Thermomechanical Dynamic Analysis of a Prepreg: Applications to Industrial Baking

摘要

The rheological characteristics of the resin used in the fabrication of a polymer matrix composite were studied. The fabrication of an organic matrix composite supposes both a thermal cycle for the polymerization of the resin and compacting pressure on the stack of prepregs at a point in the thermal cycle where the viscosity of the resin is adequate for good fiber/resin contact, obtaining a composite without porosity that has high mechanical strength. Composite sheets were produced, applying compacting pressure at different characteristic stages in the resin gelation process. Structural porosity is assessed and optimal temperature and baking time are determined.