At IRDL, David Kerihuel explored the behavior of polymer foams under various stresses.
David Kerihuel, chercheur·e au sein de IRDL (Institut National Polytechnique de Bretagne).
Thèse soutenue en 2024 à l'école doctorale École doctorale Sciences Pour l'Ingénieur (Lorient ; 2022-....).
Référencée dans le réseau ABES/STAR, cette thèse répond aux critères de rigueur de l'enseignement supérieur français.
David Kerihuel's thesis, titled "Uniaxial and Multiaxial Behavior of Polymer-Based Cellular Materials," addresses a current topic in the field of materials, a constantly evolving area of crucial importance for many industrial sectors. Polymer foams, which are lightweight and versatile materials, are used in various sectors such as automotive, construction, maritime, and even aerospace. These materials are subjected to complex mechanical stresses, making their study essential to ensure their performance and durability under real-world usage conditions. Kerihuel's research aims to understand how these materials respond under uniaxial and multiaxial loading conditions, an aspect often overlooked in previous studies, but which could have significant implications for the safety and efficiency of final products.
The preliminary results of this research show an improved understanding of the mechanical behavior of these foams, which is essential for optimizing their use in critical applications. For example, polypropylene foam, whose market is rapidly expanding, could reach a value of 10 billion USD by 2029. This underscores the growing importance of these materials in protecting property and people, particularly in the maritime sector, where water resistance and lightweight are determining criteria. Indeed, polymer foams are often used in the construction of boat hulls, floats, and other maritime equipment, where their ability to absorb shocks and withstand extreme environmental conditions is paramount.
However, this thesis is not limited to a simple technical analysis. It also addresses environmental issues by recommending the use of cellular materials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Indeed, the manufacturing of these materials, when optimized, can contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. For example, the use of recycled raw materials in the production of polymer foams could not only decrease the consumption of virgin resources but also reduce plastic waste. Research on additive manufacturing processes is also highlighted, as it could improve the design and performance of polymer foams. By integrating technologies such as 3D printing, it becomes possible to create complex structures that maximize mechanical properties while minimizing material waste.
The methodology adopted by Kerihuel is based on experimental tests and finite element numerical simulations. These approaches allow for modeling the behaviors of materials under different stresses, thus providing a more accurate view of their potential. For example, by simulating compression or tensile tests, it is possible to identify the weak points of the foams and optimize their formulation. By integrating numerical models, it becomes possible to predict the behavior of the foams in real situations, which is an asset for industries looking to innovate. This could also facilitate the transition to more sustainable materials, as companies could virtually test alternatives before proceeding to costly physical trials.
In summary, this thesis paves the way for innovations in the use of polymer materials while taking into account current environmental challenges. The results obtained could encourage industrialists to rethink their material choices and invest in more sustainable solutions. For example, companies in the automotive sector could adopt these new foams to reduce the weight of their vehicles, which would help decrease fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Kerihuel's research, validated by the ABES/STAR network, demonstrates a high level of academic rigor, which reinforces the credibility of its conclusions. Ultimately, this thesis not only provides technical answers but also offers a vision for the future of the materials industry, integrating economic, environmental, and social considerations.
Données clés
- 10 milliards USD : Prévision de la valeur du marché de la mousse de polypropylène d'ici 2029.
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Sources et accès
David Kerihuel. Comportement uniaxial et multiaxial de matériaux cellulaires à base de polymères. Matériaux. Université de Bretagne Sud, 2024. Français. ⟨NNT : 2024LORIS701⟩. ⟨tel-04975791⟩