Ivica Smojver

Prof. Ivica Smojver


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

6Years (2021-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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5 January 2021 in Polymers
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
THTatjana Haramina
Tatjana Haramina
Daniel PugarDaniel Pugar
Daniel Pugar
DIDarko Ivančević
Darko Ivančević
ISIvica Smojver
Ivica Smojver
The capability of poly(ethylene-co-methacrylic acid) (E/MAA) to self-heal is well known, however, its mechanical properties are weak. In this study, composites with single and double layers of unidirectional (UD) carbon fibers were prepared by compression molding. Even a low mass fraction of fibers substantially improved the polymer. The flexural and tensile properties were tested at 0°, 45° and 90° fibers direction and compared to those of the matrix. The mechanical properties in the 0° direction proved superior. Flexural properties depended on the reinforcement distance from the stress neutral plane. The tensile modulus in the 0° direction was 13 times greater despite only a 2.5% mass fraction of fibers. However, both tensile modulus and strength were observed to degrade in the 90° direction. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed the dependence of both structure and properties on the thermal history of E/MAA. Tensile tests after ballistic impact showed that the modulus of the self-healed E/MAA was not affected, yet the strength, yield point, and particularly the elongation at break were reduced. A composite with higher fiber content could be prepared by mixing milled E/MAA particles in fibers prior to compression.