Emission and Mechanical Evaluations of Vinyl-Ester Resin Systems
Abstract
Vinyl-ester resins (VE) are frequently used in liquid molding of composite materials for several applications including naval and army structures, commercial boat manufacturing, and building construction. Currently, commercially available VE products contain large amounts of styrene monomer, which is released as a hazardous air pollutant (HAP) during mixing, processing, curing, and fielding of VE-based composite structures. As federal emission standards continue to regulate the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and HAPs, alternative low-mission reactive diluents or low-styrene concentration VEs must be designed to meet emission limits without financial penalties. Currently, steps are being taken to develop low-cost, alternative composite resin systems comprised of lower styrene concentrations. These resin systems will prove an effective means to reduce or eliminate VOC release. In this study, commercial VE formulations are tested for both emission and mechanical properties to establish a baseline for comparing new VE performances. A method of evaluating the emission rate is developed using mass loss of VOC as a function of time and temperature. The impact of selected parameters on the observed rate of mass loss is evaluated using a preliminary model to compare resin systems. Finally, the material performance of commercial VEs is evaluated using thermal-mechanical evaluation methods to provide material targets for new formulations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA412891
Entities
People
- Chad A Ulven
- James M. Sands
- Uday K. Vaidya
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory