Vinyl Ester Compatible, High Modulus Fiber System for Composite Laminates

Because of their improved corrosion resistance, high strength to weight ratios, high modulus to weight ratios, and low specific gravity compared to those of metallic materials, fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites have emerged as a major class of structural material in aerospace, automotive and other industries. The properties of high performance composites, consisting of carbon fiber in a polymer matrix, are known to be highly dependent on the quality of adhesion between the different components. This bond quality is dependent upon interfacial properties between fiber and matrix resin, which can be influenced by several factors such as yarn sizing, matrix resin plasticization, and impact strength additives. In theory, carbon fiber composites should outperform fiberglass and even aramid composites in critical performance parameters. To date, this has not been attained for the carbon reinforcement of standard marine vinyl ester matrix resin systems. One objective of this project is to focus on achieving the predicted mechanical properties by means of novel chemicals and a novel procedure. The other objective of this program is to evaluate the physical and chemical mechanisms currently thought responsible for adhesion in order to improve the performance of carbon vinyl ester composites.