Janus polynorbornenes undergo a nanophase separation into alkyl side chain-rich nanodomains surrounded by a rigid polynorbornene matrix. Here, the influence of the nanophase-separated structure on the low-frequency VDOS is investigated from a fundamental point of view. The low-frequency VDOSs of these Janus polynorbornene show excess contributions to the Debye type VDOS known as the Boson peak (BP) for all side chain lengths. Due to the high incoherent scattering cross-section of hydrogen, most of the scattering comes from the alkyl side chain-rich domains. Compared to conventional glass-forming materials, in the considered Janus polynorbornenes, the BP has a much lower intensity and its frequency position is shifted to higher values. These experimental results are discussed in terms of the nanophase-separated structure where the alkyl chain-rich domains were constrained by the surrounding matrix dominated by the rigid backbone. With increasing alkyl chain length, the size of the alkyl chain-rich domains increases. The frequency position of the BP shifts linearly to lower frequencies with the size of these nanodomains estimated from X-ray measurements. The obtained results support the sound wave interpretation to the BP KW - Inelastic neutron scattering PY - 2023 DO - https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.macromol.3c00913 SN - 0024-9297 SP - 1 EP - 10 PB - ACS AN - OPUS4-57972 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Zorn, Reiner A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Inelastic and quasielastic neutron scattering experiments on microporous membranes fro green separation processes N2 - Polymers with intrinsic microporosity are promising candidates for the active separation layer in gas separation membranes. These polymers are characterized by a high permeability and reasonable permselectivity. The latter point is somehow surprising because for microporous systems a more Knudson-like diffusion is expected then a size dependent temperature activated sieving process. It was argued in the framework of a random gate model that molecular fluctuations on a time scale from ps to ns are responsible for the permselectivity. Here series of polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) as well as microporous polynorbornenes with bulky Si side groups and a rigid backbone are considered. The polymers have different microporosity characterized by high BET surface area values. First inelastic time-of-flight neutron scattering measurements were carried out to investigate the low frequency density of state (VDOS). The measured data show the characteristic low frequency excess contribution to the VDOS above the Debye sound wave level, generally known as the Boson peak in glass-forming materials. It was found that the frequency of the maximum position of the Boson peak correlates with the BET surface area value. Secondly elastic scans as well as quasielastic neutron scattering measurements by a combination of neutron time-of-flight and backscattering have been out. A low temperature relaxation process was found for both polymers. This process was assigned to the methyl group rotation. It was analysed in terms of a jump diffusion in a three-fold potential. The analysis of the dependence of the elastic incoherent structure factor on the scattering vector yields the number of methyl groups which might be immobilized. The neutron scattering experiments were accompanied by fast scanning calorimetry and broadband dielectric investigations as well as atomistic molecular dynamic simulations. T2 - Kolloquiumsvortrag an der Technischen Universität München CY - Garching, Germany DA - 20.11.2023 KW - Polymers with intrinsic microporosity PY - 2023 AN - OPUS4-59036 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Emamverdi, Farnaz T1 - Molecular Mobility and Physical Aging of Polymers with Intrinsic Microporosity (PIM-1) Revisited: A Big Glassy World N2 - Polymeric membranes represent a cost- and energy-efficient solution for gas separation. Recently Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIMs) have been in a great interest because of their outstanding BET surface area larger than 700m2/g and pore size smaller than 1 nm. PIMs are a promising candidate in gas separation with high permeability and appealing selectivity due to their inefficient packing derived from a combination of ladder-like rigid segments with sites of contortion. However, it is recognized this class of polymers suffer from decrease in performance with time due to physical aging. The initial microporous structures approach a denser state via local chain rearrangements, leading to a dramatic reduction in permeability. As chain packing during film casting and physical aging are the key factors determine the performance in separation applications, characterization of the molecular mobility in these materials has been proved to provide valuable information. In recent research on PIM-1 the archetypal PIM, a molecular relaxation process with high activation energy together with a significant conductivity in the glassy state has been found and explained with the formation of local intermolecular agglomerates due to interaction of π-electrons in aromatic moieties of the polymer backbone. In this work, the dielectric behavior of the polymeric films and their response upon heating (aging) were measured by isothermal frequency scans during different heating/cooling cycles in a broad temperature range down to 133K for the first time. Multiple dielectric processes following Arrhenius behavior were observed. Local fluctuations, Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars (MWS) polarization and structural relaxations were discussed correlating to structural-properties of PIM-1. Up to now, no other work has studied the role of porosity and thermal history of PIM-1 film in dielectric processes. The goal is by eliminating thermal history and considering storing conditions provide better understanding on aging and plasticizing in high free volume glassy polymer PIM-1. T2 - IDS Online Meeting CY - Berlin, Germany DA - 06.09.2021 KW - Physical Aging KW - BDS KW - Microporous structure KW - Permeation PY - 2021 AN - OPUS4-55766 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Emamverdi, Farnaz T1 - Molecular mobility and gas transport properties of mixed matrix membranes based on PIM-1 and POF fillers N2 - Especially now in times of the energy revolution, the demand for energy-efficient separation processes promotes the advancement of new high-performance materials for use as highly selective separation membranes. Polymers with intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) are of high interest in the field of gas separation membranes. Currently the application of PIMs for membrane technology is still restrained by their strong tendency to physical aging involving a significant loss of their good gas separation properties. Physical aging phenomenon is related to the molecular mobility of PIMs which was investigated by broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) previously [1]. In this work, covalent phosphinine-based framework (Eto-CPSF) was used as a nanofiller (0-10 wt %) in a PIM-1 matrix to potentially enhance the gas transport properties and prevent physical aging. Since molecular mobility is a fundamental parameter determining gas transport as well as physical aging in such a material, our study includes dielectric investigations by BDS of pure PIM-1 and PIM-1/Eto-CPSF mixed matrix membranes to establish a correlation between molecular mobility and gas transport properties. In addition, gas permeability was determined by the time-lag method (0-10 bar pressure) at 35 °C for N2, O2, CH4 and CO2 for all MMMs. The dielectric behavior of the polymeric films and their response upon heating were measured by isothermal frequency scans during different heating/cooling cycles in a broad temperature range up to 250 °C. Multiple dielectric processes following Arrhenius behavior were observed. Local fluctuations, Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars (MWS) polarization and structural relaxations were discussed correlating to structural-properties of PIM-1. As main result for MMMs, the permeability of PIM-1 for CH4 and CO2 gases were increased significantly with only 5 wt% of nanofiller within the polymer matrix. However, this is not observed for Eto-CPSF concentrations higher than ca. 7 wt% probably due to a microphase separated morphology of the nanocomposite system. Furthermore, the permselectivity of membranes for pair gases O2/N2 and CO2/N2 show enhancement up to a concentration of about 7 wt% Eto-CPSF filler. T2 - 11th BDS conference CY - San Sebastian, Spain DA - 04.09.2022 KW - Gas transport KW - BDS KW - Mixed Matrix Membrane KW - Nanocomposite PY - 2022 AN - OPUS4-55752 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - GEN A1 - Thuy, Maximilian A1 - Brauch, N. A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Alig, I. A1 - Oehler, H. A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Environmental Stress Cracking of PE-HD Induced by Liquid Test Media Representing Crop Protection Formulations N2 - Packaging containers for dangerous goods that include aggressive liquids require that any packaging material that is based on high-density polyethylene has a high degree of stability and durability. This work is focused on testing the environmental stress cracking of the high-density polyethylenes used for such containers in contact with crop protection formulations, in particular, two model liquids established in Germany as standardized test media representatives for crop protection formulations containing the various admixtures typical for such products. One of the liquids is water-based and contains mostly surface-active ingredients, while the other is solvent-based and includes some emulsifiers. Originally established for pin impression tests, these model liquids and their individual components were here used for the first time as environmental media in the Full Notch Creep Test, which addresses the resistance against environmental stress cracking. The Full Notch Creep