In the quest to bolster the resilience of water transport infrastructure, a team of researchers led by Oleksandr Sapronov from the Department of Transport Technologies and Mechanical Engineering has made a significant stride. Their work, published in the journal “Advances in Materials Science and Engineering” (which translates to “Progress in Materials Science and Engineering”), focuses on enhancing the thermophysical properties of polymer composites designed to protect water transport systems.
The study delves into the behavior of polymeric materials infused with refractory compounds like titanium carbide (TiC) and ferrite (Fe3C). Using thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis, the team assessed structural transformations in these modern materials. “Composites containing an active additive at a concentration of 0.100 wt% exhibit the lowest relative mass loss,” Sapronov explains. This is due to the formation of a significant number of bonds between the polymer components and the redistribution of thermal energy within the polymer volume.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. The enhanced thermal stability of these polymers, which increases from 587 K to 612 K, could lead to more durable and efficient protective materials for water transport systems. This is particularly relevant for pipelines and other infrastructure that operate under high-temperature conditions.
The research also highlights the role of the initial exoeffect temperature (Ti), which is 485.4 K, as a key parameter affecting the permissible temperature range of the developed polymers. The activation energy of the composites increased by 1.2 times, indicating a significant improvement in their thermal stability.
Sapronov’s team found that the rational introduction of the filler into the polymer matrix increases the stiffness of the segments and the main chain. This is due to the presence of TiC (20%) and Fe3C (5%), which are formed after high-voltage electric discharge (HVED) synthesis. The active particles of refractory compounds serve as centers for the formation of an additional spatial polymer network, ensuring the redistribution of thermal energy within the polymer volume.
The study’s findings could pave the way for more robust and efficient materials in the energy sector. As water transport systems continue to evolve, the need for materials that can withstand high temperatures and maintain their structural integrity becomes increasingly critical. This research offers a promising solution to that challenge.
In the broader context, the work by Sapronov and his team underscores the importance of advanced materials science in addressing real-world problems. By enhancing the thermophysical properties of polymer composites, they are not only improving the performance of water transport systems but also contributing to the broader goal of creating more sustainable and efficient energy infrastructure.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights gained from this research could shape future developments in the field. The enhanced thermal stability and durability of these polymer composites could lead to more reliable and long-lasting infrastructure, ultimately benefiting both the industry and the environment.