Polymer Matrix Composites

Division 5.3

The Polymer-Matrix Composite (PMC) division conducts multi-scale research on process-structure-property relationships of high-performance PMCs. Our goal is to generate fundamental understanding at the molecular and fiber-matrix level and how this relates to macroscopic properties, with the aim of extending mechanical lifetimes and safety in real-world applications. Current emphasis is given to performance enhancement via smart intrinsic design and to the development of recyclable high-performance PMCs.

Within these two main research directions, we conduct advanced thermo-mechanical and structural materials characterization from the nano- to the macro-scale, develop novel failure detection methods, or design innovative repair concepts. These experimental competencies are combined with numerical simulations and molecular science to understand fundamental damage mechanisms and to generate the required knowledge for life-time predictions and life-time enhancements.

Being experimentally mainly rooted at the meso and macro-scale, we ensure a complete scale-bridging approach down to the atomic scale via close collaboration with our partner divisions in the department for Materials Chemistry.

Fields of expertise
Fields of expertise
Static and dynamic mechanical properties of polymers and fibre-reinforced composites
Fatigue strength of fibre-reinforced composites
Microscopic and molecular damage processes
Damage accumulation using X-ray refraction
Fracture mechanics, dynamic fracture toughness
Thermal and spectroscopic analysis of polymers
Fibre/polymer matrix adhesion
Local material properties using micro and nanoindentation
Degradation of polymer materials under the influence of media
Multi-axial failure of fibre-reinforced composites
FEM simulation
Fracture surface microscopy
Main activities
Main activities
Mechanical properties of polymers and fibre-reinforced composites under static/dynamic loads as well as under long-term and temperature change stresses
Component testing for the wind energy, aviation and automotive industries
Degradation of polymer materials under the influence of media
Material characterisation and microscale investigation of failure mechanisms
Damage analysis, damage assessment
Research projects on the technical safety of fibre-reinforced composites
Development of specific testing methods
Standardisation, establishment of rules, consulting
Range of services/technical equipment
Range of services/technical equipment
Servohydraulic and electromechanical test machines up to 500 kN
Servohydraulic tension/torsion test machine, 250 kN / 2,000 Nm with climate-controlled chamber)
Microtension/pressure test facilities 10 mN / 5 N
Laboratory X-ray facilities
Scanning probe microscope
Adhesion measurement
Pendulum impact tester with instrumentation
Testing facility for creep under tension under contact with media
Thermogravimetric analysis, combined with decomposition gas analysis
CAD and FEM
Laser scanning microscope
Flow test device for MFR and MVR
Hydraulic slab press
Cryomicrotome, sanding and polishing equipment
Publications of the division

Publications of the division
In the database PUBLICA you will find publications by BAM employees.
Publications of the division Mechanics of Polymers in PUBLICA
PUBLICA