In-situ observation of cutting-induced failure processes of single high-performance fibers inside a SEM

Abstract Insight into the detailed fracture processes of single high-performance fibers improves understanding for the nature of their unique resistance to external loads. Here, we show the in-situ observation of entire fracture processes of an uncoated single Kevlar® KM2 Plus and Dyneema® SK76 fiber cut by a razor blade at various angles in a Scanning Electronic Microscope (SEM), including initial contact, deformation, crack initiation and propagation until final failure. The effects of gauge length, sputter coating of the platinum, fiber type and cutting angle on the fiber failure were investigated and discussed. The mass-efficient cutting resistance of a single fiber was evaluated by the specific energy. The diversity of the failure modes and cutting resistance were analyzed and attributed to the specific fiber nanostructure and different cutting angles.