Mathematical models for the cure and viscosity characteristics of an epoxy resin and their applications in computer simulations of composite material manufacturing processes

Jones, WR

Abstract

Aspects that affect the manufacture of
aeroengine components in carbon fibre reinforced epoxy
resin composite material are described and in particular.
factors influencing the process of consolidation of
preimpregnated material laminates to final component
form are critically assessed. Attention is drawn to the
need both to acquire a full understanding of the physics
of the consolidation process and to obtain quantitative
process control data for efficient development and
subsequent production of new components.
All the variables associated with the process
of laminate consolidation are dependent on basic matrix
resin characteristics especially its cure advancement and
the consequent effect on the resin viscosity at all
stages of a moulding cycle. To quantify the matrix resin
chernorheological behaviour, methods for the generation of
mathematical models for the cure and viscosity changes
undergone by a dicyandiamide (DICY) cured epoxy resin
system are described. By the use of these mathematical
models a program for use on a personal computer has been
written by means of which the cure,exotherTnic heat
generation and viscosity of the resin may be simulated
under both isothermal and linear temperature ramp
conditions.
Examples are included of the application of the
models in the solution of problems encountered in the
autoclave process for composoite material components.

Citation

Jones, W. Mathematical models for the cure and viscosity characteristics of an epoxy resin and their applications in computer simulations of composite material manufacturing processes. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Sep 23, 2011
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 23, 2011
• Award Date: Jan 1, 1988