Material that can be bent repetitively without fatique?

  • Thread starter Thread starter nomisme
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Material
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around finding a material that can be frequently bent into various shapes without breaking or losing strength. Suggestions include using amorphous polymers, particularly those in their rubbery plateau state, such as cross-poly(butadiene-stat-styrene), which is similar to rubber bands. For composite materials, a particle-reinforced polymer matrix is recommended, though potential adhesion issues between particles and the matrix may arise with frequent bending. Silicone cupcake molds are mentioned as a practical example of flexible materials that can be reshaped. Additionally, nickel-titanium alloys and lead metal are noted for their unique properties, with lead having the ability to self-anneal at room temperature, allowing it to be bent repeatedly without fatigue.
nomisme
Messages
28
Reaction score
0
I am looking for a material that I can bend easily into different desired shape frequently without breaking or losing strength. The material can either be elastic or not elastic. I know sheet spring can do but if I bend it like 70 to 80 degrees will it permanently deformed or become fatique?

Will you recommend a few material composite that allow me to do that? or any examples of this usage?

thanks
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
Some thoughts:
If it doesn't need to stay by itself in the shape that it's forced into, perhaps a amorphous polymer that is in it's rubbery plateau region in the operating temperature would be suitable. For an example (at the room temperature) cross-poly(butadiene-stat-styrene) that is used in rubber bands. If it needs to be a composite material, maybe a particle reinforced polymer matrix where the matrix material is in that same rubbery plateau state. Though there might be problems with adhesion between the particles and the matrix if the composite is being bent a lot.
The first thing that came into my mind when reading your post was the silicone cupcake moulds that can be turned inside out. Now I think I need to visit a bakery...
 
Silly putty
 
Socks
 
I seem to recall that lead metal (Pb) self-anneals at room temperature. So given time it heals after being bent, then can be bent again, and this way never exhibits fatigue.
 
Back
Top