Process Modeling for Resin Transfer Molding of a Modified Heterocyclic Phenolic/Epoxy Blended Resin

摘要

Resin transfer molding (RTM) is used to manufacture advanced composite partsrnfor high performance applications. Currently, next generation polymer matrixrnmaterials are being developed to address new performance requirements and extremernservice environments. Such resins may feature more sophisticated chemistries andrncomplex properties than traditional RTM resins. Thus, their in-process characteristicsrnmust be carefully analyzed in order to develop strategies for defect mitigation andrnprocess optimization. The present study describes the development and initial use ofrnprocess models for a modified heterocyclic epoxy/phenolic resin system. Based onrnexperimental characterization data, resin property models were developed based onrnexisting equations or observed phenomena. These models were used to analyze arntypical RTM manufacturing process and identify key governing relationships. Thernresults show that the behavior of the studied resin is more complex than that ofrntraditional thermosets, with additional temperature dependences and non-negligiblerncure-induced volatile release. However, the behavior can be described using modifiedrnsemi-empirical models. The results also identify volatile release and volumetricrnshrinkage as potentially key phenomena influencing defect formation and part quality.