Vynyl Ester Resins Without Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I proposal responds to the US Air Force’s critical need to develop new and innovative Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) technologies based on vinyl ester resins for the construction of shelters, towers and radomes. Texas Research Institute Austin, in conjunction with our commercialization partners Sartomer and Strongwell, propose to build on our previously successful work with composites and pre-fabricated structures to develop a new, improved composite matrix material. This novel composite material will have zero VOC’s, good fire resistance and will have the strength and durability to make it superior to the products that are currently used. We will demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach through extensive testing including, mechanical, physical, thermal, visual, and fire resistance investigations. The proposed monomer substitutes for styrene are very new materials, just finding applications within the last few years. Improved composite materials will translate into significant money savings and improved safety.