Test was carried out on five high-density polyethylene types with both model liquids, and also on one selected material with its components. The evaluation was focused on the fracture surface structures, which were visualized by a scanning electron microscope and by optical in situ imaging of the notch opening. While the water-based model liquid and its surface-active individual components induced environmental stress cracking with the characteristic pattern for a craze-crack mechanism and so-called brittle fracture on the surface, the solvent-based model liquid and its soluble ingredients exhibited rather ductile failure behavior, caused by the plasticizing effect on the polymer that reduced the yield stress of the high-density polyethylene. For both cases, fracture surface analysis, together with side views of the crack opening, showed a clear relation between surface pattern, notch deformation (e.g., by blunting), or crack opening due to crack growth with time to failure and the solubility of the liquids in high-density polyethylene. KW - Environmental stress cracking KW - Fracture surface KW - Full Notch Creep Test KW - Crop protection formulations KW - High-density polyethylene PY - 2023 DO - https://doi.org/10.1520/STP164320210095 SP - 317 EP - 341 PB - ASTM International CY - West Conshohocken, PA (USA) AN - OPUS4-57459 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Strommer, Bettina T1 - Networking Skills: The Effect of Graphene on Crosslinking N2 - 2D layered nanoparticles enable a distinct reduction of filler loadings in rubber compounds combined with a boost in performance due to their high surface to volume ratio. They often enable unique property profiles providing a great potential as effective fillers in rubber, especially by enhancing mechanical and barrier properties. As the best possible incorporation into the elastomer matrix is crucial for the efficiency of the nanofiller, dispersing and exfoliation of the nanoparticles without formation of agglomerates usually constitutes an outstanding challenge - especially when using conventional processing methods. Laboratory-scale approaches for highly dispersed nanocomposites sometimes solve this problem, but these are often too energy and time consuming and provide no scale up possibility for real applications. Therefore, a latex premixing process was established to produce highly filled masterbatches, enabling the processing with conventional techniques. The presence of nanoparticles greatly impacts the behavior of elastomeric compounds, besides affecting the properties of the final product also the processing is influenced (rheology, crosslinking). In this study, nanocomposites of natural rubber and multilayer graphene (MLG) were prepared via a latex masterbatch route. Different strategies for masterbatch premixing are compared (stirring vs. ultrasonication, coagulation vs. drying). Dispersion and exfoliation of MLG were determined by transmission electron microscopy. The reinforcing effect of MLG affects the viscosity while the dispersed graphene layers may also act as diffusion barrier/absorbent for the crosslinking agents. In contrast to that, MLG forms physical crosslinks in the final product. Swelling measurements and differential scanning calorimetry allow a differentiation between chemical and physical network links. Different technical properties of the nanocomposites were measured with respect to mechanical and application relevant behavior. T2 - PPS 37 CY - Online meeting DA - 12.04.2022 KW - Elastomers KW - Nanocomposites KW - Graphene KW - Nanoparticles KW - Latex KW - Natural rubber KW - Processing PY - 2022 AN - OPUS4-54696 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Thuy, Maximilian T1 - Umgebungsbedingter Spannungsriss: Gefahr für Kunststoffbauteile unter Medieneinfluss N2 - Polyethylen hoher Dichte (PE-HD) ist ein weit verbreitetes Material für Transportbehälter, die oft für eine längere Nutzungsdauer vorgesehen sind. Insbesondere in diesem Fall können mikroskopische Schäden im Material auch weit unterhalb der Streckgrenze auftreten, die durch eine Spannungskonzentration verursacht werden, deren Ursprung in intrinsischen Materialfehlern oder äußeren Kratzern liegt. Mit fortschreitender Schädigung bilden sich Rissstrukturen, die von verstreckten Fibrillen aufgespannt werden, bis es zum Versagen dieser Fibrillen kommt und sich der Riss ausbreitet. Dieser Schadensmechanismus des langsamen Risswachstums kann durch eine Vielzahl von Umgebungsmedien beschleunigt werden und wird dann als "environmental stress cracking" (ESC) bezeichnet. Eine international normierte Methode zur Validierung der Spannungsrissbeständigkeit von PE-HD Materialien ist der „Full Notch Creep Test“ (FNCT). Anhand von Bruchflächenauswertungen mittels Rasterelektronenmikroskopie und Laser-Scanning-Mikroskopie, werden die typischen Schädigungsstrukturen des ESC sichtbar. Die fibrillierten Strukturen des ESC auf der Bruchfläche von PE-HD ergeben sich besonders bei oberflächenaktiven wässrigen Umgebungsmedien. In Lösungsmittel-Umgebungsmedien, im Zusammenspiel mit PE-HD, kommt es aufgrund der plastifizierenden Wirkung zur Herabsetzung der Streckspannung und Bruchflächen aus dem FNCT veranschaulichen keine signifikanten Anzeichen des Schädigungsmechanismus ESC. T2 - 47. VDI-Jahrestagung Schadensanalyse 2021- Mediale und klimatische Beanspruchung von polymeren Produkten CY - Würzburg, Germany DA - 06.10.2021 KW - Umgebungsbedingter Spannungsriss KW - Polyethylen hoher Dichte KW - Full Notch Creep Test KW - Lösungsmittel KW - Oberflächenaktive wässrige Medien KW - Bruchflächenauswertung PY - 2021 AN - OPUS4-53665 LA - deu AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Alig, I. T1 - Charakterisierung von Behälterwerkstoffen aus Polyethylen N2 - Das langsame Risswachstum (slow crack growth, SCG) sowie der umgebungsbedingte Spannungsriss (environmental stress cracking, ESC) sind relevante Schädigungsmechanismen für teilkristalline Werkstoffe auf Basis von Polyethylen hoher Dichte (PE-HD). Der Vortrag gibt einerseits einen Überblick über die grundlegenden Struktur-Eigenschafts-Beziehungen in diesem Kontext, andererseits werden auch verschiedene praxisorientierte Prüfverfahren vorgestellt. Letztere wurden in gemeinsamen Forschungsprojekten von BAM und LBF mit dem Schwerpunkt Gefahrgutbehälter bzw. Pflanzenschutzmittel vergleichend untersucht und durch weitergehende Analytik ergänzt. T2 - 16. Tagung des Arbeitskreises Polymeranalytik Webkonferenz, Fraunhofer LBF und FGK CY - Online meeting DA - 22.03.2022 KW - Polyethylen KW - Full Notch Creep Test KW - Environmental Stress Cracking KW - Spannungsriss PY - 2022 AN - OPUS4-54547 LA - deu AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Thuy, Maximilian T1 - Damage progression of environmental stress cracking affected by manufacturing process-induced microstructural orientation N2 - Currently, the Full Notch Creep Test (FNCT) [1] method is used by material suppliers and end users in industry for the approval of container and pipe materials based on high-density polyethylene (PE-HD). The resistance to environmental stress cracking (ESC) of the material is evaluated using the time to failure of the specimen in an aqueous solution of a detergent [2, 3]. Usually specimens made of sheets with isotropic material properties, manufactured by hot pressing, are employed in order to obtain intrinsic properties of the material in terms of ESC failure. In contrast, the processes used in manufacturing to form containers and pipes, such as extrusion blow molding or extrusion, impose anisotropic properties to the material. These are mostly due to a microstructural orientation (polymer chains or crystallites) [4]. Furthermore, the different cooling conditions significantly affect the size distribution of crystallites as well as the overall morphology. It is therefore essential to understand the influence of process-induced material characteristics on failure due to ESC. A large number of studies on material properties as a function of microstructural preferential orientation have already been conducted [5-7]. However, effects on ESC as the major failure mechanism of containers and pipes are still rather unexplored [8, 9]. The most important factor is whether primarily intramolecular high-strength covalent bonds or the substantially weaker intermolecular van der Waals forces are predominantly loaded. In addition to the widely established classification by time to failure, the strain or crack opening displacement (COD) provides valuable information about the evolution and progression of damage as a function of time [10, 11]. Optical strain measurement using digital image correlation allows the differences in COD for isotropic and different angles of orientation of anisotropic specimens to be discussed. Also, a post-fracture surface analysis provides clarification on the craze-crack mechanism of the ESC. These different ESC-related properties of extruded and hot-pressed specimens have been investigated at different environmental medium temperatures and different initial stresses to provide a broad characterization of the fracture behavior of PE-HD. T2 - 36th International Conference of the Polymer Processing Society CY - Montreal, Canada DA - 26.09.2021 KW - Environmental stress cracking KW - High-density polyethylene KW - Fracture behavior KW - Microstructural orientation PY - 2021 AN - OPUS4-53400 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Schilling, Markus A1 - Marschall, Niklas A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Modernizing FNCT data handling in polymer labs: Towards efficient management N2 - A streamlined Python-based workflow for transforming Full-Notch Creep Test (FNCT) data into organized, machine-actionable formats is presented. The workflow automates the conversion of raw FNCT data from classic CSV and Excel files into structured outputs that facilitate future semantic integration. Emphasizing practical data handling, the approach includes automation scripts for efficient data extraction, transformation, and storage, which culminate in well-ordered files. This transformation paves the way for