On the cyclic delamination-healing capacity of vitrimer-based composite laminates

This study aims to investigate the self-healing capability of a composite laminate composed of novel bio-based benzoxazine vitrimers when subjected to delamination-healing cycles. The composite laminate is manufactured using compression resin transfer moulding. To quantify the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and induced damage, three-point bending tests were conducted on short-beam shear specimens. The healing of interfacial damages was achieved by applying pressure (1 MPa) at 170 °C. Three healing experiments were performed with different thermal cycling durations: 1, 10, and 60 minutes. The extent of interfacial healing was evaluated through four repetitions of delamination-healing cycles. Despite a gradual decrease in ILSS values with each cycle, the specimens subjected to a 60-minute healing process exhibit remarkable recovery. After three cycles, 80 % of the ILSS is restored, highlighting the highly efficient healing capability of the vitrimer-based composite.