Torsional properties of helix-reinforced composites fabricated by magnetic freeze casting. (January 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Porter, Michael M.; Meraz, Luis; Calderon, Albert; Choi, Hyunjae; Chouhan, Amer; Wang, Leon; Meyers, Marc A.; McKittrick, Joanna
• Is Part Of: Composite structures. Volume 119(2015)
• Page Start: 174
• Page End: 184
• Publication Date: 2015-01
• Subjects: Torsion -- Helix -- Bioinspired -- Freeze casting -- Magnetic alignment -- Ceramic composites; Composite construction -- Periodicals; Composites -- Périodiques; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2014.08.033
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-8223

Abstract

Abstract: Helix-reinforced structures are found in a variety of natural materials, from the helical architecture of the narwhal tusk to the Bouligand structures in the exoskeletons of crustaceans. Drawing inspiration from these natural structures, a novel materials processing method, known as magnetic freeze casting, is used to fabricate helix-reinforced hybrid composites. The ZrO2 –epoxy composites investigated here exhibit enhanced torsional properties due their helical architectural organization. In torsion, the maximum tensile and compressive stresses induced by a state of pure shear are oriented at ±45° to the axis of rotation. As a result, the composites with helix-reinforcement oriented parallel to the direction of maximum compressive stress (at ∼45°) exhibit the highest shear moduli. Bioinspired, hybrid composites with helix-reinforced structures may be useful for a variety of engineering applications, from the cylindrical shafts in combustion engines to golf clubs and bone implants.