potential semantic data integration and facilitates access for users with varying levels of digital experience to enhanced data management in polymer research and testing. KW - PE-HD KW - Full-Notch Creep Test (FNCT) KW - Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC) KW - Data Interoperability KW - FAIR Data KW - Semantic Data PY - 2025 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-637826 DO - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.commatsci.2025.114085 SN - 0927-0256 VL - 259 SP - 1 EP - 5 PB - Elsevier B.V. AN - OPUS4-63782 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - Flame Retardancy Features Sustainability Food for Thought, Fake Fiction, and Future N2 - Sustainability (environmental conservation for the economic welfare and prosperity for all) would revolutionise the plastics industry were it to become predominant practice as a linear, fossil-fuel–based economy is switched to a carbon circular one. Hence, the innovative field of flame-retardant polymeric materials should lend its strength to drive this challenge. Visionary solutions are proposed to inspire us, while the implementation of economically feasible concepts take us forward into the future. A critical overview of current trends is presented, using examples from the literature and our own recent projects. The examples lead from the use of natural materials with some intrinsic flame retardancy, via biocomposites, to using renewable sources for flame retardants. Natural flame retardants and adjuvants are highlighted, motivating our vision. Some of the visionary approaches such as flame-retardant poly(limonene carbonate) or wastewater phosphorus enriched micro algae as a sustainable flame retardant are rather innovative. Further, natural material streams find their way into polymer mass production as fillers, adjuvants, or renewable educt sources; industrial waste streams open the door to sustainable solutions, because they avoid competition for land with farming or virgin forests. Remarks will address recycling, flame retardant vitrimers are potential materials for recyclable thermosets. Only convincing property profiles will prevail both for exploiting renewable sources and circular design; sustainability must not be merely tolerated as an additional demand but should instead be recognized as a solution ensuring our economic welfare now and in the future. Acknowledgement: Funding: BMBF WTZ 01DN16040, DFG Scha 730/19 u. 20, VW-Stiftung: Experiment 97437, BMBF KMU Innovativ 031B1289B. People: A Battig, R Bhatia, J Chacon Castro, M Dudziak, SF Falkenhagen, FR Gleuwitz, a.o. (BAM) and G Sánchez Olivares (CIATEC), R Dey (Constructor University), A Greiner (Bayreuth), a.o. T2 - 19th Bayreuth Polymer Symposium CY - Bayreuth, Germany DA - 21.09.2025 KW - Poly(limonene carbonate) KW - Flame retardant biocomposites KW - Wastewater phosphorus enriched micro algae KW - Non-vegan flame retardant KW - Flame retardant vitrimers KW - Bio-based flame retardant PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-64204 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Rockel, Daniel A1 - Sanchez Olivares, G. A1 - Calderas, F. A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - It’s not waste, it’s a resource: Utilizing industrial waste fibers/mineral fillers to attain flame retardant biocomposites N2 - Integrating natural fibers derived from local industrial waste streams into thermoplastic starch (TPS) proves to be a promising approach towards sustainable flame retardant biocomposites. Initially, three types of waste fibers from the agave, coconut, and leather industries were evaluated for their flame retardant properties in combination with aluminum trihydroxide (ATH), an environmental friendly flame retardant. Leather fiber (BLF) exhibited the best flame retardant performance and were further investigated along with ATH and varying amounts of bentonite nanoclay to enhance the residual protective layer. The combination of multiple components shows improvement in performance while reducing the total load of filler. The images of the fire residues revealed that a more enclosed surface correlates with a reduction in the peak of heat release rate. Whereas higher amounts of bentonite does not deliver further inprovements, only 1 phr nanoclay in the novel multicomponent system of TPS, ATH, BLF, and bentonite synergistically improved the UL-94 rating from HB to V1. The proposed system brings together the different approaches using a renewable biopolymer, natural waste fibres, and envirnmentally friendly flame retardancy and thus, is striking for its combination of outstanding sustainablity, instant feasability, and sufficient fire performance. KW - Biocomposites KW - Flame retardancy KW - Residue analysis KW - Sustainability KW - Waste streams PY - 2025 DO - https://doi.org/10.1177/08927057241297083 SN - 0892-7057 SN - 1530-7980 VL - 38 IS - 6 SP - 2225 EP - 2252 PB - Sage AN - OPUS4-63431 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina T1 - Bio-Based Vitrimers: Cracking the Code of Recyclability, Exchange Reactions and Flame Retardancy N2 - Vitrimers are a promising class of sustainable materials that offer an alternative to traditional epoxy thermosets in line with circular economy principles. Built on covalent adaptive networks (CANs), they can rearrange their chemical bonds in response to external stimuli, giving them properties like recyclability, shape-memory, and self-healing. These materials combine the strength of thermosets with the reprocessability of thermoplastics, making them attractive for next-generation applications. This study focuses on a bio-based vitrimer made from glycerol triglycidyl ether (GTE) and a vanillin-derived imine hardener (VA), which reacts through catalyst-free imine metathesis. To better understand the recyclability mechanisms of such systems, especially the dynamic bond exchange, we apply a comprehensive suite of techniques including dielectric spectroscopy, neutron scattering, mechanical analysis, and calorimetry. By linking molecular dynamics with macroscopic performance, the work aims to support the development of vitrimers as practical, recyclable materials. T2 - EPF2025 - European Polymer Congress CY - Groningen, The Netherlands DA - 22.06.2025 KW - Polymer recycling PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63859 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Sunder, S. A1 - Jauregui Rozo, Maria A1 - Inasu, S. A1 - Meinel, Dietmar A1 - Schartel, Bernhard A1 - Ruckdäschel, H. T1 - Effect of Ammonium Polyphosphate/Silicate Content on the Postfire Mechanics of Epoxy Glass-Fiber Composites Using Facile Chocolate Bar-Inspired Structures N2 - This study investigates the postfire mechanical properties of epoxy glass-fiber reinforced composites (EP GFRCs) using increasing concentrations of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and inorganic silicate (InSi) to modify the char and fire residue. A facile chocolate bar-inspired structure was introduced for fire exposure and subsequent flexural testing of the GFRCs. The resin matrix used here was a diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) resin, cured with dicyandiamide (DICY), and accelerated by Urone. The microstructures of the degraded composites after three-point bending tests, were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray computed tomography (XCT) imaging. A previous study showed that increasing the APP and InSi content significantly enhanced flame retardancy, via improved char formation under fire conditions. However, flexural properties and fire resistance were adversely affected after fire exposure, highlighting a trade-off effect. Fiber breakage and delamination of the composites increased upon failure with increasing APP + InSi content in the composite due to unconsolidated char. The experimental values for the postfire flexural mechanics were in good agreement with the two-layer model proposed in literature. This paper presents a preliminary basis for postfire mechanical testing of epoxy composites for use in fire-safe structures, using a combination of standardized testing norms. KW - Flame retardants KW - Post-fire KW - Epoxy KW - Gass fiber composites KW - Prepregs PY - 2025 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-627176 DO - https://doi.org/10.1002/fam.3280 SN - 0308-0501 SN - 1099-1018 VL - 49 IS - 3 SP - 329 EP - 346 PB - Wiley AN - OPUS4-62717 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Bibinger, J. A1 - Eibl, S. A1 - Gudladt, H.-J. A1 - Schartel, Bernhard A1 - Höfer, P. T1 - Pushing the limits of thermal resistance in nanocomposites: A comparative study of carbon black and nanotube modifications N2 - Enhancing the thermal resistance of carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) with flame retardants or coatings often leads to increased weight and reduced mechanical integrity. To address these challenges, this study introduces an innovative approach for developing nanocomposites using carbon-based nanoparticles, while preserving the structural lightweight properties. For this, carbon black particles (CBPs) up to 10% and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) up to 1.5% were incorporated into the RTM6/G939 composite material. The obtained samples were then analyzed for their properties and heat resistance under one-sided thermal loading at a heat flux of 50 kW/m2. Results demonstrate that integrating these particles improves heat conduction without compromising the material’s inherent advantages. As a result, thermo-induced damage and the resulting loss of mechanical strength are delayed by 17% with CBPs and 7% with CNTs compared to the unmodified material. Thereby, the thermal behavior can be accurately modeled by a straightforward approach, using calibrated, effective measurements of the nanoparticles in the polymer matrix rather than relying on theoretical assumptions. This approach thus provides a promising methode to characterize and improve thermal resistance without significant trade-offs. KW - Nanomaterial KW - Cabon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) KW - Carbon black (CB) KW - Carbon