Cure shrinkage effects in epoxy and polycyanate matrix composites

摘要

A relatively new advanced composite matrix, polycyanate ester, was evaluated for cure shrinkage. In this work, the method of curing a prepreg layup on top of a previously cured laminate of identical ply composition is utilized. The polymeric matrices used in advanced composites have been primarily epoxies and therefore a common system of this type, Fiberite 3501-6, was used as a base case material. Three polycyanate matrix systems were selected for the study, Fiberite 954-2A, YLA RS-3, and Bryte Technology BTCy-1.