High UV Resistant Colorfast SMC

摘要

Unsaturated Polyester resin in Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) systems has been recognized for it's susceptibility to weathering stability. When exposed to outdoor environmental conditions, it experiences various levels of color change, loss of gloss, and surface chalking. Through continuous research we have designed a stable compound with much improved long term performance for outdoor applications. This work to date is not complete and we have implemented an internal continuous improvement program to sustain the drive to raise the bar for outdoor SMC/BMC performance. While this paper is based on outdoor performance, we must always keep cost in mind and that it is the combination of performance and cost that will allow thermosets to compete against other competitive materials such as aluminum, steel and wood. The elimination of top coatings or primers better positions thermosets to compete in the materials world.