METHODS FOR USE OF FLUORESCENT NANOPARTICLES TO DETERMINE FREE VOLUME AND TO DETECT AND DELIVER MATERIALS TO REPAIR CRACKS IN POLYMERS AND POLYMER COMPOSITES

摘要

Methods for use of functionalized fluorescent nanoparticles in the non-destructive, direct and dynamic determination of free volume and glass transition changes and mechanical property changes of polymers and polymer composites are provided. Also provided are methods for use of functionalized fluorescent nanoparticles in tracking changes occurring in an individual component or components of a polymer composite. Methods for use of functionalized fluorescent nanoparticles in the quantitation and dynamic monitoring of crack propagation and fatigue of polymers and/or polymer composites and in the delivery of repair agents such as adhesives and/or cross-linking agents to cracks of polymers and polymer composites are provided.