Dimensional stability of epoxy-based and cyanate-based carbon fiber-reinforced plastics

Abstract

In this article, the dimensional stability of epoxy- and cyanate-based laminates is discussed, focusing on the thermal deformation, moisture-induced deformation, and deformation induced by relaxation of thermal residual stress. Each of the deformations was calculated independently based on the laminate theory. The material properties of the unidirectional laminates were obtained by conducting thermal mechanical analysis, moisture absorption tests, and tensile creep tests. These material properties were adopted to the laminate theory to predict the deformation of quasi-isotropic laminate, and it was calculated that each type of deformation induced micron-level dimensional instability. The moisture-induced deformation was an order of magnitude larger than that caused by the other factors. The validity of the calculations was confirmed by comparing the calculated results with the experimental ones. It is important to control moisture absorption even if cyanate resin, which has high moisture resistance, is used.

Effect of urea derivatives on the volume shrinkage during curing of cyanate ester and epoxy resins with polymeric hardener based on phenol‐amine salt

“…Although the curing behavior and physical properties of cyanate ester/epoxy resins systems have been reported, there have been no detailed studies on volume change during the curing. [19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29] Therefore, it is desirable to develop and investigate new methods to suppress the volume shrinkage more than the PAH system.…”

“… 17 The PAH system showed approximately 3% of volume shrinkage during the curing, which was not yet sufficient for further functionalization of the cured product and practical application of the curing system. Although the curing behavior and physical properties of cyanate ester/epoxy resins systems have been reported, there have been no detailed studies on volume change during the curing 19–29 . Therefore, it is desirable to develop and investigate new methods to suppress the volume shrinkage more than the PAH system.…”

Hydrolysis susceptibility and carbamate formation for a low moisture-absorbing, siloxane-modified cyanate ester resin matrix (TC410) material used for composite space applications

“…Unlike epoxy resins that generate hydroxyl groups during cure and are extremely hygroscopic, cyanates absorb significantly less moisture due to their aromatic nature. 9 In addition, their structures also result in higher glass transition temperatures, improved fracture toughness, lower coefficient of moisture expansion (CME), and increased resistance to microcracking when exposed to extreme thermal environments. [10][11] However, there are possible side reactions during the cure of cyanate ester resins that may affect the final polymer network, as reviewed in detail by Bauer and Bauer.…”

The performance characterization of carbon fiber–reinforced plastic for space applications

“…Cyanate resin gradually replaces epoxy resin as the main resin matrix material for spacecraft composite materials. 19…”

“…Cyanate resin gradually replaces epoxy resin as the main resin matrix material for spacecraft composite materials. 19 In the case of our space telescope structure, the secondary mirror is supported at the required 4.96-m vertex separation from the primary mirror by a lightweight truss structure. The configuration of the truss structure consists of frames, support tubes, and joints.…”