Investigation of the molecular mechanisms for the bonding of temperature-stable, adhesive joints for cryogenic application conditions using the example of PU-bonded aluminum materials (kryo-PU)

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Markus Biel; Professor Dr.-Ing. Uwe Reisgen
• Subject Area: Joining and Separation Technology ; Solid State and Surface Chemistry, Material Synthesis
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 569028680

In the proposed project, interdisciplinary collaboration between engineering science and applied chemistry is the key to building a fundamental understanding of structure-activity relationships for the mechanical behavior of bonded joints under cryogenic conditions. To this end, the correlation between the increase in strength and decrease in ductility (increase in brittleness) of polymers under cryogenic conditions and the associated decrease in adhesion and impact strength of bonded joints will be investigated in detail. By systematically modifying the adhesive formulation, alternative molecular mechanisms for the absorption of energy, the reduction of stresses and the mediation of adhesion of bonded joints under cryogenic conditions are to be investigated and understood. In parallel, mechanical properties and the service life of the adhesive formulations and bonded joints will also be investigated at RT in order to empirically evaluate the temperature dependence of the concepts that ensure stable joints at CT. The knowledge gained will ultimately be used to understand the interactions between polymer formulation and temperature-dependent mechanical performance and thus expand the possible uses of polymer materials for cryogenic applications.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Major Instrumentation: Kryostat für mikroskopische und mikrospektroskopische Anwendungen - Dehnversuche ; Pendelschlagwerk mit Schlagenergien bis zu 50 Joule