Evaluation and Modeling of Scratch Resistance of Polymers

摘要

A new test methodology based on materials science and mechanics tools for evaluating scratch resistance of polymers has recently been developed and approved as a new ASTM standard. This new test method allows for simple, unambiguous quantitative evaluation and ranking of scratch resistance of polymeric materials. A low-cost scratch tester that can perform a constant load scratch test, an accelerated rate test, and a progressive load scratch test was built in our laboratory for the present study. Finite element methods (FEM) simulation has also been carried out to correlate between material parameters and the surface damage observed during scratch. An overview of the state of the art understanding of scratch behavior of polymers and coatings will be presented. Approaches for designing scratch resistant polymers and coatings will also be discussed.