nanotube (CNT) KW - Improving heat conduction KW - Prediction thermal properties PY - 2025 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-628632 DO - https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15070546 SN - 2079-4991 VL - 15 IS - 7 SP - 1 EP - 23 PB - MDPI CY - Basel AN - OPUS4-62863 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Hupp, Vitus A1 - Schartel, Bernhard A1 - Flothmeier, K. A1 - Hartwig, A. T1 - Flame Retarded Adhesive Tapes and Their Influence on the Fire Behavior of Bonded Parts N2 - Pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes are used in automotives, railway vehicles and construction, where flame retardancy is of major importance. This is why industrial applicants often buy, and industrial tape manufacturers often produce, flame-retardant adhesive tapes, advertised for their good flammability characteristics. Yet, how flame-retardant tapes influence the fire behavior of bonded materials is a rather open question. To investigate this issue, three different substrates were bonded, using eight double-sided adhesive tapes containing two different carriers and two different flame retardants. The bonded substrates were compared to their monolithic counterparts in terms of flammability, fire behavior and fire stability. The fire behavior of adhesive tape bonded materials differed significantly from the monolithic substrates. The usage of different adhesive tapes let to different burning behavior of the bonded materials mainly due to different carrier systems. In contrast, the implementation of flame retardant into the adhesive had rather minor or no effect on the burning behavior of the bonded substrates despite their positive effect on the flammability of the free-standing tape. The carrier changed the HRR curve in the cone calorimeter and was able to both, reduce and increase fire hazards. Using the carrier with the better fire performance can lower the fire growth rate by 20%, the peak of heat release rate by 27%, and the maximum average rate of heat emission by 30% in cone calorimeter tests. Overall, the fire behavior of bonded materials is a complex interaction between substrate, adhesive, and carrier, and depends on the fire scenario the materials are exposed to. KW - Pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes KW - Bonded materials KW - Fire behaviour KW - Fire resistance KW - Flame retardant KW - Cone calorimeter PY - 2025 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-626006 DO - https://doi.org/10.1007/s10694-024-01637-2 SN - 1572-8099 SN - 0015-2684 VL - 61 IS - 2 SP - 729 EP - 749 PB - Springer Nature AN - OPUS4-62600 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - 1 + 1 ≠ 2 – Laminate Materials Meet Flame Retardancy N2 - Main message: Fire tests monitor the specific response of defined test specimens but are used to assess materials’ fire risks. The weakness of this simplification becomes obvious for laminate materials. The talk delivers inspiring food for thought in discussing the fire behaviour of laminates. The fire behaviour must not be expected to be a simple superposition. The design of laminate can generate fire risks as well as give birth to flame retardancy. Introduction Bench-scale fire testing monitors the reaction-to-fire response of well-defined test specimens in certain fire scenarios. Results are often discussed as kind of material properties; indeed, the fire risks of materials are assessed. The weakness of this simplifying concept becomes obvious when it comes to investigating material systems such as all kind of laminate materials. The talk delivers inspiring food for thought sketching the complex and sometimes surprising fire behaviour of laminates. Experimental The polymer analysis, thermal analysis, and investigation of fire behaviour were performed according to the state of the art, mostly in accordance with the ISO standards. We fulfil high quality standards in terms of maintenance, calibration, participation in round robins, and so on. Work steps such as compounding of the materials or injection moulding of test specimen were outsourced or done with partners that have the relevant core competence. The presentation is based on the conclusions and concrete results of projects performed in the group of the author, whose experimental is described in the corresponding scientific papers in detail.[1-3] Results and Discussion Examples show that the fire behaviour of laminates must not be expected to be a simple superposition of the fire behaviour of the individual materials. Indeed, laminate effects can be crucial and influence the flammability relevantly. The design of the laminate can generate fire risks as well as give birth to synergistic flame retardancy. Veneered wood, lacquered products, or foil laminated materials are sketched to illustrate the topic with its potential and challenges. Glued samples consisting of two plates of the same material are discussed to generate some basic understanding as well as to investigate the fire behaviour of glued materials. The impact of the glue line on the burning behaviour of different polymeric materials such as bisphenol A polycarbonate, polymethylmethacrylate, and wood differs remarkably.[2] Further, the role of the glue including but not limited to using flame retarded glues is scrutinized. Making the best out of this understanding we have proposed to concentrate flame retardancy in the top layer.[1, 3] To achieve optimum flame-retardant effect or flame retardancy without disturbing the property profile of the core, flame retardants are strategically concentrated in the surface layer of thermoplastic materials with a laminate structure. Several systems increasing the charring and forming a residual protective layer are identified showing a synergistic effect compared to homogenously flame retarded test specimen. This research presented a promising solution for reducing the use of flame retardants without sacrificing fire performance or mechanical properties, offering significant advantages for industrial applications. T2 - 20th European Meeting on Fire Retardant Polymeric Materials (FRPM2025) CY - Madrid, Spain DA - 03.06.2025 KW - Fire behaviour of laminates KW - Flame retardancy by laminate design PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63394 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - Fire Retardancy Featuring Sustainability: Food for Thought between Fake Fiction and Future N2 - MAIN MESSAGE: Sustainability, or in other words, exploiting environmental conservation for the economic welfare and prosperity for all, would revolutionise the plastics industry were it to become predominant practice as a linear, fossil-fuel–based economy is switched to a carbon circular economy. Food for though is given by dint of a critical overview of the current trends in sustainable flame-retardant polymeric materials. STARTING POINT AND INTRODUCTION: Transforming the plastics industry into a carbon circular economy over the next 30 years requires an immediate revolution entailing the development of cutting-edge materials and the planning of future industrial production plants. Hence, the innovative field of flame-retardant polymeric materials for electrical engineering, construction, or materials used in transportation should lend its strength to drive this challenge. Visionary solutions are proposed to inspire us, while the implementation of economically feasible concepts can take us forward into the future. A critical and structured overview of current trends towards sustainable, flame-retardant polymeric materials is presented, using examples from the literature and by sketching our own projects performed in recent years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: This overview of current trends towards producing sustainable, flame-retardant polymeric materials is presented, selecting outstanding and representative examples from the literature and sketching main points of our own projects performed in this field in recent years. The examples are structured along a common theme leading from the use of old and new natural materials with some intrinsic flame retardancy, via flame-retardant biopolymers and biocomposites, to using renewable sources for flame retardants with the objective of exploiting natural sources available as industrial waste streams. Natural flame retardants and adjuvants are highlighted, although the status of most may be assessed as merely motivating our vision. However, some of these visionary approaches such as discussing sustainable flame retardants for poly(limonene carbonate), a polymer synthesised from renewable waste and CO2, or wastewater phosphorus enriched micro algae as a sustainable flame retardant in polylactide are rather innovative when achieving a surprising high technological readiness level or providing a comprehensive solution for several urgent demands at once. Further, there are natural material streams finding their way into polymer mass production as fillers, adjuvants, polymers, or renewable educt sources. Natural substances originating from industrial waste streams open the door to sustainable solutions, because they are often available at low cost and avoid competition for land with farming or virgin forests. Aside from this main topic, remarks will address the recycling of flame-retarded polymeric materials; flame retardant vitrimers are mentioned as potential materials for recyclable thermosets. At the end of the day, only convincing property profiles will prevail both for exploiting renewable sources and circular design, including cost effectiveness, sufficient availability, consistent quality, processibility, mechanical properties, and flame retardancy. However, sustainability must not be merely tolerated as an additional demand, but should instead be recognized as a solution, because sustainability aspires to ensure our economic welfare now and in the future. T2 - Interflam 2025 CY - Royal Holloway, Egham, UK DA - 30.06.2025 KW - Biocomposites KW - Sustainability KW - Renewable KW - Bio wastefibres KW - Circular economy KW - Phosphorus flame retardants PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63671 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Jauregui Rozo, Maria A1 - Sunder, S. A1 - Inasu, S. A1 - Meinel, Dietmar A1 - Ruckdäschel, H. A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - Weaving Through Fire and Force: Fire Behavior and Fire Stability of Unidirectional, Bidirectional, and Woven Roving Glass-Fiber Composites N2 - This study systematically investigates the transfer of flame retardants (FRs) from epoxy resins to composites. The flame-retardant composites are formulated using bisphenol A diglycidyl ether as the resin and dicyandiamide as the hardener, reinforced with glass fibers (GFs) using various textile architectures: unidirectional (UD), bidirectional (BD), and woven rovings (WR). These composites are evaluated using bench-scale fire stability tests and cone calorimeter experiments to assess critical parameters, including the temperature at failure, time to failure, and fire behavior. Among the tested configurations, UD-GFs demonstrate superior flame retardancy, fire stability, flammability, and mechanical performance, attributed to their higher residue yield, forming a more efficient protective char layer. However, the addition of FRs is limited by their impact on the material's mechanical properties. When the FR content increases to 30 and 50 wt.