Estimation of the surface tension and dispersive and polar components of polymers as a function of temperature for composite manufacturing applications
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Understanding adhesion between fiber and matrix at elevated temperatures is essential for improving the mechanical performance of polymer-based composites, especially with thermoplastic matrices. However, detailed characterization of polymer surface tension and its polar and dispersive components as a function of temperature remains limited. This study investigates these properties for liquid and thermoplastic polymers using the Wilhelmy plate and pendant drop methods. First, experimental procedures were developed, optimized, and validated through cross-comparison with reference liquids of known surface tension and components. Accurate and reproducible measurements were secondly achieved across a range of elevated temperatures for liquid polymers (polyethylene glycol, bio-based epoxy) and for molten thermoplastics (polypropylene, polylactic acid). A key finding is the observation of a linear decrease in surface tension with increasing temperature. Additionally, a procedure was set to determine polymer dispersive and polar components with respect to the temperature. Due to the volatility and thermal limitation of n-hexane used in interfacial tension measurements, alternative probe liquids were systematically evaluated. Silicone oil and paraffin oil were identified and validated as a suitable replacements, enabling reliable measurements at high temperatures. These results demonstrate robust methodologies for high-temperature surface characterization and provide essential data for understanding the fiber–matrix adhesion under realistic processing conditions.
Source: Polymer Testing
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,370
Funder: Agence Nationale de la Recherche
OpenAlex ID: W7128441731