Synthesis and characterization of Poly(urea-formaldehyde) microcapsules with 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene as self-healing agent and potential use in polymeric composites.

This study describes a methodology to prepare and characterize PUF [poly(urea formaldehyde)] microcapsules containing 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene (ENB) as self-healing agent, as well as the compatibility evaluation of ENB in the presence of Grubb's catalyst with an epoxy matrix. First, the results of an adhesion assay by lap shear proved chemical compatibility between the epoxy matrix and self-healing agent in the presence of Grubb's catalyst. After evaluating the chemical compatibility, microcapsules with ENB were synthesized in an oil-in-water emulsion system.

Impact assessment of synthesis parameter stirring speed in final physicochemical properties of PU microcapsules incorporated into epoxy matrixes.

A considerable number of papers have been published to assess self-healing capacity of several materials, as well as several applications in different areas. However, the impact assessment of changing synthesis parameters of microcapsules, hollow fibers or microvascular systems in its final physicochemical properties are still an emerging research field. This current paper presents a synthesis process of PU microcapsules containing TDI as core agent and the characterization of microcapsules physicochemical properties.