% of the resin, the composites exhibit a decrease in mechanical performance, adversely affecting both time to failure and temperature at failure. While adding FRs reduces the risk of fire propagation, it does not substantially enhance fire stability or mechanical performance. KW - Fire Resistance KW - Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites KW - Fire Stability KW - Glass Fibers KW - Fire Behavior PY - 2025 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-631220 SN - 1438-7492 SN - 1439-2054 VL - 310 IS - 5 SP - 2400432 PB - Wiley VHC-Verlag AN - OPUS4-63122 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - Fire Retardancy Featuring Sustainability: Food for Thought between Fake Fiction and Future N2 - Sustainability, or in other words, exploiting resources under the terms of environmental conservation for the economic welfare and prosperity continuously over time, would revolutionise the plastics industry were it to become predominant practice as a linear, fossil-fuel–based economy is switched to a carbon circular economy. Food for though is given by dint of a critical overview of the current trends and mainly by sketching our own key projects performed in the field of sustainable flame-retardant polymeric materials in the recent years. T2 - Interflam 2025 CY - London, United Kingdom DA - 30.06.2025 KW - Biocomposites KW - Sustainability KW - Renewable KW - Bio wastefibres KW - Fire Behavior PY - 2025 VL - 1 SP - 187 EP - 190 PB - Interscience Communications Ltd AN - OPUS4-63681 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Dey, R. A1 - Dudziak, Mateusz A1 - Prescher, A. A1 - Kreitsmann, T. A1 - Zhang, K. A1 - Posten, C. A1 - Thomson, C. A1 - Schartel, Bernhard A1 - Ullrich, M. S. A1 - Thomson, L. T1 - Sustainable Flame-Retardant Poly Lactic AcidBiocomposites Reinforced with Polyphosphate-EnrichedMicroalgae: Unlocking the Potential of Hyper-Compensation N2 - This study examines the dual benefits of microalgae cultivation for wastewatertreatment and the enhancement of polylactic acid-based biocomposites. UsingDesmodesmus sp. in a photobioreactor, both batch and continuous operationsachieve total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) removal rates of up to99.9%, maintaining TN and TP levels below 0.02 mg L−1 in the effluent, aligningwith European discharge standards. Continuous cultivation increases biomassproductivity from 0.102 to 0.43 g L−1 day−1 , a 322% improvement over batchoperations. Nutrient starvation followed by reintroduction to nutrient-richwastewater induces hyper-compensation luxury uptake, with P-enrichedcells accumulating 1.33% intracellular P within six hours — 21% higherthan natural accumulation. The results reveal that luxury phosphorus uptakein microalgae follows a triphasic system of uptake and storage, challengingthe previously suggested biphasic model. When incorporated into Poly lacticacid (PLA), the biomass enhances versatility, offering potential replacementof inorganic P in industrial applications, particularly flame retardants.Pyrolysis and cone calorimetry confirm the thermal and fire-retardantbenefits, with a 20% reduction in peak heat release rate and increased charyield. This work highlights microalgae’s role in sustainable biocomposites,supporting wastewater treatment, nutrient recovery, and CO2 sequestration. KW - biocomposites KW - biopolymers KW - Flame-retardant KW - Hyper compensation KW - Phycoremediation KW - Wastewater treatment PY - 2025 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-640408 DO - https://doi.org/10.1002/adsu.202500251 SN - 2366-7486 VL - 9 IS - 8 SP - 1 EP - 11 PB - Wiley VHC-Verlag AN - OPUS4-64040 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Wagner, Jan T1 - This is the Way: An Evidence Based Route to Phytic-acid-based Flame Retardant Poly(lactide acid) N2 - Main message: This study provides an evidence-based route to flame retard poly (lactide acid) (PLA) with phytic acid (Phyt)-based flame retardants (FR). Phyt was prepared with lignin (Lig) and expandable graphite (EG). Three amine salts (arginine (Arg), piperazine (Pip), melamine (Mel)) were also synthesized with Phyt. Findings include UL 94 V0 classification, limited oxygen index (LOI) = 43.7 vol% and reduced total heat released (THR), while molecular weight (MW) was not affected. Combinations lead to the most effective FR. Introduction: As demand for biobased polymers increases, biobased FRs remain scarce in the market. With 28 wt.% P, Phyt is promising to be a biobased FR, but Phyt efficiency as a FR needs to be improved. [1] Furthermore, as a strong acid, it esterifies and hydrolysis PLAs backbone. With the combinations proposed in this study, processability and MW in PLA compounds were untouched, while FR performance of Phyt was enhanced. Experimental: Compounds analyzed in this study were: PLA, PLA Lig, PLA EG, PLA PhytLig, PLA PhytEG, PLA Mel, PLA PhytArg, PLA PhytPip, PLA PhytMel, PLA PhytMel Lig and PLA PhytMel EG. Addition of Phyt based FR was 16.7 wt.%, Lig and EG 10wt.%. Compounds were processed with twin screw extrusion, injection molding and hot press. Analysis was done with size exclusion tomography, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), tensile strength, cone calorimeter, UL 94, LOI and thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) combined with Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Residues were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Results and Discussion: To synthesize the FR, Lig and Phyt (solved in water) were mixed and dried. A solid material formed, which was grinded and then compounded with PLA. The same was done with EG. Phyt + Arg/Pip/Mel FR materials were each titrated to a pH of ~4.5, since this pH is known to be least harmful for the PLA backbone. For PhytMel a salt precipitated. PhytPip and PhytArg were dried and a resin-like structure was obtained, which was grinded to a powder. The molar mass distribution of PLA PhytArg (10,000 g/mol – 600,000 g/mol) is similar to PLAs ranging from 15,000 g/mol – 600,000 g/mol. MW distribution from highest to lowest was PLA > PLA PhytArg > PLA PhytMel > PLA PhytMel EG > PLA PhytMel Lig > PLA PhytEG > PLA PhytLig > PLA PhytPip. The reaction between Phyt and Arg/Mel prevents MW decomposition of PLA through a reaction of P acid and NH2 groups. Tensile strength declined to 35.9 MPA for PLA PhytMel and 32.1 MPA for PLA PhytArg, compared to 51.4 MPA for PLA. DSC analysis revealed TG was not affected for the FR compounds: Phyt Lig/EG/Arg/Mel, compared to PLA. PLA PhytMel crystallinity 𝐾∆𝐻𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 was 30%, PLA PhytArg crystallinity was 50%, compared to PLA 𝐾∆𝐻𝑐𝑐 was 46%. Melting peaks were not affected in PLA Phyt Arg/Mel. Flammability investigations lead to results of LOI 25.8 vol%/ UL 94 V2 classification in PLA, PLA PhytArg LOI 43.7 vol%/ UL 94 V2, due to strong dripping as a cooling mode of action. [2] PLA PhytMel burned with intumescent char and LOI 38.2 vol%/ UL 94 V2 was measured. Due to strong melt dripping, PLA PhytPip reached UL 94 V0. TGA revealed increased residue for all FR compounds. When materials were combined in PLA PhytMel EG residue was maximized to 19.9 wt.% (600°C, 𝑁𝑁2 atmosphere). FTIR analysis revealed PO and PH stretching vibrations, indicating radical scavenging. Cone calorimeter investigations of PLA, PLA PhytPip and PLA PhytArg lead to a steep incline in HRR to peak heat release rate (pHRR). Values are provided in Table 1. PLA PhytMel containing compounds exhibited prolonged burning and protective layer. PLA PhytLig, PLA PhytEG, PLA Mel (pHRR >1000) were investigated but proved inferior to PLA PhytMel, PLA PhytMel Lig and PLA PhytMel EG. THR was reduced in all Phyt compounds. Intumescence was observed in all compounds except for PLA Lig, PLA PhytLig and PLA PhytMel Lig. PLA PhytMel EG proved as the most effective compound in fire testing with a firm, coherent and intumescent char structure. This study provides an understanding of Phyt as a FR. It systematically improves Phyts effectiveness and processability in PLA. This evidence T2 - 20th European Meeting on Fire Retardant Polymeric Materials (FRPM2025) CY - Madrid, Spain DA - 03.06.2025 KW - Polylactide acid KW - Intumescence KW - Phosphorous flame retardant KW - Phytic acid PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63395 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Schartel, Bernhard T1 - Flammschutz von Faserverbundwerkstoffen: Grundlagen und Konzepte N2 - Vor allen Kurz- und Lang-Glasfaser-verstärkte, aber auch Carbonfaser verstärkte Faserverbundwerkstoffe werden in Schienenfahrzeugen eingesetzt. Dabei sind die Brandschutzanforderungen entsprechend EN 45545 zu erfüllen. Der Übersichtsvortrag führt in die Grundlagen des Brandverhaltens und des Flammschutzes von Compositen ein. Anhand von eigenen Arbeiten