Modified PVDF Composite Tubes With Stronger Fiber-Matrix Adhesion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Composites with a PVDF matrix and glass or carbon fiber reinforcement suffer from insufficient adhesion between the fiber and matrix, leading to poor mechanical properties and the need for multiple layered boundary surfaces, which can be weaknesses under extreme conditions, especially in thermoplastic composite pipes.

Innovation Solution

A composite with a polymer matrix comprising at least 80% low viscosity PVDF and 2-10% acrylate copolymer with carboxylic anhydride groups, combined with 30-55% carbon fibers, which enhances fiber-matrix adhesion and reduces the number of critical layer boundaries, allowing for improved mechanical properties and simplified manufacturing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a PVDF matrix is used for fiber reinforcement, then flame retardancy and chemical resistance are improved, but adhesion between fiber and matrix is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflame retardancy and chemical resistanceVSAvoidfiber-matrix adhesion
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the PVDF matrix by incorporating specific additives and changing compositional parameters to improve adhesion. The matrix composition is adjusted with coupling agents or surface treatment substances that enhance the bonding between carbon/glass fibers and the PVDF matrix, while maintaining the base PVDF properties for flame retardancy and chemical resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite matrix system where PVDF is combined with other materials (such as coupling agents, surface treatments, or blending polymers) to achieve both good adhesion to fibers and retention of PVDF's inherent flame retardant and chemically resistant properties. This multi-component matrix system resolves the contradiction by combining materials with complementary properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If multiple layered boundary surfaces are created to improve adhesion, then fiber-matrix bonding is enhanced, but the number of critical interfaces increases leading to potential weaknesses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiber-matrix adhesionVSAvoidnumber of critical interfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the adhesion function into a single integrated solution rather than using multiple separate layers. By incorporating adhesion-promoting substances directly into the PVDF matrix or applying a single surface treatment to the fibers, the patent achieves effective bonding without creating multiple layered interfaces, thus reducing the number of critical boundaries while maintaining strong adhesion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Strength

If complex manufacturing processes are used to improve adhesion, then fiber-matrix bonding is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiber-matrix adhesionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs self-service mechanisms where the adhesion promotion occurs automatically during the existing manufacturing process. For example, coupling agents are incorporated into the matrix that automatically bond to fiber surfaces during composite fabrication, or fiber surface treatments are applied in-line during production. This eliminates the need for separate, complex adhesion-enhancement steps while achieving strong bonding.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution achieves strong fiber-matrix adhesion and improved mechanical properties, reducing the number of critical layer boundaries and enhancing the composite's performance and durability, particularly in thermoplastic composite pipes used in harsh environments.

Implementation Method 1

A composite with a polymer matrix comprising at least 80% low viscosity PVDF and 2-10% acrylate copolymer with carboxylic anhydride groups, combined with 30-55% carbon fibers, which enhances fiber-matrix adhesion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical bonding: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentEP3626764B1Composite with thermoplastic matrix
Publication Date: 2021.02.24 EVONIK OPERATIONS GMBH
  • EP3626764B1 patent drawing
  • EP3626764B1 patent drawing
  • EP3626764B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to continuous fiber-reinforced composites with a matrix of modified PVDF. The composite can be a semi-finished product, a product manufactured therefrom, or a finished part. A product according to the invention is long fiber granules, while a finished part according to the invention is, in particular, a thermoplastic composite tube.