Main Story

The NANOLIFE project aims to understand the molecular mechanisms governing the formation and propagation of cracks in the vicinity of nanoparticles in correlation with their effect on macroscopic fatigue properties. We will address this complex challenge by using model systems with finely controlled particle morphologies and interphases. For that, model silica nanospheres with be grafted with well-defined polymer chains to explore the effects of cohesion between the matrix and the interphase. The interphase thickness and entanglement rate will be screened by i) changing the chain length and ii) implementing dynamic crosslinks in the interphase to trap entangled matrix chains within a dynamic covalent network. In parallel to the experimental work, numerical approaches will bring priceless understanding in chain conformation, dynamics and interfacial adhesion with functionalized nanoparticles as well as initiation of the damage during fatigue cycles.