wird verdeutlicht, dass Flammschutz maßgeschneidert für Composite, die Matrix und für den zu bestehenden Brandtest erforderlich ist. T2 - SKZ Fachtagung Faserverbundwerkstoffe im Schienenfahrzeugbau CY - Merseburg, Germany DA - 14.05.2025 KW - Faserverbundwerkstoffe KW - Composite KW - Flammschutz KW - Brandverhalten PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63123 LA - deu AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Chacon Castro, Jose P. T1 - Flame Retardant Polylimonen Carbonate: Material Innovation as a Game Changer N2 - Main message: This research seeks to understand and identify the most promising approaches to enhance the flame resistance of poly(limonene carbonate) (PLimC). Furthermore, the goal is to develop a PLimC-based material that incorporates halogen-free flame retardants (FRs) that are not only highly effective but also environmentally sustainable, contributing to the advancement of greener materials for safer use. Introduction The plastic industry depends on fossil-based materials, causing environmental concerns. PLimC, a sustainable polymer derived from limonene and CO₂ [1], offers a promising alternative. Its use in fire safe applications underscores the need to optimize its performance. This study evaluates halogen free FRs to identify and understand the most promising approaches to enhance PLimC’s flame resistance, aiming to improve fire safety and support eco-friendly material development. Experimental: This study has as its main task to conduct experimental evaluations to analyze the thermal properties, flammability, and fire behavior of each system. Pyrolysis, together with the evolved gases of the samples, were analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis coupled with a FTIR spectrometer. The energy content was determined by using a bomb calorimeter. The flammability of the samples was assessed by the reaction to small flame tests such as the UL 94 burning chamber and limiting oxygen index (LOI). The burning behavior in forced flamed conditions was evaluated using the cone calorimeter. Results and Discussion: Thermal properties were first evaluated to gain a deeper understanding of the pure PLimC thermal stability and fire behavior. This analysis builds on PLimC's structural similarity to polycarbonate (PC), due to its carbonate group, and to polyolefins (PO), due to its aliphatic limonene-derived segment, providing insights into optimizing PLimC for sustainable, fire-safe applications. The initial results, which defined our starting point, showed that the LOI of PLimC was 17.2%, very close to that of PO such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) (~18%). In contrast, PC has a higher LOI of ~24%. Additionally, PLimC did not produce any char (0 wt.-%), similar to PO, whereas PC forms char due to its phenolic structures. The effective heat of combustion of PLimC, measured using bomb calorimetry, was determined to be 31.1 MJ/kg. This value is comparable to that of PC (~30 MJ/kg) but significantly lower than PO (~44 MJ/kg). These findings, which demonstrated similarities to both PO and PC, prompted the evaluation of various commercially available FRs at standard market concentrations. Four halogen-free FR systems were chosen for evaluation: 1. mixture of APP (20 wt.-%) + pentaerythritol (10 wt.-%) as an intumescent system [PLimC / APP / Penta], 2. mixture of the phosphorus compound PX200® (16 wt.-%) + PTFE (0.4 wt.-%) as antidripping [PLimC / PhosC / PTFE], 3. metal hydroxide ATH (50 wt.-%) [PLimC / ATH], and the potassium sulfonate salt Bayowet® (0.4 wt.-%) [PLimC / SulfS]. The concentrations were decided according to the standards used in the industry for polyolefins (system 1 and 3), the mixture polycarbonate / ABS (system 2) and polycarbonates (system 4). PLimC has the usual behavior of a non-charring specimen (fast burning and high peak of heat release). ATH proved to be the most effective flame retardant, achieving the biggest reductions in the effective heat of combustion (EHC) and total heat evolved (THE), as demonstrated by cone calorimeter measurements. Additionally, ATH achieved the highest increase in the LOI (17.1% —> 26.0%). With these results, we understood that the FRs commonly used with polyolefins (at concentrations standard in the industry) exhibit similar behavior in terms of flammability and flame retardancy when applied to PLimC. Although ATH has proven to be an effective flame retardant for PLimC, offering a sustainable solution due to its abundance, non-toxicity, and low environmental impact, we aim to explore bio-based flame retardants to further enhance the material’s sustainability. Since phytic acid salts [2] and lignin [3] have demonstrated flame retardant efficacy in polyolefins, we believe these compounds could also perform well in our system. Phytic acid salts are particularly promising due to their high phosphorus content—and in some cases, nitrogen—which promotes char formation and enhances flame retardancy. Lignin’s unique ability to promote charring could significantly improve flame retardancy, due to the fact that PLimC like polyolefins, lacks inherent char formation. By integrating these bio-based flame retardants, we move closer to developing a fully sustainable material that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, contributing to a greener and more resilient future. T2 - 20th European Meeting on Fire Retardant Polymeric Materials (FRPM2025) CY - Madrid, Spain DA - 03.06.2025 KW - Poly(limonene carbonate) KW - Sustainability KW - Halogen free flame retardants PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63397 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Sałasińska, K. T1 - Bio-sourced Flame Retardant System for Engineering Plastics N2 - Main message: Intumescent flame retardant degradation products react with the lignocellulose hydroxyl groups by esterification, causing enhanced effectiveness in char formation [1]. The aim of this work is to prepare polyamide 11 with lower flammability by modifying it with a plant-based flame retardant system. An innovation is the thermal modification of plant raw materials to establish bio-sourced flame-retardant systems dedicated to engineering materials. Introduction: Using plant fillers to modify engineering materials raises concerns due to too low thermal stability and problems during processing. However, substances participating in char formation, such as cellulose and lignin, have higher decomposition temperatures than the processing temperature of most engineering plastics. Appropriate preparation of lignocellulosic materials through modification by thermal methods will enable their partial decomposition in controlled conditions and eliminate components with low thermal stability. Results and Discussion: For PA11, the heat release (HRR) curve is characterized by two peaks (Fig.1), with a maximum value at the end of burning. The flame retardant systems caused the curves to flatten, which was especially visible for samples with the highest sunflower husk share. The maximum values of heat release rate (pHRR) for samples with FRs varied from 991 to 626 kW/m2 and were much lower compared to PA11 (2152 kW/m2) and MPP (1234 kW/m2). All samples with FRs ignited much earlier than the reference materials, especially compared to unmodified polymer (Tab.1). The maximum average rate of heat emission (MARHE), used to forecast flame spread, decreased compared to PA11 (maximum by 30%) and slightly to MPP. Decreases were also noted in the case of total heat emission (THE), corresponding to the total heat released at the end of flame combustion. The values range from 112 to 127, and depending on the series, an increase (SH) or decrease (SHT) with the growth of the amount of bio-based components was observed. The reduction in THE follows from incomplete combustion as an effect of char forming or reduced combustion efficiency [2]. Char formation was proved by an increase in the yield of residue , while a slight decrease in the effective heat of combustion (EHC) suggests activity in the gas phase. Smoke emission was assessed by specific extinction area (SEA). The SEA reduction was noted only for the MPP sample, and introducing sunflower husks increased the smoke released. T2 - 20th European Meeting on Fire Retardant Polymeric Materials (FRPM2025) CY - Madrid, Spain DA - 03.06.2025 KW - Bio-sourced flame retardant systems KW - Engineering plastics KW - Cone calorimetry PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63398 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Sanchez-Olivares, G. T1 - Fire Behaviour and Viscoelasticity of Sustainable Thermoplastic Polyurethane Multicomponent Systems N2 - Main message: An interesting influence of viscoelastic properties on fire behavior of multicomponent systems based on thermoplastic polyurethane using industrial-waste leather fibers was observed. A detailed investigation on rheological properties, morphology, pyrolysis, flammability and forced flaming combustion highlighted that fire retardancy is best achieved when the multicomponent systems exhibit a predominant elastic behavior. Introduction: Multicomponent systems represent a sustainable alternative to traditional high-loaded flame retardant polymer materials, particularly in local areas where industrial-waste fibers are a problem.The final properties of those systems greatly depend on the melt blending process [1-2]. In this work,thermoplastic polyurethane multicomponent systems using industrial-waste leather fibers and a commercial flame-retardant additive were produced and investigated. Results and Discussion: According to rheological measurements, the viscoelastic behavior of the TPU multicomponent systems depends on the melt blending process conditions. Systems produced under low blending temperature profile and high rotational speed (TPU/5LF/5APP_T1/V3) display a predominant viscous behavior, meanwhile TPU/5LF/5APP_T1/V1 and TPU/5LF/5APP_T2/V2 samples, exhibit a more elastic one. The combination of LF and APP at low loadings (5 phr each) results in an important reduction on the peak of heat release rate (pHRR), total heat evolved (THE) and total smoke