The Effects of UV Aging on the Cracking of Titanium Oxide Layer on Poly (Ethylene Terephthalate) Substrate

Chao Zhang, Fangliang Chen, Matthew H. Gray, Robert Tirawat, Ross E. Larsen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Thin oxide and metal films deposited on polymer substrates are emerging technologies for advanced reflectors for concentrated solar power applications, due to their unique combination of light weight, flexibility, and inexpensive manufacture. Thus far, there is little knowledge on the mechanical integrity or structural persistence of such multi-layer thin film systems under long-term environmental aging. In this paper, the cracking of a brittle titanium dioxide layer deposited onto elasto-plastic poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate is studied through a combination of experiment and modeling. In situ fragmentation tests have been conducted to monitor the onset and evolution of cracks both on pristine and on samples aged with ultraviolet (UV) light. An analytical model is presented to simulate the cracking behavior and to predict the effects of UV aging. Based on preliminary experimental observation, the effect of aging is divided into three aspects and analyzed independently: mechanical property degradation of the polymer substrate; degradation of the interlayer between substrate and oxide coating; and internal stress-induced cracks on the oxide coating.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEarth and Space 2016
Subtitle of host publicationEngineering for Extreme Environments - Proceedings of the 15th Biennial International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments
EditorsRamesh B. Malla, Juan H. Agui, Paul J. van Susante
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Pages881-891
Number of pages11
ISBN (Electronic)9780784479971
DOIs
StatePublished - 2016
Externally publishedYes
Event15th Biennial International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments, Earth and Space 2016 - Orlando, United States
Duration: 11 Apr 201615 Apr 2016

Publication series

NameEarth and Space 2016: Engineering for Extreme Environments - Proceedings of the 15th Biennial International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments

Conference

Conference15th Biennial International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments, Earth and Space 2016
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityOrlando
Period11/04/1615/04/16

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