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The feasibility of self-healing epoxy matrices using the same chemistry as the matrix material, namely a standard epoxy-amine system, is demonstrated. The two-component self-healing system is encapsulated in core-shell structures using standard in situ curing in a stirred emulsion and a novel microfluidic encapsulation technique for the epoxy monomer and the amine hardener, respectively. The recovery of fracture toughness after room temperature healing is above 50%, and increases to 100% when shape memory alloy wires are combined with a low temperature cure of the matrix to enhance crack closure. This healing ability is also preserved for higher curing temperatures, demonstrating the potential of this novel approach.
Véronique Michaud, Valentin Rougier
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