Evaluation of the Glass Transition Temperature of Fibre Reinforced PolymerComposites Using Dynamic Mechanical Analysis: Sample and Instrument Criteria

摘要

The regulatory bodies of the aviation industry have recently introducedlegislative guidelines for defining the maximum operating temperature of polymer matrix composites with reference to the glass transition temperature (T(sub g)) of the material. A greater emphasis is therefore placed upon accurate measurement of T(sub g) and having an understanding of the methods used for its measurement. The effect of variations in sample and instrument parameters in the value of T(sub g) measured by dynamic mechanical analysis is evaluated. From the results of this work, an understanding of the technique is gained and a standard test method for inclusion in specifications applied to material suppliers is generated.