Not So Smooth After All: Uncovering the Hidden Properties of Deconstructible DCPD Thermoset Plastics

Lum, Andrew

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/117897 Copy

Description

Title

Not So Smooth After All: Uncovering the Hidden Properties of Deconstructible DCPD Thermoset Plastics

Author(s)

Lum, Andrew

Issue Date

2023-04

Keyword(s)

• Material Science
• 3-D printing

Abstract

Thermosets are valued for their considerable chemical and mechanical strength; however, a primary issue with these materials is their lack of recyclability. One exciting advancement in plastics technology is the ability to recycle these materials, which converts them into valuable polyurethane. Although this may seem like one of many new sustainable plastic solutions, the significance of our formulation is its ability to retain its desirable mechanical properties. But is there a way to prove that these properties are retained? Proving this requires hours of 3D printing and polishing plastic samples, and examining them under a microscope to ensure they do not have large ridges, also known as stress concentrators. Doesn't it sound like a perfect job for an undergrad? Just kidding. With my mentor's guidance, I took the lead in designing a procedure that efficiently produces these samples and ran tests. While monotonous at times, this process was critical to validating the new recyclable plastic. Polishing allows us to accurately measure the material's stiffness. Unfortunately, when observed under the microscope, this sample had too many ridges. From this study, we demonstrated that this new recycling technology for thermosets has a minimal effect on their desired strength and toughness.

Type of Resource

• image
• text

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2023 Andrew Lum

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