production (TSP) regarding to pure TPU. The UL94 vertical test pointed out that multicomponent systems with predominant elastic behavior (TPU/5LF/5APP_T1/V1 and TPU/5LF/5APP_T2/V2 samples) reached the V-0 rating, meanwhile for the system with the most viscous tendency (TPU/5LF/5APP_T1/V3), non-rating is obtained. Acknowledgement: Part of this work was funded by the Consejo Nacional de Humanidades Ciencias y Tecnologías (CONAHCYT), Mexico, grant number CF-2023-I-865. T2 - 20th European Meeting on Fire Retardant Polymeric Materials (FRPM2025) CY - Madrid, Spain DA - 03.06.2025 KW - TPU KW - Fire behavior KW - Viscoelastic properties KW - Leather fibers KW - Industrial wastes PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63400 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Dudziak, Mateusz T1 - Synergistic effect of commercial and natural flame retardants in polylactide biocomposites N2 - Main message: We propose a combination of natural biomass from algae species Desmodesmus sp.along with commercially available flame retardant Melapur200 (melamine polyphosphate) in different mass ratios. We have successfully demonstrated that the use of both of them in PLA matrix biocomposites shows a synergistic flame retardant effect. Introduction: Poly(lactic acid) (PLA), a biodegradable polymer produced from renewable resources such as corn starch and sugarcane, is increasingly being used as a substitute for traditional petrochemical-based polymers in various commercial applications. However, its flammability characteristics need improvement to enable its use as a technical polymer. Based on previous successful experiments on PLA biocomposites with phosphor-enriched algae as filler [1], it was even mandatory to continue with enhancement of PLA flame retardancy. Therefore, tests for PLA biocomposites with P-algae containing melamine polyphosphate at different mass ratios were performed. Pyrolysis, reaction to small fire and fire behavior tests were carried out. Results and Discussion: Thermal stability analyses showed that all composites decompose earlier at lower temperature than pure PLA to a small extent. The evolved gases analysis revealed the release of ammonia and phosphates for the composites tested. PCFC analysis showed the greatest decrease in pHRR for the sample containing Melapur200/Algae (Figure 1A). Similarly, in the fire behaviour analysis, the best result was obtained for the sample containing a mixture of Melapur200 and Algae (Figure 1B). Satisfying results were obtained in the tests of reaction to small flame, where all the samples passed the classification from V-2 to V-0 (in the UL 94 test) and the oxygen index for the best sample was 27.4 +- 0.2%. When only Melapur200 or algae are added separately, a slight flame retardant effect is visible, however if both materials are added in suitable mixtures to the polymer, a synergistic effect is observable. In some cases, it can even be observed that the synergistic effect has surpassed expectations from the superposition. In conclusion, the combination of Melapur200 together with microalgae gives satisfying flame retardant effects for PLA biocomposites. Acknowledgement: The authors thank Dr. Georgios Mourgas (Tecnaro GmbH), and Dr. Michael Schweizer (Tecnaro GmbH) for their contributions to conceptualizing the project, raising the grant, and supporting this work. Thanks to Dr. Robert Gleuwitz (formerly of the BAM), Dr. Claudia Thomsen (iSeaMC GmbH) and Prof. Dr. Laurenz Thomsen (formerly of Jacobs University Bremen, now University of Gothenburg), Thanks to the financial support of the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung – BMBF: KMU-innovativ: Biooekonomie 031B1289B T2 - 20th European Meeting on Fire Retardant Polymeric Materials (FRPM2025) CY - Madrid, Spain DA - 03.06.2025 KW - Polylactide KW - Melamine polyphosphate KW - Microalgae KW - Synergism PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63399 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - CONF A1 - Chacon Castro, Jose P. T1 - Flame retardant poly(limonene carbonate): material innovation as a game changer N2 - The global plastic industry relies on fossil-based materials, presenting significant environmental challenges. Poly(limonene carbonate) (PLimC), a sustainable alternative, is made from two renewable monomers: limonene oxide, derived from non-food sources, and CO₂, positioning it as a promising material for applications requiring flame retardants (FRs) to meet fire safety standards. Thermal properties were initially assessed to better understand the thermal stability and fire behavior of PLimC. This analysis builds on PLimC's unique structural characteristics: its carbonate group resembling polycarbonate (PC) and its aliphatic limonene-derived segment resembling polyolefins (PO). The initial results revealed similarities to both PO and PC, prompting the evaluation of various commercially available flame retardants (FRs) at standard market concentrations. Four halogen-free FR systems were chosen for evaluation, with the conclusion that ATH proved to be the most effective FR, decreasing the heat release rate and the total heat evolved. With these results, we understood that the FRs commonly used with polyolefins (at concentrations standard in the industry) exhibit similar behavior in terms of flammability and flame retardancy when applied to PLimC. While ATH has proven to be an effective FR for PLimC, we aim to investigate bio-based alternatives to further improve the material's sustainability. Phytic acid salts and lignin have shown excellent FR performance in PO, and we believe these compounds could achieve similar success in our system. Their integration could bring us closer to achieving a fully sustainable material that aligns with current environmental goals. T2 - EPF European Polymer Congress 2025 CY - Groningen, Netherlands DA - 22.06.2025 KW - Poly(limonene carbonate) KW - Sustainability KW - Flame retardancy KW - CO2 as monomer KW - Fire Behavior PY - 2025 AN - OPUS4-63668 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Schilling, Markus A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Marschall, Niklas A1 - Meinel, Dietmar A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Relation of craze to crack length during slow crack growth phenomena in high‐density polyethylene N2 - The craze‐crack mechanism occurring in high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) causing slow crack growth and environmental stress cracking is investigated in detail with respect to the relation of crack length and the related craze zone. This is essential for the understanding of the resulting features of the formed fracture surface and their interpretation in the context of the transition from crack propagation to ductile shear deformation. It turns out that an already formed craze zone does not inevitably result in formation of a propagating crack, but could also undergo ductile failure. For the examination, the full notch creep test (FNCT) was employed with a subsequent advanced fracture surface analysis that was performed using various imaging techniques: light microscopy, laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray micro computed tomography scan. FNCT specimens were progressively damaged for increasing durations under standard test conditions applying Arkopal, the standard surfactant solution, and biodiesel as test media were used to analyze the stepwise growth of cracks and crazes. From considerations based on well‐established fracture mechanics approaches, a theoretical correlation between the length of the actual crack and the length of the preceding craze zone was established that could be evidenced and affirmed by FNCT fracture surface analysis. Moreover, the yield strength of a HDPE material exposed to a certain medium as detected by a classic tensile test was found to be the crucial value of true stress to induce the transition from crack propagation due to the craze‐crack mechanism to shear deformation during FNCT measurements. Highlights - Progress of crack formation in high‐density polyethylene is analyzed by different imaging techniques - Determined growth rates depend on distinction between craze zone and crack - The ratio of the present crack to the anteceding craze zone is validated theoretically - The transition from crack propagation to ductile shear deformation is identified - An already formed craze zone may still fail by ductile mechanisms KW - Craze-crack mechanism KW - Environmental stress cracking (ESC) KW - Full notch creep test (FNCT) KW - Laser scanning microscopy (LSM) KW - Slow crack growth (SCG) KW - X-ray computed tomography (CT) PY - 2024 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-601831 DO - https://doi.org/10.1002/pen.26698 SN - 1548-2634 VL - 64 IS - 6 SP - 2387 EP - 2403 PB - Wiley AN - OPUS4-60183 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Emamverdi, Farnaz A1 - Huang, J. A1 - Mosane Razavi, Negar A1 - Bojdys, M. J. A1 - Forster, A. B. A1 - Budd, P. M. A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Molecular Mobility and Gas Transport Properties of Mixed Matrix Membranes Based on PIM‑1 and a Phosphinine Containing Covalent Organic Framework N2 - Polymers with intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) are gaining attention as gas separation membranes. Nevertheless, they face limitations due to pronounced physical aging. In this study a covalent organic framework containing λ5-phosphinine moieties, CPSF-EtO were incorporated as a nanofiller (concentration range 0-10 wt%) into a PIM-1 matrix forming dense films with a thickness of ca. 100 μm. The aim of the investigation was to investigate possible enhancements of gas transport properties and mitigating effects on physical aging. The incorporation of the nanofiller occurred on aggregate level with domains up to 100 nm as observed by T-SEM and confirmed by X-ray scattering. Moreover, the X-ray data show that the structure of the microporous network of the PIM-1 matrix is changed by the nanofiller. As the molecular mobility is fundamental for gas transport as well as for physical aging, the study includes