Exploring Polymer Matrix Formulations and Preparation Techniques for Optically Transparent Composites

摘要

Current polymer composites have allowed for the creation of materials that have a range of applications from the aerospace industry to construction. While, historically, composites have held a structural role, there is interest in expanding their role to include other applications such as windows or lenses, where transparency and optical clarity are crucial. However, this becomes difficult due light scattering caused by mismatching of the polymer matrix and fiber refractive indices. The purpose of this project will be to investigate the thermal, mechanical, and optical properties of a family of thermoset epoxies, anhydrides, and amines for use as a polymer matrix in optically transparent composites. Our chosen approach to creating these composites will be to match refractive indices and control undesirable optical phenomena (i.e. chromatic aberration, low light transmission, etc.). Additives will be incorporated into the epoxy and curative (either anhydride or amine) systems at varied loading levels to target the desired optical properties. These systems will be prepared by a variety of methods to understand the effect on the thermal, mechanical, and optical properties of interest.