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.