My work is focused on the investigation of the dynamics and nonlinear shear response of reversible covalent systems and double networks systems. The ultimate goal is to understand the exact role of molecular parameters of DDNs such as entanglements, dangling ends, bonds and segment dynamics, in order to be able to tailor rheological properties of networks.
The study involves the combination of distinct properties of two classes of networks and crosslinks, to impart large mechanical strength, deformability, swelling and self-healing, in order to obtain materials suitable for different applications.
Linear and nonlinear rheological tests are performed in order to investigate the macroscopic properties of the samples such as stability, relaxation time spectrum and shear thinning or thickening behavior, which are connected to its microstructure. Furthermore, creep measurements can be performed to investigate the viscoelasticity over a very wide range of frequencies, while to extend the spectra to higher frequencies a piezo-rheometer will be used.
Rheological and mechanical properties will be related to the fracture mechanisms and to the elongational properties, in order to establish the connection between network structures, chain mobility and physical properties. In this way it will be possible to obtain a general picture about the systems investigated and improve their properties according to industrial application.