dielectric investigations of pure PIM-1 and PIM-1/CPSF-EtO mixed matrix membranes to establish a correlation between the molecular mobility and the gas transport properties. Using the time-lag method the gas permeability and the permselectivity were determined for N2, O2, CH4 and CO2 for samples with variation in filler content. A significant increase in the permeability of CH4 and CO2 (50 % increase compared to pure PIM-1) was observed for a concentration of 5 wt% of the nanofiller. Furthermore, the most pronounced change in the permselectivity was found for the gas pair CO2/N2 at a filler concentration of 7 wt%. KW - Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity KW - Nanocomposites PY - 2024 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-595031 DO - https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.macromol.3c02419 SN - 0024-9297 VL - 57 IS - 4 SP - 1829 EP - 1845 PB - ACS Publications AN - OPUS4-59503 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Thuy, Maximilian A1 - Niebergall, Ute A1 - Oehler, H. A1 - Alig, I. A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Damaging effect of admixtures used in crop protection products on high density polyethylene packaging material N2 - The phenomenon of environmental stress cracking is still a major issue in materials engineering as well as from a scientific perspective. Especially in the case of packaging materials made of high-density polyethylene, assessing the potential of premature damage due to environmental stress cracking is complex because of the large number of components in possible liquid filling goods. As a first guideline, the well-known effect of detergents and dispersants is usually considered, but the interplay with other components, such as organic solvents is often unknown. Particularly challenging in this respect are crop protection products, consisting of several different admixtures in addition to the biologically active ingredients. This study is based on two model liquids representing these admixtures that were established for testing in this context. The model liquids as well as their constituting components were used as liquid media in the Full Notch Creep Test to characterize the environmental stress cracking behavior of a typical high-density polyethylene. Complementary to the time-to failure of a notched specimen obtained from these tests, the crack opening was monitored optically, and the fracture surface was analyzed post-failure by laser scanning microscopy as well as scanning electron microscopy. Based on the results, the effect of various surfactants as well as the influence of organic solvents on environmental stress cracking are discussed. KW - Environmental stress cracking KW - High-density polyethylene KW - Crop protection products KW - Full notch creep test KW - Fracture surface analysis KW - Crack opening displacement PY - 2022 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-554631 DO - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymertesting.2022.107672 SN - 0142-9418 VL - 114 SP - 1 EP - 16 PB - Elsevier Ltd. CY - Amsterdam AN - OPUS4-55463 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Strommer, Bettina A1 - Schulze, Dietmar A1 - Schartel, Bernhard A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - Networking Skills: The Effect of Graphene on the Crosslinking of Natural Rubber Nanocomposites with Sulfur and Peroxide Systems N2 - Tailored crosslinking in elastomers is crucial for their technical applications. The incorporation of nanoparticles with high surface-to-volume ratios not only leads to the formation of physical networks and influences the ultimate performance of nanocomposites, but it also affects the chemical crosslinking reactions. The influence of few-layer graphene (FLG) on the crosslinking behavior of natural rubber is investigated. Four different curing systems, two sulfur-based with different accelerator-to-sulfur ratios, and two peroxide-based with different peroxide concentrations, are combined with different FLG contents. Using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), vulcametry (MDR) and swelling measurements, the results show an accelerating effect of FLG on the kinetics of the sulfur-based curing systems, with an exothermic reaction peak in DSC shifted to lower temperatures and lower scorch and curing times in the MDR. While a higher accelerator-to-sulfur ratio in combination with FLG leads to reduced crosslinking densities, the peroxide crosslinkers are hardly affected by the presence of FLG. The good agreement of crosslink densities obtained from the swelling behavior confirms the suitability of vulcameter measurements for monitoring the complex vulcanization process of such nanocomposite systems in a simple and efficient way. The reinforcing effect of FLG shows the highest relative improvements in weakly crosslinked nanocomposites. KW - Nanocomposite KW - Elastomers KW - Graphene KW - Crosslinking KW - Network KW - Rubber KW - Vulcanization PY - 2022 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-560409 DO - https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14204363 VL - 14 IS - 20 PB - MDPI AN - OPUS4-56040 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Strommer, Bettina A1 - Schulze, Dietmar A1 - Schartel, Bernhard A1 - Böhning, Martin T1 - The quantification of anisotropy in graphene/natural rubber nanocomposites: Evaluation of the aspect ratio, concentration, and crosslinking N2 - In the processing of nanocomposites, high shear stresses at elevated tempera-tures orient two-dimensional nanoparticles like graphene. This orientationleads to anisotropic mechanical, thermal or barrier properties of the nanocom-posite. This anisotropy is addressed in this study by comparing graphene (few-layer graphene, FLG) with a nanoscaled carbon black (nCB) at a filler contentof 3 phr, by varying the vulcanization, and by comparing different FLG con-tents. Transmission electron microscopy gives insight into the qualitative ori-entation in the nanocomposite with FLG or nCB. The storage moduli paralleland normal to the orientation reveal the direction dependency of reinforce-ment through dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Dimensional swellingmeasurements show a restriction of the expansion parallel to the FLG orienta-tion, and an increased expansion normal to the orientation. The vulcanizationsystem and crosslinking determine the respective level of property values, andhigher crosslinking densities increase the anisotropy in DMA resulting invalues of up to 2.9 for the quantified anisotropy factor. With increasing FLGcontent, the anisotropy increases. A comparison of the results reveals swellingmeasurements as the most suitable method for the determination of anisot-ropy. Compared to recent literature, the presented processing induces higheranisotropy, leading to higher reinforcing effects in the direction of orientation KW - Natural rubber KW - Graphene KW - Nanocomposite KW - Mechanical properties KW - Swelling PY - 2023 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-571522 DO - https://doi.org/10.1002/app.53753 SN - 1097-4628 VL - 140 IS - 16 SP - 1 EP - 15 PB - Wiley online library CY - Hoboken, New Jersey (USA) AN - OPUS4-57152 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Emamverdi, Farnaz A1 - Huang, J. A1 - Szymoniak, Paulina A1 - Bojdys, M. J. A1 - Böhning, Martin A1 - Schönhals, Andreas T1 - Structure and molecular mobility of phosphinine-based covalent organic frameworks – glass transition of amorphous COFs N2 - Two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (COFs) based on phosphinine and thiophene building blocks have been synthesized with two different side groups. The materials are denoted as CPSF-MeO and CPSF-EtO where CxxF correspond to the covalent framework, whereas P and S are related to heteroatoms phosphorous and sulfur. MeO and EtO indicate the substituents, i.e. methoxy and ethoxy. Their morphologies were studied by scanning electron microcopy and X-ray scattering. The absence of crystalline reflexes in the X-ray pattern reveal that both materials are amorphous and can be considered as glasses. Furthermore, N2 adsorption measurements indicate substantial Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area values pointing to the formation of three-dimensional pores by stacking of the aromatic 2D layer. An analysis of the porosity of both COFs showed a mean radius of the pores to be of ca. 4 nm, consistent with their chemical structure. The COFs form nanoparticles with a radius of around 100 nm. The thermal behavior of the COFs was further investigated by fast scanning calorimetry. These investigations showed that both COFs undergo a glass transition. The glass transition temperature of CPSF-EtO is found to be ca. 100 K higher than that for CPSF-MeO. This large difference in the glass transition is discussed to be due to a change in the interaction of the COF sheets induced by the longer ethoxy group. It might be assumed that for CPSF-EtO more individual COF sheets assemble to larger stacks than for CPSF-MeO. This agrees with the much larger surface area value found for CPSF-EtO compared to CPSF-MeO. To corroborate the results obtained be fast scanning calorimetry dielectric measurements were conducted which confirm the occurrence of a dynamic glass transition. The estimated temperature dependence of the relaxation rates of the dielectric relaxation and their absolute values agrees well with the data obtained by fast scanning calorimetry. Considering the fragility approach to the glass transition, it was further found that CPSF-MeO is a fragile glass former whereas CPSF-EtO behaves as a strong glass forming material. This difference in the fragility points also to distinct differences in the interaction between the 2D COF molecules in both materials. KW - Covalent Organic frameworks PY - 2024 UR - https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:kobv:b43-596770 DO - https://doi.org/10.1039/d3ma01123b SP - 1 EP - 10 PB - Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) AN - OPUS4-59677 LA - eng AD - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany ER -