Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites – Thermoplastic and Thermoset Resins
Today, the variety of materials used in the field of engineering is gradually increasing. One of these materials is fibre reinforced polymer composites. These composites are produced by combining different materials to increase durability and create lightweight structures suitable for special applications. In this article, we will take a closer look at the thermoplastic and thermosetting resins that form the basis of fibre-reinforced polymer composites.What is Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composite?
Fibre-reinforced polymer composites are materials formed by the integration of high-strength fibres (usually glass, carbon or aramid fibres) in a polymer matrix. This combination gives the material increased strength, light weight and customisability. Fibre reinforced polymer composites have a wide range of applications in aerospace, automotive, construction and many other industries.Thermoplastic Resins
Thermoplastics soften and melt on application of heat and harden again on cooling. This softening can be repeated as often as desired without appreciable effect on material properties.Properties:
- Elasticity: Thermoplastic matrices are materials that soften and change shape when heat is applied.
- Reusability: Fibre-reinforced thermoplastic composites have the ability to melt and reshape.
- Formability: They can be shaped when heated and these properties facilitate the production of complex parts.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is an opaque engineering thermoplastic formed through the polymerisation of three different monomers called a terpolymer. These three main monomers are:- Acrylonitrile (A): Adds strength and chemical resistance.
- Butadiene (B): Adds elastic properties and makes the material impact resistant.
- Styrene (S): Provides transparency and rigidity.
Polyaryletherketones (PAEK)
High performance semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymers obtained by polymerisation of units containing aryl and ether groups. PAEK is highly resistant to chemicals and hydrolysis, making them ideal for medical applications, oil drilling components, automotive gears, etc.Polyetheretherketone (PEEK)
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a high performance thermoplastic polymer and is commonly referred to as “PEEK”. PEEK’s distinctive properties include high temperature resistance, excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance, low abrasion characteristics and electrical insulation capabilities. Its high temperature resistance allows it to be used over a wide temperature range in industrial applications, while its excellent mechanical properties provide durability and impact resistance. Chemical resistance and biocompatible properties contribute to PEEK’s preference in medical devices, automotive parts, electrical insulation components and various other applications. These properties are important characteristics of PEEK that make it widely used in a wide range of industrial applications.
Thermosetting Resins
Thermosetting resins are polymer materials that, once cured under heat and pressure, undergo chemical changes and cannot be recycled. Characteristics:- Crosslinking: Thermoset matrices contain cross-links that cure by heat or chemical reaction and form an irreversible structure.
- Thermal Durability: They can withstand high temperatures, which means they are suitable for high temperature applications in various industries.
- Chemical Resistance: They are resistant to chemical substances, so they are suitable for use in various industries.
Polyesters
Polyester resins are used in many application areas, especially in construction, marine, automotive and water sports equipment. However, in applications with higher strength and performance requirements, epoxy or other advanced matrix materials may be preferred over polyester matrices.Vinyl esters
Vinyl ester resins are known for their high chemical resistance, which makes them particularly suitable for use in industrial environments exposed to aggressive chemicals. In addition, vinyl ester matrices have the advantages of impact resistance, low water absorption rate and high thermal resistance. These properties make them generally preferred in the manufacture of composite structures used in marine, petrochemical, chemical tanks, wind turbines and other aggressive environments.Epoxies
The properties of epoxy resins generally include excellent mechanical properties, high bond strength, chemical resistance and low fracture tendency. These properties enable epoxy matrices to find a wide range of uses in various industries and applications.Advantages and Disadvantages
Thermosets cannot be reused after heat treatment. The reason for this is the cross-links formed during heat treatment (curing). Thermoplastics can be reused again and again because strong cross-links are not formed during heat treatment. The difference between the bonds is simply as shown in Figure 3.
