Self-reporting of electrical and mechanical damage in polymers

The durability of equipment insulated with polymers can deteriorate due to various types of mechanical and electrical damage encountered during operation. This accumulated damage can reduce the effectiveness of the insulation material, increasing the chances of failure in extreme cases. We implement a self-reporting approach based on microcapsules in silicone rubber that can autonomously detect damage resulting from electrical and mechanical impacts. The microcapsules can be ruptured directly through mechanical damage or by high-energy electron bombardment caused by electrical damage. Once ruptured, the 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein (DCF) contained within the microcapsules is released into the matrix. When DCF comes in contact with the alkaline substances within the matrix, the damaged region becomes discolored, displaying a red color. We determine the optimal microcapsule content by considering both the discoloration effect and the self-reporting sample's mechanical and electrical properties. This self-reporting material provides an autonomous alert to indicate and warn against damage resulting from electrical and mechanical sources, contributing to the reliable utilization of polymers.