Thermoset-based composite

At the outset of the composites industry, the matrices were unsaturated polyesters. Then other thermosets were developed but some years ago the manufacture of thermoplastic composites began and their development is now faster than that of thermoset-based composites. 

In general, due to the simpler manufacturing process and the cheaper polymer matrix, the thermoset- or thermoplastic-based composite plates have lower cost than that of carbon/carbon composite plates. The thermoset-based composite and thermoplastic-based composite plates have their own advantages and limitations, which are largely determined by the properties of the matrix materials and the ratio between the filler and mafrix. 

Thermoset based composite laminates are generally produced bj Autoclave/Vacuum Degassing Lamination Process (38, 39). The characteristics of this inocess are shown in Fig. IS. In this process, pr eg plies of desired shape are laid up in a prescribed orientation to form a laminate. The laminate is covered with successive layers of an absorbent material (glass bleeder fabric), a fluminated film to prevent sticking, and, finally, with a vacuum bag. The mitire system is placed upon a smooth metal tool surface into an autoclave, vacuum is a Ued to the bag and the temperature is increased at a constant rate in order to promote the resin flow and polymerization. The autoclave process will be used along this section as a case study to describe the influence of the matrix characteristics on the processing behavior of hi performance conqmsites. 

Figure 6.1 Schematic representations of various types of reinforcements used to make thermoset-based composites...

This book also presents a detailed review of the recent advances on thermoset-based composites and nanocomposites. Finally, Handbook of Thermoset Resins highlights the future directions of research in various areas of thermoset resins. 

I have divided this book into seven chapters. It starts with a general introduction to thermosets, which includes network concept, additives and techniques/instrumentations (their principles) used to characterise a thermoset resin. The chemistry, properties and applications of individual thermoset resins are discussed in Chapters 2 and 3. Chapters 4 and 5 deal with the modification of thermoset resins for improvement in fracture toughness. The thermoset-based composites and nanocomposites are... 

Market penetration by plastics either will be enabled by acceptance of more thermoset-based composite solutions or by part integration leveraged by advanced adhesive systems. Certainly many hybrid polymer-metal technologies are being considered and will surface in the market by the year 2025. Developing countries will look for lightweight and enviroiunentally friendly cars, and in most cases, this will make plastics and plastic composites as well as bioplastic solutions attractive. 

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