FIB-etching of polymer/metal laminates and its effect on mechanical performance.

This paper investigates the adhesive interface in a polymer/metal (polyethylene terephthalate/steel) laminate that is subjected to uniaxial strain. Cross-sections perpendicular to such interfaces were created with a focused ion beam and imaged with scanning electron microscopy during straining in the electron microscope. During in situ straining, glide steps formed by the steel caused traction at the interface and initiated crazes in the polyethylene terephthalate (PET).