Mechanical and Impact Characterization of Poly-Dicyclopentadiene (p-DCPD) Matrix Composites Using Novel Glass Fibers and Sizings
Abstract
A survey of mechanical and impact properties for glass-reinforced polydicyclopentadiene (p-DCPD) matrix composites is undertaken to assess the suitability of the new resin system as a replacement for existing epoxy-matrix systems. The p-DCPD resin system has superior thermal stability and intrinsic fracture-toughness properties that are desirable for Army-unique applications. However, challenges in conventional processing techniques and chemical-sizing compatibility were encountered during the study. Various novel glass fibers and commercially available fabrics were infused with both p-DCPD resin and SC-15 epoxy and mechanical and impact testing performed. The key results indicate p-DCPD composites have lower mechanical and impact performance compared to SC-15 composites due to chemical-sizing incompatibility at the fibermatrix interface. Despite efforts to tweak processing and to develop compatible sizings with industry partner Pittsburgh Plate Glass Industries, the p-DCPD composites had poor interfacial bonding that manifested as significantly lower interlaminar-shear strength. The main conclusion of this study is this: Given the desirable properties of p-DCPD, a program effort should be undertaken to develop a chemical sizing that will be 100 compatible with the p-DCPD resin and allow for processing of composites that have improved or comparable structuralas well as ballisticproperties to epoxy-matrix composites.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1014745
Entities
People
- Steven E. Boyd
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory