Report 164 ISSN: 0889-3144

Rapra Review Reports

Cure Monitoring
for Composites and
Adhesives

D. Mulligan

Volume 14, Number 8, 2003

Rapra Review Reports

Expert overviews covering the

science and technology of rubber
and plastics
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Item 1
Source of
Macromolecules
original article
33, No.6, 21st March 2000, p.2171-83
Title EFFECT OF THERMAL HISTORY ON THE RHEOLOGICAL
BEHAVIOR OF THERMOPLASTIC POLYURETHANES
Authors and
Pil Joong Yoon; Chang Dae Han affiliation
Akron,University
The effect of thermal history on the rheological behaviour of ester- and
ether-based commercial thermoplastic PUs (Estane 5701, 5707 and 5714
from B.F.Goodrich) was investigated. It was found that the injection
moulding temp. used for specimen preparation had a marked effect on the
variations of dynamic storage and loss moduli of specimens with time
observed during isothermal annealing. Analysis of FTIR spectra indicated
that variations in hydrogen bonding with time during isothermal annealing Abstract
very much resembled variations of dynamic storage modulus with time
during isothermal annealing. Isochronal dynamic temp. sweep experiments
indicated that the thermoplastic PUs exhibited a hysteresis effect in the
heating and cooling processes. It was concluded that the microphase
separation transition or order-disorder transition in thermoplastic PUs could
not be determined from the isochronal dynamic temp. sweep experiment.
The plots of log dynamic storage modulus versus log loss modulus varied
with temp. over the entire range of temps. (110-190C) investigated. 57 refs. Companies or
GOODRICH B.F. organisations
Location USA mentioned
Accession no.771897

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Huntsman Polyurethanes.
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Cure Monitoring for Composites
and Adhesives

David R. Mulligan
(Certech)

ISBN 1-85957-393-2
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives

Contents

1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 3
1.1 Aims and Scope .............................................................................................................................. 3
1.2 Cure of Composites and Adhesives ................................................................................................ 3
1.3 Benefits of Cure Monitoring ........................................................................................................... 4

2 Techniques Monitoring Thermal Properties ......................................................................................... 5

2.1 Temperature .................................................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Thermal Conductivity ..................................................................................................................... 5

3 Techniques Monitoring Mechanical Properties .................................................................................... 5

3.1 Ultrasonic ........................................................................................................................................ 5
3.2 Acoustic .......................................................................................................................................... 6
3.3 Fibre Optic ...................................................................................................................................... 7
3.3.1 Extrinsic Fabry-Pérot Sensor ............................................................................................. 7
3.3.2 Fibre Bragg Grating Sensor ................................................................................................ 7
3.4 Piezoelectric .................................................................................................................................... 8

4 Techniques Monitoring Electrical Properties ....................................................................................... 8

4.1 Electrical Techniques ...................................................................................................................... 8
4.2 Dielectric Sensors ........................................................................................................................... 9
4.3 Interpretation of Dielectric Data ..................................................................................................... 9

5 Techniques Monitoring Optical Properties ..........................................................................................11

5.1 Refractive Index .............................................................................................................................11
5.2 Spectroscopic .................................................................................................................................11
5.2.1 Infrared Spectroscopy ....................................................................................................... 12
5.2.2 Fluorescence ..................................................................................................................... 12
5.2.3 Raman Spectroscopy ........................................................................................................ 12
5.2.4 Comparison of Optical Sensors ........................................................................................ 13

6 Implementation of Cure Monitoring ................................................................................................... 13

6.1 Process Modelling and Control .................................................................................................... 13
6.2 Off-line Cure Assessment ............................................................................................................. 15
6.2.1 Physical Property Measurements ..................................................................................... 15
6.2.2 Chemical Property Measurements ................................................................................... 15
6.2.3 Comparison of Off-line Techniques ................................................................................. 16

1
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives

6.3 Quality Assurance ......................................................................................................................... 17

6.4 Comparison of Techniques ........................................................................................................... 18
6.4.1 Technical Considerations ................................................................................................. 18
6.4.2 Practical Considerations ................................................................................................... 19

7 The Way Ahead for Cure Monitoring .................................................................................................. 20

Additional References ................................................................................................................................... 20
Abbreviations and Acronyms ....................................................................................................................... 22
Abstracts ......................................................................................................................................................... 23
Index ............................................................................................................................................................... 99
Company Index............................................................................................................................................ 109

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2
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
1 Introduction
1.1 Aims and Scope
This review examines the current state of development
of cure monitoring techniques for composites and
adhesives. For the purposes of this review, cure
monitoring has been defined as the on-line or in-line
assessment of the degree-of-cure. That is, the degree-
of-cure is evaluated either on the product or in parallel
with production. This definition is considered to be
equivalent to real-time cure monitoring; a phrase that
is preferred by some authors.
The bulk of this review is devoted to coverage of the
range of techniques that can be used for cure
monitoring. The techniques have been grouped in terms
of the material properties that are followed during cure
processing: it is the properties of the materials being
processed that are the key to cure monitoring. This
results in a different classification to that generally used,
but has been chosen as it allows techniques following
the same changes to be discussed together. For instance,
all techniques that follow mechanical changes in the
curing material are discussed together, whatever the
technical basis of the measurement technique. This
approach has the consequence of considering optical
fibre techniques for sensing strain, separately from
optical fibre techniques that follow optical changes in
the material.
In addition to coverage of the cure monitoring
techniques, consideration has also been given to several
topics that are relevant to the implementation of cure
monitoring in manufacturing processes. These topics
relate to the context and application of cure monitoring.
The specific areas considered are:
1. process modelling, which covers methods that may
be used to provide the framework used to interpret
the cure monitoring data within the context of the
curing process,
2. off-line cure assessment, which covers laboratory
techniques that can be used to assess the degree-
of-cure, and
3. quality assurance, which outlines the role of cure
monitoring in providing a guarantee to users or
customers that a material has been cured
satisfactorily.
© Crown Copyright 2003
The Section on the implementation of cure monitoring
also reviews the technical and practical issues
associated with various cure monitoring techniques.
These are critically important for cure monitoring
technologies because ultimately their success can be
viewed in terms of the uptake of the technology by
material processors.
The remainder of this Introduction is devoted to a brief
outline of the progression of the cure reaction for
composites and adhesive and the potential benefits that
can be derived from the application of cure monitoring.
1.2 Cure of Composites and Adhesives
Many composite materials and adhesives are processed
by curing. The term ‘cure’ can be taken to mean the
development of a crosslinking network in a material
by chemical reaction. The major classes of curing
materials are:
• epoxies,
• polyesters,
• phenolics, and
• vinyl esters.
There are also a number of other resin types, which
are not so widely used. Composites and adhesives can
be used with a wide variety of manufacturing methods.
These vary from labour intensive methods, such as
hand-lay up, through to capital intensive techniques
such as autoclaving. However, the cure reaction at the
heart of these processes is the same.
The cure reaction can be considered to consist of two
stages during which the liquid resin first undergoes
gelation to form a gel, and then vitrification to become
the glassy solid that is the goal for a successful process.
This glassy solid may also undergo degradation, which
is, obviously, undesirable. These phases and reactions
are illustrated in Figure 1 and are discussed in more
detail below.
In the first stage the resin will be liquid, or perhaps a
paste, and it is at this stage that the resin can flow and
so be manipulated as required for processing. The way
in which this is done will be specific to the process
used. During this stage of cure the monomer will begin
to polymerise and there will be an increase in the
3
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
Figure 1
Typical progression of a cure reaction
average molecular weight. Initially, the increase in
viscosity will be relatively slow, but the rate will
increase with the formation of a three-dimensional
structure and gelation.
In terms of cure monitoring it is useful to know when
gelation occurs, as this is often critical to the process.
For instance, the resin may need to be completely
injected before gelation, the mould may be closed at
the gelation point or the temperature increased. The
gel is characterised by the presence of an infinite
network and the material will exhibit viscoelastic
properties.
As the bonds within the three-dimensional structure
increase, the network will stiffen, which will be
reflected in an increase in the glass transition
temperature (Tg) of the material. Eventually, as cure
progresses further, the glass transition temperature will
equal, and then exceed, the temperature that the
material is curing at. At this point the material
undergoes vitrification, i.e., it becomes a glass. This is
the desired phase for the material, although cure may
be allowed to continue, so achieving a higher degree-
of-cure, which is usually associated with better
properties of the material.
If cure progresses for too long at too high temperature
then degradation of the material will eventually take
place. Where there is a large variation in temperature
within the material, it is possible to have undercured
and degraded material within the same component,
which is most unsatisfactory. Where curing reactions
are strongly exothermic, there is the possibility that
the material will overheat, causing degradation. To
avoid this problem the main cure cycle normally uses
relatively low temperatures, as the temperature within
the material will increase. Curing is then completed
with a higher temperature post-cure.
4 © Crown Copyright 2003
Figure 1 presents a useful scheme although there may
be additional steps depending on the resin and the way
it is processed. Phase separation may be observed after
vitrification in certain resin systems and the
development of a second phase may be critical for
development of desired properties. It is also possible
to observe devitrification and char separately during
the degradation of the resin. Neither of these
transformations are acceptable in the processing of
composites and adhesives.
The role of cure monitoring is to provide information
on the progression of the cure reaction. Information
on the degree-of-cure, phase and properties of the
materials can be obtained, either directly or indirectly,
from cure monitoring. Such information can have great
value to a materials processor, which will be discussed
in the next section.
1.3 Benefits of Cure Monitoring
Cure monitoring can improve both the quality and
efficiency of cure processing of materials. Firstly, cure
monitoring can be used to ensure the quality of products
manufactured using curing material as it can confirm
that the cure reaction has proceeded as expected. This
can prevent wastage due to eventualities such as using
incorrect proportions of resin components, failure of
resin to react, poor mixing of resin or incorrect
processing conditions.
If the material is not cured sufficiently, then there may
be failure arising from:
• lower glass transition temperature,
• reduced mechanical properties,
• poor bonding with filler or substrate, or
• surface softness.
Depending on the application, this may only result in
minor inconvenience, such as poor surface finish, on
the other hand it may result in catastrophic failure in a
primary structure. The use of cure monitoring can
eliminate such eventualities.
Cure monitoring can improve the efficiency of
processing as it can identify critical points in the cure
reaction. This may be the gel point required for mould
closure, or the required degree-of-cure for removal of
the product. Therefore the cycle time for the product
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
can be reduced and optimised without danger of
producing incorrectly processed material.
A further benefit of successful cure monitoring is that
it can make it easier to adapt to batch to batch variations
of resin or to implement a new resin system. With a
modest amount of background research and
qualification the resin can be accepted for production,
without the need for historical quality control data.
Alongside technical research funded by research
councils and industry, research (a.1) and networking
(a.2) activities that have received support from
government, industry and academia demonstrate the
importance of cure monitoring to the competitiveness
of UK industry.
2 Techniques Monitoring Thermal
Properties
2.1 Temperature
In the vast majority of curing processes temperature
will be measured routinely. A practical difficulty with
the measurement of temperature is that there is often a
trade off between sensitivity and robustness. So,
thermocouples that are sufficiently responsive are
vulnerable to damage.
For resin systems that cure exothermically at room
temperature, measurement of temperature can be used
to indicate the degree-of-cure. With some background
knowledge, the maximum temperature obtained will
indicate the maximum reaction rate, so giving
confidence that the reaction is progressing
satisfactorily.
These measurements may follow either the mould or
the material, although there is inevitably
interdependence between these measurements. For
materials that are cured at elevated temperatures, it is
difficult to isolate heat generated by the material, so
this method will only be useful in a more limited way.
However, such measurements may be useful in thick
composite parts, where there is a danger of overcure
and degradation due to excessively high temperatures
in the centre of the part. The use of temperature
monitoring is a very basic method for following the
cure reaction, but can provide valuable information on
the progress of the cure reaction.
© Crown Copyright 2003
2.2 Thermal Conductivity
The thermal conductivity of curing material will
generally increase as the reaction progresses. It has been
shown for an epoxy resin that thermal conductivity
correlates well with measurements of the modulus and
strength of the material (209). This work proposed
thermal conductivity measurements as a non
destructive quality control check for material that has
been cured. It would be possible to apply this method
as an in-line method for cure monitoring, using the
achievement of a required thermal conductivity value
as a sign of cure completion.
An experimental method for the measurement of
thermal conductivity during processing has been
described (62). This method was demonstrated for
epoxy material cured in a press. Temperature values
were recorded from five thermocouples located at
different thicknesses within the material. The thermal
cycle for the materials was modified, so that it included
particular temperature ramps and isotherms that
allowed the measurement of thermal conductivity.
From analysis of the thermocouple temperatures at
these features it was possible to derive values of the
thermal conductivity. The main aim of this method was
to ensure that thick parts were completely cured, but it
would seem possible to extend this method to on-line
measurement of thermal conductivity. A limitation of
this method is that it is only strictly applicable below
the Tg, but the method will produce approximate
measurements above the Tg.
3 Techniques Monitoring Mechanical
Properties
3.1 Ultrasonic
Techniques for measurement of material properties by
transmission of ultrasound have been established for
several decades. These techniques are based on the
measurement of the velocity of an ultrasonic pulse
through a material, as illustrated in Figure 2.
The velocity is determined from accurate measurement
of the time that the pulse takes to travel between the
transmitter and receiver (the time of flight) combined
with knowledge of the thickness of the material. The
longitudinal modulus of the material (L) can then be
calculated from the expression
5
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
Figure 2
Schematic of ultrasonic transmission arrangement
L = ρVl 2
where ρ is the density of the material and Vl is the
longitudinal velocity. It can be seen from this
expression that a value for the density of the material
is required, which can prove challenging as this will
vary with both temperature and degree-of-cure.
Although it can be difficult to establish the density
accurately, the square dependence of modulus on
velocity means that changes in velocity are more
significant. There is also the possibility of errors arising
from viscoelastic behaviour of the test material,
although these can be eliminated in some cases.
Ultrasonic measurements may also be made in pulse-
echo mode, as illustrated in Figure 3. This method has
the advantage of only requiring access to one side of
the material as it measures the time taken for the
ultrasonic pulse to reflect off an interface, ideally the
reflection that corresponds to the opposite side of the
material will be easy to identify. However, the signal
will reflect off any interface in the material, which can
present difficulties in selecting the correct reflection
to indicate the properties of the curing material, for
instance when testing an adhesive joint. This may also
Figure 3
Schematic of ultrasonic pulse-echo arrangement
6 © Crown Copyright 2003
present a problem when testing filled material, as each
interface with the filler will reflect the ultrasonic pulse.
However, providing that the appropriate signal can be
identified, the pulse-echo method is of great value.
The link between ultrasonic measurements and static
mechanical testing after processing has been completed
has been reported for an epoxy resin (55). For any cure
monitoring technique it is essential that such a link
between on-line measurements and final properties is
well established, if users of the technique are to feel
confident in making decisions with on-line data. This
particular study found an excellent correlation between
the ultrasonic data and static mechanical results. This
supports the use of on-line ultrasonic measurements
as a substitute for post processing assessment of
properties.
As well as making the connection between ultrasonic
measurements and mechanical properties, it is also
beneficial to link on-line measurements with more
sophisticated physical and chemical measurements of
the degree-of-cure. Wide angle X-ray scattering
(WAXS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
determinations of the degree-of-cure have been
compared with ultrasonic measurements by Challis and
co-workers (107). This work found that the ultrasonic
technique showed good agreement with the WAXS and
NMR data and noted the potential of ultrasound
techniques for monitoring cure in an industrial
environment.
It is also possible to make ultrasonic measurements
using shear waves, rather than compression waves. This
method is more difficult to apply in practice, so is less
likely to be useful in on-line monitoring, but is
recognised as being more sensitive to the degree-of-
cure towards the end of the cure reaction, when much
of the network structure has developed (55, 107).
In general, ultrasonic techniques are mature. So, future
developments are likely to concern improvements in
the performance and availability of equipment for this
technique. This means that ultrasonic techniques are
good candidates for adoption by industry, as the
technology is well known, but there is good scope for
wider application.
3.2 Acoustic
An alternative to ultrasonic testing is acoustic wave
based methods. There can be advantages in the use of
acoustic methods, for instance where the materials
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
absorb ultrasonic waves or are highly filled. An
example of such a technique follows the change in
resonant frequency as the material cures. This change
can be analysed and interpreted as an increase in the
modulus, and therefore degree-of-cure, of the material.
3.3 Fibre Optic
Fibre optic strain sensors have mainly been applied to
composite materials for structural health monitoring.
It is possible to extend their use, so that they provide
information on strain during cure. Since resins
generally shrink during cure, these strains can provide
information on the degree-of-cure of the resin.
However, there must be a good bond between the resin
and the sensor for the strain to be transferred, which is
unlikely early in cure. It has been shown that for an
epoxy resin adhesive system, most of the shrinkage
took place during post cure ageing (60), which could
limit the value of this technique for on-line monitoring
and control of cycle times.
Integration of optical fibres into composite or adhesive
parts is far from trivial. There are a number of practical
difficulties that need to be overcome, such as keeping
the fibre straight and finding the ends of the fibre after
processing so that they can be connected. All these
problems must be dealt with in the context of an artefact
that can be regarded as extremely fragile by shop floor
standards.
Fibre optic strain sensors are based on the principle of
the Fabry-Pérot interferometer, which makes use of
multiple reflections between partially silvered surfaces.
These multiple reflections create multiple beams that
can interfere with each other. The large number of
beams means that the interferometer has an extremely
high resolution.
Fabry-Pérot sensors can be classified into four types,
1. intrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensors,
2. extrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensors,
3. in-line Fabry-Pérot sensors, and
4. fibre Bragg grating sensors.
Extrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensors and fibre Bragg grating
sensors have been used for cure monitoring in several
studies and these two types of sensors will be described
and discussed in turn.
© Crown Copyright 2003
3.3.1 Extrinsic Fabry-Pérot Sensor
A schematic of the extrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensor is
shown in Figure 4. The input fibre is a single-mode
fibre, while the reflection fibre is multi-mode.
Typically, these two fibres are inserted into a tight
fitting glass capillary and glued into place with epoxy
resin. The gauge length of the sensor is the distance
between the points where the capillary is adhered to
the fibres. The absolute cavity length is measured very
accurately using a Fabry-Pérot interferometer and so
the strain in the material can be determined with
accuracy.
The sensor arrangement of Liu and co-workers (200)
was tested for temperature sensitivity for temperatures
between 38 °C and 180 °C. In this range, the sensor
was found to be insensitive to temperature changes,
largely due to the fact that the quartz capillary and
optical fibre comprise of essentially the same material.
So, the difference in coefficient of thermal expansion
is negligible. This temperature range will cover most
curing processes, which gives confidence that
temperature sensitivity will not be a major source of
error for these sensors in cure monitoring applications.
Figure 4
Schematic of extrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensor
3.3.2 Fibre Bragg Grating Sensor
The fibre Bragg grating sensor is a periodic modulation
in the core of an optical fibre. The centre wavelength
of the light reflected from the Bragg grating is
dependent on the refractive index of the core and the
periodicity of the Bragg grating. The principle of the
fibre Bragg grating is illustrated in Figure 5.
In contrast to the extrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensor, the
Bragg grating sensor is very sensitive to changes in
temperature, as temperature affects both the refractive
index and the periodicity of the grating. Hence, it is
7
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
Figure 5
Schematic of fibre Bragg grating sensor
essential to devise a method for eliminating the effect
of temperature. It is possible to correct the output from
the sensor according to a thermocouple placed near the
sensor. An alternative approach is to place a second
sensor in the process environment, such that the
difference between response from the two sensors is
taken to be the effect of strains within the material.
Fibre Bragg grating sensors have been used
successfully to monitor cure of an epoxy composite
(193) and an epoxy resin adhesive (60). A study of both
extrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensors and fibre Bragg grating
sensors for cure monitoring of a carbon fibre laminate
(43) showed an excellent correlation between the strain
information obtained from the two types of sensors.
The strain information was used to identify the distinct
stages of the cure reaction. As an aside, the extrinsic
Fabry-Pérot sensor was also used to obtain information
on the residual strain of the composite material, which
can affect the properties of the final material.
3.4 Piezoelectric
Piezoelectric sensors are an alternative type of sensor
used for structural health monitoring and, as with fibre
optic sensors, their use has been extended to monitoring
the material during processing. The principle of the
sensors is based on the piezoelectric effect, that is, they
convert the mechanical deformation experienced by the
sensor to an electric signal. As with the optical sensors,
piezoelectric sensors are sensitive to temperature,
which must be corrected to obtain accurate data on the
degree-of-cure.
The principle and application of piezoelectric sensors
has been reported (197). This paper covers the principle
of the sensors and shows that the modulus, mass and
damping of the surrounding material is reflected in the
capacitance, inductance and resistance of the
8 © Crown Copyright 2003
piezoelectric material. It describes the application of
the sensors to the resin transfer moulding (RTM)
process. The sensors can detect the presence of the
liquid resin, as well as indicating the degree-of-cure of
the resin during the cure cycle. The use of piezoelectric
sensors has been demonstrated for the processing of
glass fibre laminates (270, a.3).
An extension of such work is to extend the monitoring
to follow the viscoelastic properties through processing
and during water immersion of the material (158, 169).
This illustrates the major advantage of piezoelectric
sensors, together with the Fabry-Pérot sensors, that they
can be used after processing has been completed to
monitor the properties of the material during service.
4 Techniques Monitoring Electrical
Properties
4.1 Electrical Techniques
There are a number of techniques that follow electrical
changes in the material as it cures. There are techniques
that are based on direct and alternating voltages.
Alternating voltage covers a broad spectrum of
frequencies. A selection of electrical techniques will
be discussed in this section, before considering
dielectric methods in more detail, as this is the best
developed of the cure monitoring techniques.
One direct voltage method uses an array of conductors
that are not in contact at the junction points, such that
the resin closes the circuit at each junction. A direct
voltage is applied and the signal is multiplexed so
information can be obtained from the individual
junctions. This method has been applied to the
monitoring of flow and cure for a RTM system (94).
The fact that information covering the whole
component could be obtained was cited as an advantage
compared to interdigitated dielectric sensors. Arrays
comprising of copper wire and carbon fibre were used.
The carbon fibre array has the advantage of being
compatible with the composite material.
An electrical technique using high frequency (in the
Megahertz range) electromagnetic waves has been
developed (103). Changes in the complex permittivity
were detected that indicated the degree-of-cure of
epoxy resin. This work has been extended (40) to allow
the use of carbon fibre as the conducting element in
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
the material, which (as with the conducting grid)
avoided introducing metallic conductors into the
composite material.
Dielectric techniques follow the progression of the cure
reaction through changes in the dielectric properties
of the material. Measurements of the dielectric
properties are made by analysing the response of the
material between a pair of electrodes with an alternating
voltage applied. The mobility of ions in the material
will be reflected in the conductance that is measured
by the electrodes. The details of sensors and
interpretation of the results for dielectric methods are
considered in the remainder of this section on electrical
techniques.
4.2 Dielectric Sensors
There are broadly two classes of dielectric sensor.
Firstly, there are parallel plate sensors, which are the
simplest form of electrodes and are more amenable to
theoretical analysis. This arrangement is illustrated in
Figure 6.
This type of dielectric sensor has been considered in
detail by McIlhagger and co-workers (92, 105). They
cite a number of advantages, such as the assessment of
material properties through the thickness of the
component without the requirement of introducing a
sensor within the material. It is also possible to adapt
this configuration such that the mould wall acts as one
of the electrodes.
The second class of dielectric sensor is the single
surface sensor, which usually consists of interdigitated
electrodes, illustrated in Figure 7. This sensor is
available in a variety of formats, such as combs or
spirals, and with various electrode spacings. The
Figure 6
Schematic of parallel plate dielectric sensors
© Crown Copyright 2003
Figure 7
Schematic of single surface dielectric sensor
sensors consist of an insulating substrate supporting
metallic electrodes.
The performance of the parallel plate and two types of
interdigitated comb sensor have been compared (170).
It was found that the presence of the sensor substrate
had a significant effect on the electrical signal from
the interdigitated sensors. Due to this, it was found that
one of the thermal events could only be detected by
the parallel plate sensor. It was also found that all three
sensors exhibited different temperature characteristics.
With any type of dielectric sensor it is essential that
they do not contact conductive material, as this will
result in the sensor short circuiting. This is a particular
issue where the material is a carbon fibre composite
material. A number of solutions have been proposed to
overcome this problem. Two of the most commonly
used are to enclose the sensor in polytetrafluoroethylene
(PTFE), which is relatively thin, or to enclose the sensor
in woven glass fibre, which allows the resin to
penetrate.
4.3 Interpretation of Dielectric Data
As summarised earlier, the dielectric techniques involve
the application of an alternating voltage and the
monitoring of the resulting current response. This can
be considered in terms of a complex permittivity (ε*),
which has a phase lag (δ) compared to the applied
voltage. The complex permittivity, can be treated as
having real and imaginary components, so
ε ∗ = ε ′ − iε ′′
where ε´ is the real permittivity, ε´´ is the complex
permittivity and i is the square root of -1. These
quantities provide information on the dipole motion,
so as this becomes restricted during solidification, the
permittivity will decrease. The principles underlying
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 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
dielectric measurements have been discussed in detail
by Mijovic and co-workers (323).
Pethrick (a.4) has presented a valuable overview of
dielectric properties for selected resins during cure.
These results are presented in terms of the dielectric
constant and dielectric loss (proportional to real and
imaginary permittivity respectively). Commonly used
resins are considered and features identifying
meaningful points in the cure are described and their
significance discussed.
Ionic conductivity is often quoted during the early
stages of cure as it is related to the viscosity of the
resin. It has been shown that viscosity ( η) is
approximately inversely proportional to the ionic
conductivity (σ) (288), so that
η = A.σ − B
where A and B are constants that are resin and
temperature specific. This allows the dielectric
properties to be related to the physical flow properties
of the resin. Consequently, log ion viscosity can be used
as a measure of cure progression. An example of typical
data for a curing reaction is presented in Figure 8. The
reaction is considered to be complete when the log ion
viscosity becomes constant.
An alternative approach to the presentation of dielectric
data is to present it in terms of the complex impedance
(Z), such that
Z = Z ′ − iZ ′′
where Z´ is the real impedance and Z´´ is the imaginary
impedance. The logs of the two complex impedance
Figure 8
Typical log ion viscosity data for a cure reaction
10
components are often presented against frequency, i.e.,
an impedance spectrum. Although the underlying data
is identical, this presentation allows frequency shifts
to be identified more readily.
A complete cure monitoring system based on
impedance measurement has been developed (97). This
system is based on the observation that most cure
processes have a characteristic impedance curve that
is independent of the details of the process. Hence,
comparison with this curve will indicate where the
reaction has progressed to and the process equipment
can be controlled accordingly.
There are two studies originating from Renault,
concerning dielectric cure monitoring of a glass fibre-
epoxy in a compression mould. The first of these studies
(212) showed that combining dielectric and
temperature information allowed the degree-of-cure to
be calculated. These measurements were supported by
differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements
to determine the residual cure. A mathematical model
was proposed that allowed the degree-of-cure to be
forecast for both isothermal and non-isothermal cases.
Although this model was empirical, it did show
applicability to other cure studies.
This work was extended to cover thicker composite
parts that exhibited a cure gradient (167). In this case a
number of interdigitated sensors were embedded within
the plies of the composite material, which allowed
information on the through thickness cure to be
obtained. Both of these studies (167, 212) were based
on the collection of ionic conductivity data during
processing.
Dielectric measurements have also been applied to
monitoring the quality of glass fibre-polyester
pultrusions (298). Two types of dielectric sensor were
applied to the process, alongside pressure
measurements. An interdigitated sensor was
incorporated in the part and drawn through the
process, so it can only be used once. A second sensor
was a parallel plate sensor in the die. Both sensors
were sensitive to the process conditions, although it
is not possible to compare the outputs as they are
exposed to different volumes of material. For this
application it was suggested that the parallel plate
sensor would be of more benefit as it provided a
constant output.
It should be clear that dielectric methods are probably
the best developed techniques for cure monitoring,
although there remain barriers to the implementation
of these techniques.
© Crown Copyright 2003
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
5 Techniques Monitoring Optical
Properties
All the optical methods described here use optical fibres
to deliver and recover signals from the material. These
methods either follow changes in the refractive index
of the material or the spectral absorption of the material.
There are several spectroscopic methods that can be
applied for cure monitoring, which will each be
considered.
5.1 Refractive Index
As a resin cures, the refractive index will increase and
it is possible to detect this change using optical fibre
sensors. There are two types of sensor that have been
used for monitoring the refractive index of composites
and adhesives during cure; the reflection sensor and
the evanescent wave sensor.
The reflection sensor is simply a termination of the
fibre in the material, as illustrated in Figure 9, and is
sometimes called a Fresnel sensor because it is based
on Fresnel reflection. At the end of the fibre there is an
interface between the fibre and the curing material. At
this interface a light pulse is partially reflected,
depending on the refractive index of the curing material
(see for example 222).
The second type of sensor is an evanescent sensor,
which is illustrated in Figure 10. This type of sensor
consists of a portion of the optical fibre that has had
the cladding removed, so the core is in contact with
the curing material. Typically the unclad portion of the
fibre is 15 to 20 cm in length. A light pulse that is
incident on this surface will generate an evanescent
wave in the surrounding material, providing that the
refractive index of the fibre core is greater than that of
Figure 9
Schematic of optical fibre reflection sensor
© Crown Copyright 2003
Figure 10
Schematic of optical fibre evanescent sensor
the surrounding material. This can be an important
consideration as it may be necessary to use optical
fibres with high refractive index, which are more
expensive. The intensity of the reflected and evanescent
light depends on the relationship between the refractive
indices of the fibre and material. The details of this
method can be found in reference (236).
The two types of optical fibre sensors for monitoring
refractive index have been used to study the same
epoxy-amine resin (193). The sensors behaved
differently during the temperature ramp at the start of
cure, but during the isotherm, both were sensitive to
the curing of the material. The signal from the reflection
sensor was proportional to the refractive index, whereas
the signal from the stripped cladding sensor was
inversely proportional to the refractive index. Both
types of sensor identified the cure as complete at
approximately the same time. However, the differences
in response at the start of cure suggest that applying
these sensors for non-isothermal cure would present
significant additional challenges.
5.2 Spectroscopic
Spectroscopic techniques are the most meaningful
methods for assessing the degree-of-cure, as they
directly measure the chemical species that are present
in the resin. This is in contrast to other cure monitoring
techniques which measure the change in a property of
the resin that can then be related to the degree-of-cure.
There are a number of different approaches that can be
adopted for spectroscopic cure monitoring, in terms of
the sensors that are used and the spectroscopic
technique that is selected to obtain information about
the curing material.
There are two types of sensor that are widely used for
spectroscopic cure monitoring, which are the
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 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
evanescent wave sensor and the transmission sensor.
The evanescent wave sensor was described in the last
section and illustrated in Figure 10. The transmission
sensor consists of an optical fibre with a portion of the
fibre completely removed, as shown in Figure 11.
Clearly, alignment of the two parts of the optical fibre
is critical for this type of sensor. This could be achieved
by incorporating the two parts into the mould or fixing
the fibres within a structure, although either approach
could limit the application of this method to on-line
cure monitoring.
Figure 11
Schematic of optical fibre transmission sensor
5.2.1 Infrared Spectroscopy
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy has
been used frequently for off-line studies of curing. More
recently this has been adapted for use with fibre optic
sensors to monitor the degree-of-cure during
processing. This technique has been applied to the cure
monitoring of a composite laminate in an autoclave
(278). An evanescent sensor was used and was enclosed
in prepreg before being introduced to the autoclave.
On-line information on the reactants, intermediates and
final products was successfully obtained. However, it
was noted that the fibre optic used was expensive and
fragile.
The infrared spectroscopy technique has been adapted
for on-line monitoring of the amine concentration in
resin (65). This is a rather different approach to that
generally used, but allows the stoichiometry and mixing
of resin to be verified before the resin is used for
production. In this particular case the system was
applied to a filament winding process where the resin
is mixed and then used to impregnate the fibre tow
before winding. Therefore on-line monitoring could
detect any problems with the resin before winding and
curing time is lost because the resin will not cure
correctly.
12
5.2.2 Fluorescence
A variation on the spectroscopy technique is the use of
fluorescence to obtain a signal from the material. As
the degree-of-cure increases, excited molecules will
increasingly lose energy by fluorescence rather than
vibration. This is not the case for all resins, but it is
possible to add a fluorescing agent. These agents can
be dispersed in the resin or chemically bonded to the
monomer. To study fluorescence it is necessary to
supply excitation light to the material and to monitor
the resulting emission light.
The monitoring of intrinsic fluorescence of an epoxy
by a reflection sensor embedded in the bulk of the resin
has been described (309). In this case the fluorescing
agent is diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DDS), which is a
curing agent. The shift of the DDS spectra was
correlated with the degree-of-cure determined by FTIR.
This method has the advantage of being applicable to
any system that uses DDS as the curing agent, without
requiring the addition of a dye to use the fluorescence
technique.
Later work used only an evanescent sensor for
monitoring fluorescence in an epoxy resin (211).
Fluorescent dyes were used with an epoxy resin that
was injected into a glass fabric. In this case it was found
that wavelength shifts during cure could be used to
calculate the monomer conversion, which was
determined independently by FTIR. It was also found
that resin degradation could be detected with the sensor.
Some recent work has focussed on the selection and
use of fluorescent dyes for use with UV curing
polyurethane adhesives (69) and UV curing acrylic
adhesives (51). Both of these studies monitored the
fluorescence spectrum, which was correlated with
FTIR measurements in real time and dynamic
mechanical analysis (DMA) off-line. This study
revealed a linear relationship between the intensity of
the fluorescence and the degree-of-cure. Wavelength
shifts were also observed, but these were specific to
the dye and resin used and no overall trends were
observed. For acrylic adhesives (51) it was found that
information on the curing mechanisms could also be
obtained using fluorescence, which it was not possible
to detect by FTIR.
5.2.3 Raman Spectroscopy
The use of Raman spectroscopy for cure monitoring is
asserted to provide better quality data for the analysis
© Crown Copyright 2003
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
of curing material, largely because it overcomes errors
introduced by broad fluorescence of the material. The
development of a near infrared Raman spectrometer
for use with optical fibres has been described (283).
This system was used successfully with a ‘two fibre’
approach that uses an excitation fibre to supply the laser
signal to the material. This excitation fibre is
surrounded by a number (in this study six or eighteen)
of optical fibres to detect the response from the material,
which penetrates between the tow of optical fibres. This
approach was found to work well in the laboratory but
was impractical to introduce into a composite material.
A single fibre approach is required for on-line use. In
this case a single fibre is used to both excite the material
with the laser, and to detect the response from the
material. A single fibre probe for Raman spectroscopy
has been described (251) and this work has been
extended to determine degree-of-cure with greater
precision (214). It was shown by comparing the Raman
spectroscopy results with DSC measurements that
accuracies of better than 1% were obtained. Although
it was noted that results at greater than 99% cure
exhibited errors, it is hard to see that this would be a
significant problem for practical applications.
5.2.4 Comparison of Optical Sensors
A comparison of several types of optical fibre sensors
has been reported (176). This study considered a
transmission sensor for infrared spectroscopy, an
evanescent sensor for refractive index and an
evanescent sensor for infrared spectroscopy. It was
reported that all the sensors were sensitive to the cure,
but while the refractive index and transmission sensor
exhibited good agreement, the evanescent sensor for
infrared spectroscopy indicated a faster rate of cure. It
is suggested that this effect arises because of the very
small volume of resin that is analysed by this sensor,
which is reduced further as cure progresses.
Although fluorescent sensors are not considered in this
study, it provides a useful overview of the advantages
and disadvantages of the various type of sensors. Both
evanescent techniques require special optical fibres and
infrared spectroscopy can exhibit low sensitivity. The
major practical disadvantage of the transmission sensor
is the need to ensure that the fibres are aligned, but this
technique provides good quality information using
standard silica optical fibres. For straightforward cure
monitoring (rather than chemical analysis) the
monitoring of refractive index was found to be the most
convenient by this study.
© Crown Copyright 2003
6 Implementation of Cure Monitoring
The previous four chapters of this review have covered
notable cure monitoring techniques, classified
according to the materials properties that are monitored
during processing to provide information on the degree-
of-cure. Of course, these techniques should not be
judged in terms of their technical elegance or
sophistication alone. These techniques have been
developed to assist the processing of curing materials,
and for commercial enterprises will be expected to be
reflected in the financial and technical performance of
the process.
The aim of this section on Implementation of Cure
Monitoring is to address some of the issues that will
influence the decision to apply cure monitoring and
the success of the activity. It should be noted that none
of the techniques are likely to provide all the data
required for process monitoring. At the minimum, it is
usually necessary to cross-reference cure monitoring
results with temperature data. However, it is more likely
that cure monitoring results will be interpreted with
the assistance of a process model and alongside results
that have been obtained from off-line cure assessment,
i.e., measurements of degree-of-cure after processing
is complete. Methods for these two topics will be
discussed in this section, together with how cure
monitoring can contribute to quality assurance.
6.1 Process Modelling and Control
Process modelling is used here as a general term to
cover a range of approaches. In the broadest terms it
may be used to describe any system or algorithm that
relates measured variables with unmeasured variables
in the process. At the most basic level this will consist
of a ‘same as last time’ approach. This means that a
process will be passed as proceeding satisfactorily
because on-line cure monitoring results are similar to
previous results for the process that have produced
acceptable material. This straightforward model can
be effective, but usually relies on an assumption that a
number of factors are constant, which makes it
vulnerable to perturbation, although this may be
acceptable for the benefits of simplicity.
An elegant framework for process modelling is
provided by the time-temperature-transformation
(TTT) diagrams of Gilham (a.5). TTT diagrams are
essentially phase diagrams for curing materials and
identify the phases and transformations with time and
temperature. This approach was established for
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 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
thermosetting resins and the TTT diagram is determined
for isothermal cure of a material. A development from
the TTT diagram is the continuous-heating-
transformation (CHT) diagram (330). As the name
suggests, the CHT diagram is for a situation where
curing material is subject to a linear increase in
temperature with time. The CHT diagram allows the
time that transformations take place to be calculated.
The use of TTT and CHT diagrams allow optimum
cure programmes to be developed with relative ease.
It is also possible to use TTT and CHT diagrams to
produce a prediction of the effect of changes in a cure
programme during processing.
There are several more complex models that attempt
complete treatments for the curing system. A scheme
for such models has been described (190) that takes
time, temperature and dielectric data as real-time input
parameters to produce predictions for resin viscosity
and glass transition temperature (T g ). Accurate
predictions of these quantities are highly desirable, but
there is inevitably a cost in terms of the complexity
and detail. In this case, submodels for heat transfer,
kinetic, structural, chemoviscosity, dielectric relaxation
and ionic conductivity are all required. A formidable
task, although good progress is being made towards
this goal.
A particular problem arises, when thick sections of
material are required, as the variation in temperature,
and therefore variation of degree-of-cure, through the
thickness of the material can be very significant.
Predictions for such composite materials were
calculated based on measured chemical and physical
parameters (180). This work was later improved and
extended (29, 30). The method outlined in these studies
uses data from heat flux sensors external to the material.
It was found that for optimal curing of thick sections
of composite materials, it was necessary to introduce a
cooling stage to the cure cycle, which prevented
overheating in the centre of the component. The
optimum start and end of this cooling stage was
indicated by the data from the heat flux sensors,
although smoothing of this data was critical. This
approach worked well and improved the quality of
material produced, although the limitation of using a
one-dimensional heat transfer model meant that cooling
losses at the edge of the component were neglected.
This problem could be addressed by using a three-
dimensional heat transfer model.
A similar problem of ensuring uniform cure of
pultrusions has been addressed using finite element
analysis (FEA) (50). Uneven heating, and therefore
curing, of hollow or uneven pultrusion sections can be
14
problematic. The first step was to develop an algorithm
relating the die heater temperature to the degree-of-
cure profile through the thickness of the material. This
algorithm was implemented with a three dimensional
treatment by FEA on a pultrusion line to control the
die heaters. The algorithm was found to be stable and
produced C-section and hollow pultrusions with the
desired degree-of-cure, throughout the material.
Another issue associated with process modelling is how
to use the information for controlling processing. A
simple, and often perfectly acceptable approach, is to
cure the material until on-line cure monitoring indicates
that the material is sufficiently cured, at which point
the material can be removed from the process line. Of
course it is possible to use the information from on-
line monitoring in a more sophisticated way to control,
for instance, temperatures and pressures. One such
scheme has been described (35) that uses the output of
an evanescent wave optical fibre sensor to provide
information on the degree-of-cure. This information is
then used to control the temperature of the mould to
maintain the rate of increase of degree-of-cure at a
desired value.
An expert system has been used to control the cure of
carbon fibre-phenolic material (271). In this case the
role of the expert system was divided into three
components:
1. the ‘observer’, which receives the signals from the
cure monitoring sensors,
2. the ‘thinker’, applies the algorithms and makes
decisions,
3. the ‘stoker’, interprets the current process
parameters and implements changes.
There is not a great deal of detail on how these three
subfunctions are put into practice, but this is an
appealing model for describing how cure monitoring
can be applied. It can be seen how various aspects of
cure monitoring technology can fit into each of the three
categories. For successful implementation these three
components must form an unbroken feedback loop.
Taking a step back from the various approaches to
process modelling and control it can be seen that there
is no end to the detail and complexity that can be
included. At some point it is necessary to reflect on
how the data will be used and critically assess whether
greater accuracy justifies the additional work required.
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 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
6.2 Off-line Cure Assessment
Off-line cure assessment has been covered in far greater
detail in an earlier Review Report devoted to the subject
(318). In this review, the subject is considered from
the perspective of using cure assessment to support cure
monitoring and identify issues that impact on-line and
in-line cure monitoring.
There are a variety of techniques that can be used to
measure degree-of-cure after processing has been
completed. Generally, off-line measurements allow greater
control of the testing environment, which makes
reproducible measurement far more straightforward and
allows a wider range of techniques to be used. It is worth
noting that many of these techniques have on-line
analogues, although, the greater flexibility of sample form
and shape increases the number of possible techniques.
For discussion, the techniques have been classified as
either physical or chemical property measurements.
6.2.1 Physical Property Measurements
There are a variety of techniques that assess the physical
properties of a curing material to provide an indirect
measure of the degree-of-cure, such as
• mechanical testing,
• hardness testing,
• dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA),
• torsional braid analysis (TBA),
• dielectric analysis (DEA), and
• deflection temperature under load (DTUL).
Measurements for quality control are often based on
standard tests for mechanical properties or hardness. The
use of mechanical tests has the combined advantages
that they are generally straightforward and that they
provide information on the desired property of the
finished material, rather than a more abstract measure
of the degree-of-cure. Although these properties develop
during the cure reaction, they can be greatly influenced
by factors other than the degree-of-cure.
Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is a technique
that applies a sinusoidally varying load and follows
the complex strain response of the sample material.
From this information, storage and loss moduli can be
© Crown Copyright 2003
determined. DMA usually offers the greatest sensitivity
to property changes at the Tg. Examples of the studies
that use DMA to characterise a curing material are (58,
91, a.6). DMA has also been used to produce a model
for the development of the storage modulus and the
increase in Tg of an epoxy material (a.7).
A particular form of dynamic mechanical test is the
torsional braid analysis (TBA), which is a torsion
pendulum consisting of a glass fibre substrate to support
the curing material. For the study of curing materials
it is usually necessary to enclose the sample within a
furnace. Oscillations are induced in the pendulum,
which are allowed to proceed freely. The frequency
and damping of the induced oscillations are sensitive
to the mechanical properties of the curing material. The
use of this technique to formulate TTT and CHT
diagrams has been described (a.8).
The principles of dielectric analysis (DEA) were
discussed in the context of on-line dielectric methods.
Generally, the only significant difference is that off-
line measurement is far more convenient. The same
range of sensor types and options for interpretation
apply for both on-line and off-line measurements.
Deflection temperature under load (DTUL) is a
technique which follows the deflection of a beam of
material under fixed stress as the temperature is
increased. The temperature at which the beam deforms
by a specified strain (0.2% for plastics and 0.1% for
composites) is the DTUL. This technique was previously
known as heat deflection temperature (HDT).
6.2.2 Chemical Property Measurements
Examples of techniques that assess cure through the
measurement of chemical properties are:
• differential scanning calorimetry (DSC),
• temperature modulated differential scanning
calorimetry (TMDSC),
• thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).
• gas chromatography,
• infrared spectroscopy,
• Raman spectroscopy, and
• nuclear magnetic resonance.
15
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is a technique
which determines the difference in heat flux into a
specimen and a reference. This allows the
determination of the enthalpy of a reaction. DSC is
often used as the reference technique for evaluating
the degree-of-cure. The degree-of-cure, α, is calculated
from the expression,
ΔHo − ΔHt
α=
ΔHo
where ΔHo is the enthalpy of the cure reaction for
uncured resin and ΔHt is the enthalpy of the cure
reaction for test material. The appeal of DSC as a
reference technique is that it is straightforward to
calculate a value for the degree-of-cure from DSC
measurements. Examples of recent studies where DSC
has been used to determine the degree-of-cure include
(47, 58, 74).
DSC has also been used in numerous studies to
determine cure kinetics, such as (31, 41, 47). A
development of DSC is temperature modulated DSC
(TMDSC). A temperature modulation is superimposed
on the temperature programme. This modulation results
in complex heat flow data, which may be resolved into
heat flow components. TMDSC is claimed to offer
improved sensitivity and resolution compared to DSC.
TMDSC may also be used for determining cure
kinetics. Recently, a general procedure of the
determination of cure kinetics by TMDSC was
proposed (a.9) and verified by application to a three
component epoxy system.
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) follows the weight
change of a sample following a defined temperature
programme. This can be used for the study of materials
that exhibit a weight loss during cure, such as phenolics.
Gas chromatography can measure the quantity of
unreacted monomer material present in a sample.
However, it can present difficulties to extract the
volatile monomer material from the polymer matrix.
The principal benefit of the technique is that it is
sensitive to very low levels of a component.
Infrared spectroscopy is a type of vibrational
spectroscopy, which can identify and quantify
functional groups. This technique can provide much
information on the progress of the cure reaction and
can provide degree-of-cure information. A limitation
of the technique is that it may not be used with heavily
filled materials that do not allow transmission of the
infrared radiation. Raman spectroscopy can also be
16
used for off-line cure assessment. This technique is
based on the inelastic scattering of infrared radiation
and, like infrared spectroscopy, can be used to
determine the degree-of-cure.
Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) provides structural
information on a material through study of the magnetic
properties of the nuclei. Samples must contain
particular nuclei and are studied in a strong magnetic
field. This technique is certainly a research tool, rather
than an option for routine testing of materials. For
instance, a recent study used NMR as a reference
technique for comparison with results from ultrasonic
measurements (107).
6.2.3 Comparison of Off-line Techniques
As mentioned earlier in the context of on-line
spectroscopic techniques, direct measures of the
chemical species are the most meaningful in
determining the degree-of-cure. A comparison of
several techniques for cure assessment (114) considered
FTIR, DSC and ultrasonic measurements. In this case,
it was argued that FTIR was preferable as it produced
the most accurate data on degree-of-cure through the
course of the complete reaction.
The glass transition temperature (Tg) is often measured
to assess cure. The increase in Tg is a good indication
of cure progression and is often specified for materials
as proof that the material is cured sufficiently. However,
it is not trivial to relate Tg to the degree-of-cure. It is
possible to ‘calibrate’ Tg to the degree-of-cure. Such
an approach has been described (71) for an amine-
epoxy curing material. It was found that exponential
equations could be used to relate the degree-of-cure to
the Tg. Different equations were required for values of
degree-of-cure above or below 0.55. It was thought that
this value of degree-of-cure probably corresponded to
gelation.
An interlaboratory comparison for measurement of Tg
for composites and adhesives, showed that DSC and
DMA can give significantly different values for Tg of
the same material (a.10). Although, from a technical
viewpoint this is reasonable, as the two techniques
measure different properties, it can lead to problems
as logically a single value for Tg would be expected.
There can be a similar problem with defining the
gelation point as it is not universally defined between
different techniques.
For the measurement of Tg, the preferred technique is
often DMA, as DSC can have poor sensitivity and DEA
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 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives

is not commonly adopted for routine testing. A problem This variation in material properties will have a
with measuring glass transition temperature by thermal different effect on different techniques. Some
analysis techniques is that the sample is heated during techniques measure relatively large volumes of
the test. This heating may progress the cure reaction materials, such as ultrasonic methods and parallel plate
during the test, so the reported Tg may be higher and dielectric methods, where properties are averaged
the sample will be changed by the test. through the thickness of the material. Where a result is
averaged across the thickness of the material, it is
essential to have an appreciation of the variation that
is contained within that result.
6.3 Quality Assurance
On the other hand evanescent wave sensors or
Consideration of cure monitoring up to this point has
interdigitated dielectric sensors measure a very small
focussed on the use of results within the processing
volume of material surrounding the sensor. This
environment, or, at most, comparison with post
presents an opportunity to place a number of sensors
processing quality control. There is however, a wider
at different locations within the component, so the
opportunity for cure monitoring to provide assurance
degree-of-cure can be seen at different locations. This
to purchasers and users of the materials or components
is potentially reassuring, although it must be balanced
that have been produced.
against creating vast amounts of data that it is difficult
to use effectively.
A very common aspiration is to demonstrate a good
correlation between on-line results and the performance
It is important that the difference in the meaning of
of the material in quality control tests, and ultimately
results from these two broad classes of sensors are
the performance of the materials in service. Dielectric
appreciated as one class of sensors report data averaged
techniques are the most advanced in their use for quality
across the material, while the other report results for a
control. The application of dielectric analysis for the
particular location within the material. When probing
quality control of sheet moulding compound (SMC)
very locally (e.g., optical fibre techniques) it is possible
and bulk moulding compound has been described
that the material close to the sensor may not be
(282). In this case, critical points from the cure
representative of the bulk. For instance because of
monitoring data were extracted and compared
segregation at the surface or thermal transfer along the
statistically with a population of samples that has
fibre.
previously passed. This allowed swift assessment of
parts against strict limits.
The availability of international standards would be of
great help to the use of cure monitoring for quality
An alternative approach to qualification of
assurance. However, there are currently no international
manufactured materials, which also is based on
standards covering on-line cure monitoring. Although
dielectric measurements, has been described (a.11). The
confirmation of the degree-of-cure has been recognised
processing of material that is the subject of this paper
as critical for quality assessment of composite materials
has traditionally relied on the mechanical testing of
(a.12).
samples after processing has been completed. The
objective was to develop a system of cure monitoring
that could dispense with the sample testing. This was There are standards that are relevant to aspects of cure
achieved by curing a DEA specimen separately using monitoring. These cover generic measurements to
a temperature profile that followed the temperature of assess cure properties, the use of cure assessment
the lagging thermocouple in the autoclave. Hence, methods or guidance on the techniques that are relevant
dielectric data is obtained for the least cured part of to cure assessment. These are listed in Table 1.
the component.
There is a general problem with establishing standard
With the use of any analysis technique, it is always test methods that they can appear either too specific,
necessary to consider how representative, and therefore with a limited scope, or too generic, with procedures
how meaningful, an analysis result is. For a that are too generalised. For technologies such as cure
homogeneous material, the sampling of the material is monitoring there will be a substantial challenge in
less relevant. However for composites and adhesives establishing standardised procedures.
there is a good chance that the material is
inhomogeneous, due to the use of fillers and fibres and
it is possible that the resin itself is inhomogeneous,
with phase separation.

© Crown Copyright 2003 17

 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives

Table 1 Standards relevant to cure monitoring

Standard Year Title
ISO 12114 1997 Fibre reinforced plastics. Thermosetting moulding compounds. Determination of
cure characteristics.
ASTM D 3532 1999 Standard test method for gel time of carbon fire-epoxy prepreg.
ASTM D 4217 2002 Standard test method for gel time of thermosetting coating powder.
ASTM D 5028 1996 Standard test method for curing properties of pultrusion resins by thermal analysis.
ASTM D 4473 2001 Standard test method for plastics. Dynamic Mechanical Properties. Cure Behaviour.
ASTM D 3795 2000 Standard test method for thermal flow, cure, and behaviour properties of pourable
thermosetting materials by torque rheometer.
ASTM D 3795 2000 Standard test method for thermal flow, cure, and behaviour properties of pourable
thermosetting materials by torque rheometer
ISO 11357-1 1997 Part 1, Plastics. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Part 1. General principles.
ISO 6721-1 2001 Plastics. Determination of dynamic mechanical properties. Part 1. General principles.

6.4 Comparison of Techniques
6.4.1 Technical Considerations
As discussed in Section 1.2, there are several classes
of curing materials and numerous formulations for each
of these classes of materials. In addition, there will be
variations from batch to batch of nominally the same
formulation. On the other hand there is also a wide
range of processing methods that use curing material.
The result of this is that it is very difficult to be
prescriptive in the choice of cure monitoring technique,
i.e., no single technique will be universally applicable
to a particular material, or a particular process.
The scope of this review has covered the spectrum of
cure monitoring techniques that have been developed.
It should be recognised that this covers a wide range
of technical disciplines, which presents challenges in
comparing the techniques as the only universal feature
is the curing material that is being monitored. However,
this Section will attempt to draw together some of the
studies that have considered cure monitoring by more
than one technique.
The use of optical fibre for sensing mechanical
properties and spectroscopy has been considered
separately in this review, although in many reviews
they will be considered together. They have been
separated here as they measure unrelated properties of
the material, and in this report the application is given
precedence over the technology. In addition, it has been
noted that the function of the fibres is different in the
two types of techniques (283). For monitoring
mechanical properties, a very small and delicate sensor
is present on the optical fibre, whereas for spectroscopic
monitoring the fibre merely transmits light to and from
the material, a less demanding function.
Although there are practical examples of all the
techniques being used to improve processing, ultrasonic
and dielectric techniques can be viewed as being the
most established techniques. However, there is little
similarity between the usage of the two techniques.
Ultrasonic techniques have been used for some time and
they provide information on the modulus of the curing
material. However, ultrasonic techniques are generally
mature and there are unlikely to be major jumps in the
development of ultrasonic techniques. Progress is likely
to focus on reduction in cost and improvements in the
quality and reliability of the equipment.
On the other hand, dielectric techniques are the focus
of substantial development work and are often claimed
to be the most promising cure monitoring techniques.
Certainly, there are a number of appealing features with
dielectric techniques, as there are a variety of sensors
and detailed information on the cure progress may be
obtained. However, the adoption of these techniques
in higher volume processes may not be straightforward
as there is not a consensus on the best approach to
interpretation of the results and the quantities measured
can appear abstract.

18 © Crown Copyright 2003

 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
A comparison of several techniques for cure monitoring
(114) considered FTIR and ultrasonic measurements,
alongside DSC measurements. It was found that FTIR
was most sensitive early in cure, before structure
formed, as it is sensitive to the chemical changes in
the material. As cure progresses and mechanical
properties develop the ultrasonic technique became
more sensitive. Degree-of-cure calculation from FTIR
and DSC showed reasonable, but not exact, agreement
Results from dielectric and ultrasonic techniques for a
carbon fibre-epoxy prepreg have been compared (106).
It was found that there was excellent agreement
between resistivity, from the dielectric method, and the
speed of sound, from the ultrasonic method. Although
the individual techniques may not be feasible for a
specific application, generally the data will be valid
from either technique. With no significant technical
differences, the choice of technique will be largely
driven by practical issues of implementing cure
monitoring.
The use of various types of optical fibre sensors for
cure monitoring of an amine-epoxy has been reported
(193). The sensors used were evanescent wave sensors
for refractive index and evanescent wave and
transmission sensors for infrared spectroscopy. All
methods were sensitive to the cure of the material,
however there were discrepancies in the data reported
by different types of sensor. Proposed reasons to
account for this were interaction between the resin and
the fibre, inaccurate correlation of refractive index with
the degree-of-cure and local variations that had a
significant effect on the evanescent wave sensor. Some
of these difficulties are related to sampling of the
materials, but significant problems can arise in
obtaining accurate technical results from any of the
techniques.
An even more wide ranging study of cure monitoring
techniques has been conducted for a carbon fibre-
phenolic composite (271). This study reported on the
use of thermal, ultrasonic, interdigitated dielectric and
extrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensors. In this case, the
ultrasonic technique was not successful; this was
though to be due to degradation of the couplant. It was
also found that the extrinsic Fabry-Pérot sensor
degraded during cure of the material. However, the
dielectric technique was used successfully and
indication of the critical point for mould closure was
obtained. However, the final observation from this
study concerns the durability of sensors and their
vulnerability in the manufacturing process. For
implementation to be worthwhile the technology must
be right, however it is essential to consider how the
© Crown Copyright 2003
techniques will fare with repeated use in a
manufacturing process.
6.4.2 Practical Considerations
There are a whole range of practical considerations
before cure monitoring is implemented. Many of these
will be specific to the individual process, but there are
several generic issues, such as location of sensors and
cost that will be considered in this Section. In addition,
it should be remembered that safe operation must also
be considered. With the exception of techniques using
lasers, the techniques possess little inherent risks.
However, many of the processes will involve elevated
temperatures and pressures, and perhaps harmful
chemicals. It is important that any cure monitoring
method does not expose people to any of these hazards.
The most fundamental difference between sensors is
whether the sensors are permanently housed in a mould,
so are used repeatedly, or are placed within the curing
materials, so are used only once. Where sensors are
used in the mould, some sensors only require access to
one side of the mould, while others require access to
both sides. This can influence the choice of technique
where there is only one side to the mould, for instance
hand lay up, as it will not usually be possible to use a
method which requires access to both sides of the
material. The common usage of sensors for several of
the cure monitoring techniques is described in Table 2.
The presence of cure monitoring sensors in high
performance materials can have a deleterious effect on
the properties of the material with decreases in
toughness and strength reported. However, if structural
health monitoring is desired, for instance by optical
fibre sensors, their presence will be desirable. In this
case, the same sensors can be used during processing
and in service. In fact, their subsequent use for
monitoring is the strongest argument for the use of
optical fibre sensors. Otherwise the difficulty of
introducing a straight, intact optical fibre to the material
will prohibit their use in most applications.
Clearly, the location of sensors will have an impact on
the cost of a cure monitoring technique. It will
obviously be cheaper to reuse the same sensors, than
use a new sensor for each component. However, the
cost of sensors may only be a relatively small
contribution to the overall cost of implementing cure
monitoring.
No attempt will be made here to assess the absolute
costs of implementing cure monitoring, but to highlight
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 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives
Table 2 Selection of cure monitoring methods and common usage of sensors
Cure monitoring method
Ultrasonic, transmission
Ultrasonic, pulse-echo
Optical fibre sensors
Dielectric, parallel plate
Dielectric, interdigitated
some of the factors that need to be considered. For
instance, the ease with which the sensors can be
incorporated can affect the cost. For in-mould sensors,
there can be a significant initial cost associated with
incorporating sensors into the mould, but once in place,
they should have minimal impact. For in-material
sensors, they will need to be incorporated in each new
component. For interdigitated sensors this should not
be too demanding, but can present a major challenge
with optical fibre sensors.
7 The Way Ahead for Cure
Monitoring
Cure monitoring is an active area of academic research
and industrial development and there are ongoing
research programmes to produce new techniques and
develop existing techniques. In terms of
implementation there have been several notable
successes, where cure monitoring has been successfully
used in a commercial environment. The benefits are
generally observed in terms of improvements of both
efficiency and quality.
It would be fair to say that cure monitoring is nowhere
near fulfilling its potential to improve manufacturing.
Many commercial operations currently rely on either
temperature monitoring or off-line cure assessment and
there may be a reluctance to tamper with a process that
is working successfully. This factor, combined with a
perception of high cost and a requirement for technical
expertise has hindered adoption of cure monitoring
techniques. Both research and implementation have
tended to be in large companies operating high value-
low volume manufacturing processes, where the capital
and staff initially required to implement cure
monitoring can more easily be found.
20
Common usage of sensors
In-mould, two sided
In-mould, single sided
In-material
In-mould, two sided
In-material
To a large extent these barriers will be addressed
through cure monitoring acquiring a critical mass of
adoption. If there is sufficient take up of the technology
then the costs of equipment will reduce and the
expertise will be more readily available. There are a
number of specific cure monitoring technologies that
warrant further research. However, for cure monitoring
in general, the next major steps will not be in pure
research, but through the commercial exploitation of
cure monitoring technologies by both original
equipment manufacturers and materials processors.
Additional References
a.1 R. Davidson and N. L. Hancox, Cure monitoring
of resins in fibre composites, AEAT Report
AEAT-CPD4B-R1, Abingdon, UK, 2000.
a.2 I. K. Partridge, Networking in Cure
Monitoring, Materials World, July, 1999,
London, UK.
a.3 N. Oshima, K. Aoki, S. Umemoto, S. Motogi
and T. Fukuda, Journal of the Japan Society
for Composite Materials, 2001, 27, 5, 237.
a.4 R.A. Pethrick, Plastics, Rubber and
Composites Processing and Applications,
1998, 27, 6, 257.
a.5 J.K. Gillham in Encyclopaedia of Polymer
Science and Engineering, Volume 4, 2nd
Edition, Eds., H.F. Mark, N.M. Bikales, C.G.
Overberger and G. Menges, John Wiley &
Sons, New York, USA, 1986, 519.
a.6 C. Carfagna, V. Ambrogi, G, Malucelli and M.
Giamberini, Journal of Adhesion Science and
Technology, 2001, 15, 13, 1635.
© Crown Copyright 2003
 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives

a.7 S.L. Simon, G.B. McKenna and O. Sindt,

Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2000, 76,
495.

a.8 J.K. Gillham, Polymer International, 1997, 44,

262.

a.9 M.-K. Um, I.M. Daniel and B.-S. Hwang,

Composites Science and Technology, 2002, 62,
29.

a.10 D.R. Mulligan, S.J.P. Gnaniah and G.D. Sims,

Thermal analysis techniques for composites
and adhesives: second edition, NPL
Measurement Good Practice Guide No. 62,
Teddington, UK, 2003.

a.11 W. Wenger, Proceedings of the International

Conference for Manufacturing of Advanced
Composites (ICMAC), Belfast, UK, 2001, 121.

a.12 G.D. Sims, D.R. Mulligan, S.J.P. Gnaniah and

W.R. Broughton, Proceedings of the
International Conference for Manufacturing of
Advanced Composites (ICMAC), Belfast, UK,
2001, 336.

© Crown Copyright 2003 21

 Cure Monitoring for Composites and Adhesives

Abbreviations and Acronyms

BMC bulk moulding compound

CHT continuous-heating-transformation

DDS diaminodiphenyl sulfone

DEA dielectric analysis

DMA dynamic mechanical analysis

DSC differential scanning calorimetry

DTUL deflection temperature under load

FEA finite element analysis

FTIR Fourier transform infrared

HDT heat deflection temperature

IR infrared

L longitudinal modulus

NMR nuclear magnetic resonance

PTFE polytetrafluoroethylene

RTM resin transfer moulding

SMC sheet moulding compound

Tg glass transition temperature

TGA thermogravimetric analysis

TMDSC temperature modulated differential scanning calorimetry

TTT time-temperature-transformation

Vl longitudinal velocity

WAXS wide angle X-ray scattering

Z complex impedance

α degree-of-cure

δ phase lag

ε* complex permittivity

ε´ real permittivity

ε´´ complex permittivity

η viscosity

ρ density

σ ionic conductivity

22 © Crown Copyright 2003

 References and Abstracts
Abstracts from the Polymer Library Database
Item 1
Handbook of Polymer Blends and Composites. Volume 1.
Shawbury, Rapra Technology Ltd., 2002, p.501-28
COMPOSITES: AT THE TURN OF CENTURY
Kulshreshtha A K; Vasile C
Petru Poni,Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry;
Indian Petrochemical Corp.Ltd.
Edited by: Vasile C; Kulshreshtha A K
Trends in composites and emerging technology for the
production of composite products at the turn of the century
are discussed. Attention is paid to smart composites,
nanocomposites, resin developments at NASA,
micromoulding, rapid prototyping, vacuum assisted resin
transfer moulding, cure monitoring, wood-filled
thermoplastics, PEEK composites, liquid crystal polymer
composites, composite recycling, underwater
applications, offshore applications, shipbuilding, dental
applications, medical applications, polymer concrete, civil
engineering and packaging. 26 refs.
US,NATIONAL AERONAUTICS & SPACE
ADMINISTRATION
EASTERN EUROPE; INDIA; RUMANIA
Accession no.886384
Item 2
International Polymer Science and Technology
30, No.4, 2003, p.T/25-32
PREPREGS WITH LONG SERVICE LIFE. 2.
RHEOKINETIC SELECTION OF INDUSTRIAL
TYPES OF EPOXY RESINS AND CURING
AGENTS
Smirnov Y N; Kruzhkova S V; Shatskaia T E;
Natrusov V I
Russian Academy of Sciences; AOO NPO Stekloplastik
-NPK Kompozit
A rheokinetic analysis is made of the curing processes
for a number of the cheapest industrial grades of epoxy
resins and curing agents produced in large volumes, and
the selection of them for implementation in various types
of prepreg technology. Previous methods of selection
using an isothermic calorimeter enable the reactivity of
the binder components at prepreg storage temperatures
to be evaluated from the initial rates of the curing process,
but do not allow the maximum kinetic service life, linked
to the gelation time for the binder at the storage
temperature, to be forecast because the latter also depends
on the functional properties of the components. An
analysis is presented of the results of the rheokinetic
studies. 30 refs. (Article translated from Plasticheskie
Massy, No.6, 2002,p.18-23).
RUSSIA
Accession no.884928
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 3
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
88, No.2, 11th April 2003, p.452-8
ANALYSIS OF THE CURE REACTION OF
CARBON NANOTUBES/EPOXY RESIN
COMPOSITES THROUGH THERMAL
ANALYSIS AND RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY
Puglia D; Valentini L; Kenny J M
Perugia,University
The effect of incorporating single-walled carbon
nanotubes (SWNTs) on the cure reaction of a bisphenol
A diglycidyl ether epoxy matrix was studied by thermal
analysis and Raman spectroscopy. The result showed that
SWNTs acted as a strong catalyst. A shift of the
exothermic reaction peak to lower temperatures was
observed in the presence of SWNTs. The effects occurred
at the lower nanotube concentration analysed (5%) and a
further increase in SWNT concentration (to 10%)
produced only a slightly increased effect, suggesting a
saturation of the catalysing action at the higher
concentration. The thermal degradation of the epoxy resin/
SWNT composite was faster than that of cured epoxy
resin. Raman spectroscopy showed that the observed
changes in the cure reaction of the composites led to a
different residual strain on the SWNT bundles following
a different intercalation of the epoxy matrix. 28 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.883770
Item 4
International Journal of Polymeric Materials
52, No.3, March 2003, p.175-88
CURE CHARACTERISTICS AND MECHANICAL
PROPERTIES OF SHORT NYLON FIBER
REINFORCED ACRYLONITRILE BUTADIENE
RUBBER/RECLAIMED RUBBER BLENDS
Sreeja T D; Kutty S K N
Cochin,University of Science & Technology
The cure characteristics and mechanical properties of
short nylon fibre reinforced acrylonitrile-butadiene
rubber/reclaimed rubber blends were studied. The
minimum torque, (maximum-minimum) torque and cure
rate increased with increasing fibre concentration. Adding
fibres decreased the scorch time and cure time. The tensile
and tear properties, and the abrasion resistance, were
enhanced by the addition of fibres and were higher for
fibres in the longitudinal direction. Heat build up values
increased with fibre concentration and were higher for
samples with longitudinally oriented fibres. Resilience
increased with the introduction of the fibres and the
compression set was higher for the composites. 18 refs.
INDIA
Accession no.883693
23
 References and Abstracts
Item 5
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
87, No.14, 1st April 2003, p.2295-305
STUDY OF THE ISOTHERMAL CURING OF AN
EPOXY PREPREG BY NEAR-INFRARED
SPECTROSCOPY
Qian Wang; Storm B K; Houmoller L P
Aalborg,University
The epoxy prepreg SPX 8800 (SP Systems), which
contained DGEBA, dicyanodiamide, diuron and
reinforcing glass fibres, was isothermally cured at
different temperatures from 75 to 110C and monitored
via in-situ near-IR Fourier transform spectroscopy. Two
sets of cure conditions were investigated, curing the epoxy
prepreg directly (condition 1) and curing the epoxy
prepreg between two glass plates (condition 2). Under
both sets of curing conditions, the epoxy group could not
attain 100% conversion with curing at low temperatures
(75-80C) for 24h. The samples cured under condition 2
were found to have lower initial epoxy conversion rates
than those cured under condition 1 and more primary
amine-epoxy addition was shown to occur under condition
2. The activation energy under condition 2 was higher
than that under condition 1, but a lower Tg of the cured
samples was observed by DSC. The moisture in the
prepreg was assumed to account for the different reaction
kinetics observed and to lead to different reaction
mechanisms. 33 refs.
SP SYSTEMS
DENMARK; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;
SCANDINAVIA; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.883260
Item 6
Smart Materials & Structures
12, No.1, Feb.2003, p.29-35
SIMULTANEOUS MONITORING OF STRAIN
AND TEMPERATURE DURING AND AFTER
CURE OF UNSYMMETRIC COMPOSITE
LAMINATE USING FIBRE-OPTIC SENSORS
Kang H-K; Kang D-H; Hong C-S; Kim C-G
Korea,Advanced Institute of Science & Technology
The simultaneous measurement of strain and temperature
during and after cure of unsymmetric cross-ply composite
laminate using fibre-optic sensors is presented. Fibre
Bragg grating/extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometric (FBG/
EFPI) hybrid sensors are used to measure those
measurands. The characteristic matrix of the sensor is
derived analytically and measurements can be done
without sensor calibration experiments. A wavelength-
swept fibre laser is utilised as a light source. Two FBG/
EFPI hybrid sensors are embedded in a graphite/epoxy
unsymmetric cross-ply composite laminate in different
directions and different locations. The real-time
measurement of fabrication strains and temperatures is
performed at two points within the composite laminate
during the cure process in an autoclave. Also, the thermal
24
strains and temperatures of the fabricated unsymmetric
laminate are measured afterward in a thermal chamber.
Through these experiments FBG/EFPI sensors are proven
to be an efficient choice for smart monitoring of composite
structures. 23 refs.
KOREA
Accession no.882638
Item 7
Shawbury, Rapra Technology Ltd., 2003, pp. xii, 558,
25cm, 627
HANDBOOK OF POLYMER BLENDS AND
COMPOSITES, VOLUME 1
Petru Poni,Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry;
Indian Petrochemical Corp.Ltd.
Edited by: Vasile C; Kulshreshtha A K
This handbook is the first part of a four volume publication
‘Handbook of Polymer Blends and Composites’ which
gives an overview of the theory and application of
polymer blends and composites. It comprises of a
collection of monographs written by professionals from
academia and industry. This volume is concerned with
composite development, characteristics of particulate
fillers, fibre reinforcements and interface, main
procedures of composites manufacture and their
applications. Chapters cover the following topics: the
history of composites; particulate fillers and fibre
reinforcements; composites in Asia; composites
technology in Korea; advances in wood-based composites
in China; an overview of the use of composites
Worldwide; the interface in polymer composites; novel
multifunctional epoxy resins; flame retardant polyesters;
cure kinetics of vinyl ester resins; curing monitoring;
curing and bonding of composites using electron beam
processing; composites at the turn of the century.
EASTERN EUROPE; INDIA; RUMANIA
Accession no.881518
Item 8
Gummi Fasern Kunststoffe
56, No.2, Feb.2003, p.84-91
German
ONLINE-PROCESS CONTROL IN THE
PRODUCTION OF FIBRE COMPOSITES
Schmachtenberg E; Toepker J; Bartusch J; McHugh J
IKV; BAM
The application of an ultrasonic technique for on-line
monitoring and process control of resin transfer moulding,
a technique used for manufacture of complex and three-
dimensional composite parts using various combinations
of thermoset resins systems and fibre materials, is
described. 23 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.881121
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Item 9
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
87, No.9, 28th Feb.2003, p.1493-9
CROSSLINKED ACRYLIC PRESSURE-
SENSITIVE ADHESIVES. I. EFFECT OF THE
CROSSLINKING REACTION ON THE PEEL
STRENGTH
Asahara J; Hori N; Takemura A; Ono H
Tokyo,University
The relationship between the crosslinking reaction and
the peel strength was studied for pressure-sensitive
adhesives(PSAs) based on ethyl acrylate/2-ethylhexyl
acrylate/2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate copolymer as a base
resin and polyisocyanate as a crosslinking agent. A 90
degree peel test of cured PSA films under various storage
conditions was carried out. The isocyanate(NCO)
consumption in these PSA films was also monitored by
ATR/FTIR spectroscopy. The peel strength of the PSA
compounded with the crosslinking agent decreased as the
NCO groups were consumed. The elevation of the ageing
temperature promoted the crosslinking reaction and
increased the decrement in the peel strength. The peel
strength of non-crosslinked and crosslinked PSA films
increased with the contact time. A high storage
temperature made the increment in the peel strength
increase. The addition of the crosslinking agent to the
PSA films reduced the increment in the peel strength.
Furthermore, PSA films with residual NCO groups
possessed stronger peel strengths than fully cured films.
10 refs.
JAPAN
Accession no.879831
Item 10
Polymer Composites
23, No.6, Dec.2002, p.1111-9
SEPARATION OF GELATION FROM
VITRIFICATION IN CURING OF A FIBER-
REINFORCED EPOXY COMPOSITE
Bilyeu B; Brostow W; Menard K P
North Texas,University; Perkin-Elmer Inc.
Temperature-modulated DSC (TMDSC) and DMA were
used to characterise prepregs composed of a mixture of
tetraglycidyl 4,4-diaminodiphenylmethane and 4,4'-
diaminodiphenylsulphone. Separation of the baseline shift
of the Tg from the curing isotherm was achieved using
TMDSC and step scan DSC temperature scans and
TMDSC isotherms were utilised to isolate the baseline
shift in heat capacity due to vitrification. Using the data
obtained, a time-temperature-transformation diagram was
developed for optimising the curing of the epoxy prepreg.
17 refs.
USA
Accession no.876661
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 11
EURADH 2002. Adhesion 02. Proceedings of a
conference held Glasgow, 10th-13th Sept.2002.
London. IOM Communications Ltd., 2002, Session 7;
Chemistry and Rheology, Paper 6, p.129-32, 29cm, 012
MOLECULAR MOBILITY IN AN EPOXY
ADHESIVE: DIELECTRIC SPECTRA FOR BULK
AND FOR THIN LAYERS
Neurohr H; Possart W; Valeske B
Saarlandes,Universitat
(Institute of Materials)
The molecular dynamics of an epoxy adhesive during
curing and after curing was investigated using dielectric
spectroscopy. The dielectric spectra for thin layer joints
with aluminium adherends were compared with those for
thicker adhesive films and the dielectric behaviour of the
cured epoxy system in the glassy state characterised. It
was found that in layers having a thickness of less than
10 micrometers curing gave rise to earlier vitrification,
resulting in a less mobile network structure as indicated
by increased activation energies for secondary relaxations
in the cured state. 7 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
UK; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.876570
Item 12
EURADH 2002. Adhesion 02. Proceedings of a
conference held Glasgow, 10th-13th Sept.2002.
London. IOM Communications Ltd., 2002, Session 7;
Chemistry and Rheology, Paper 5, p.125-8, 29cm, 012
COMBINING IR-ERAS AND SPECTRA
CALCULATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE
CURING REACTION IN ULTRA-THIN EPOXY
FILMS ON METALS
Wehlack C; Valeske B; Possart W
Saarlandes,Universitat
(Institute of Materials)
Changes in the chemical structure of spin coated epoxy
resin adhesive films on aluminium substrates were
investigated using a combination of IR spectroscopy and
reflection absorption spectroscopy during curing of the
adhesive. The spectroscopic degree of epoxy conversion
during curing of the ultra-thin films was quantitatively
analysed and compared with that of bulk adhesive. 2 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
UK; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.876569
Item 13
ANTEC 2002. Proceedings of the 60th SPE Annual
Technical Conference held San Francisco, Ca., 5th-9th
May 2002.
Brookfield, Ct., SPE, 2002, Paper 441, Session T41-
Composites. Other Reinforcements in Composites I,
pp.5, CD-ROM, 012
25
 References and Abstracts
CAPACITIVE SENSING DIELECTROMETERS
FOR NONCONTACT CHARACTERIZATION OF
ADHESIVES AND EPOXIES
Schlicker D; Sheiretov Y; Washabaugh A; Goldfine N
Jentek Sensors Inc.
(SPE)
Sensors incorporating multiple sensing elements are
described which enable the non-contact measurement of
dielectric properties from one side of a sample. The
multiple wavelength electrode structures control the
penetration depth of the electric field, and can
accommodate variations in lift-off or air gap. The
dielectric properties may be correlated with the state of
cure, and are suitable for monitoring epoxies and
adhesives in thick and thin film applications.
USA
Accession no.876531
Item 14
Journal of Composite Materials
36, No.21, 2002, p.2479-98
CURE KINETIC MODEL, HEAT OF REACTION,
AND GLASS TRANSITION TEMPERATURE OF
AS4/3501-6 GRAPHITE-EPOXY PREPREGS
Kim J; Moon T J; Howell J R
Texas,University at Austin
An isothermally-based cure kinetic model for a carbon
graphite-epoxy AS4/3501-6 benchmark prepreg system
containing tetraglycidyl methylenedianiline, alicyclic
diepoxy carboxylate, epoxy cresol novolac,
diaminodiphenyl sulphone and boron trifluoride amine
complex is presented. The cure kinetics of the prepreg were
determined by DSC and the mass fraction of the epoxy
resin in the prepreg by thermogravimetry. The ultimate heat
of reaction of the resin incorporated within the prepreg was
measured using dynamic DSC scans at 20C/min. and the
Tg of the partially-cured and fully cured prepregs
determined by differential scanning calorimetry. 35 refs.
USA
Accession no.875966
Item 15
Adhesives Age
45, No.12, Dec.2002, p.12-4
THE RIGHT LIGHT FOR EPOXIES
Dake K
DSM Desotech
Test methods for quantifying the degree of cure of UV
curing epoxy adhesives and establishing optimum cure
conditions are considered. These methods include Shore
D hardness testing, lap shear testing, fibre pull-out and
measurement of changes in functionality via FTIR
spectroscopy. The results of tests carried out on a UV-
curable adhesive subjected to various light exposures
using the above methods are presented and discussed. This
26
adhesive was cured with the Electro-Lite BondWand and
EXFO Novacure light guide devices. 3 refs.
USA
Accession no.875941
Item 16
Journal of Polymer Science: Polymer Chemistry
Edition
40, No.23, 1st Dec.2002, p.4236-44
ULTRAVIOLET CURING OF ACRYLIC
SYSTEMS: REAL TIME FOURIER TRANSFORM
INFRARED, MECHANICAL, AND
FLUORESCENCE STUDIES
Peinado C; Salvador E F; Alonso A; Corrales T;
Baselga J; Catalina F
CSIC; Madrid,Universidad Carlos III
The UV curing of an acrylic adhesive was studied with
two different initiators (2-benzyl-2-N,N-dimethylamino-
1-(4-morpholinophenyl)-1-butanone (DBMP) or
bis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phenyl phosphine oxide
(TMBAPO)). Real time FTIR was used to measure the
acrylate double bond conversion at different irradiation
times and the changes in fluorescence intensity were also
measured in real time. The polymerisation rate depended
on the square root of the absorbed light intensity when
DMBP was used as the photoinitiator, whereas primary
radical termination was observed when TMBAPO was
used. The fluorescence emission changes of different
fluorescent probes during UV curing also showed different
behaviours which depended on the nature of the
photoinitiator. The results were discussed. 19 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.875050
Item 17
Polymer
43, No.25, 2002, p.6829-37
SMALL ANGLE LIGHT SCATTERING
INVESTIGATION OF POLYMER DISPERSED
LIQUID CRYSTAL COMPOSITES
Maugey J; Navard P
Paris,Ecole des Mines
The curing of a homogeneous mixture of a nematic liquid
crystal and an acrylate UV curable prepolymer was
studied using small angle light scattering. The temperature
and UV intensity during curing were varied. Phase
separation occurred for all conditions other than elevated
temperatures. The isotropic-to-nematic transition could
be seen as a decrease of the scattering intensity. For all
the conditions studied, the final morphology was a droplet
morphology. At high UV intensity, two scattering peaks
were observed which were thought to be possibly due to
a double spinodal decomposition. 29 refs
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.874652
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Item 18
Polymer Engineering and Science
42, No.8, Aug.2002, p.1667-73
SPATIALLY HOMOGENEOUS GELATION IN
LIQUID COMPOSITE MOLDING
Comas-Cardona S; Ziaee S; Advani S G
Delaware,University
On-line mixing of thermoset prepolymers and curing
agents is the main technique used commercially for the
manufacture of composite parts. A disadvantage of this
process is that the concentrations of curing agent are fixed
throughout, causing the resin that is mixed with its curing
agent earlier in the process to cure before the resin that
enters the mould towards the end of the filling. This results
in inhomogeneous gelation in the part. The results of the
present study show that, by adjusting the concentrations
of a set of retarder, accelerator and initiator for a vinyl
ester resin, spatially homogeneous gelation can be
achieved. The time to demould is reduced to 18 to 24%
of the filling time. Sensors that measure the conductivity
of the resin are used to detect the location and monitor
the cure of vinyl ester resin. 29 refs.
USA
Accession no.873204
Item 19
Composite Structures
57, No.1-4, July-Sept.2002, p.489-93
GLASS TRANSITION AND VISCOELASTIC
BEHAVIOUR OF PARTIALLY CURES
COMPOSITES
Sia T F; Liu X L; Chiu W K; Paton R
Monash,University; Cooperative Research Centre for
Advanced Composite Structures Ltd.
The cure monitoring of test speciments of carbon/epoxy
composites was studied. Dynamic mechanical thermal
analysis was used to investigate the nature of the loss
modulus and DSC was used to evaluate the degree of cure.
The results showed that the loss factor was a good cure
monitoring indicator for carbon fibre composites which
were more than 70% cured. It was suggested that acoustic
emission should be used as an in-situ technique for
measuring the loss factor of composites for cure
monitoring. 8 refs.
AUSTRALIA
Accession no.871006
Item 20
Composite Structures
57, No.1-4, July-Sept.2002, p.91-5
DIELECTRIC CURE MONITORING FOR
GLASS/POLYESTER PREPREG COMPOSITES
Hyoung Geun Kim; Dai Gil Lee
Korea,Advanced Institute of Science & Technology
A new on-line cure monitoring method for S-glass/
polyester composites was developed, using the dissipation
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
factor and internal temperature measured with a dielectric
sensor and a thermocouple. The dissipation factor was
converted into the degree of cure, separating the
temparature effect by using a combination function of
temperature and degree of cure. The calculated degree of
cure showed a good agreement of up to 70% of the degree
of cure measured by DSC. 22 refs.
KOREA
Accession no.870980
Item 21
Composite Structures
57, No.1-4, July-Sept.2002, p.67-77
REPAIR OF UNDERGROUND BURIED PIPES
WITH RESIN TRANSFER MOULDING
Dai Gil Lee; Woo Seok Chin; Jae Wook KKwon;
Ae Kwon Yoo
Korea,Advanced Institute of Science & Technology;
TBI
A new resin transfer moulding process was described for
repairing and reinforcing underground pipes using fibre-
reinforced composite materials (a glass fibre-reinforced
orthophthalic type unsaturated polyester). The interior of
the pipe was cleaned using a mobile robot. The reparing
reinforcement (consisting of a glass fibre preform and
two covering plastic films) was connected to a rope, pulled
through the pipe and both ends of the reinforcement were
then closed. Compressed air was then supplied to expand
the inner film of the reinforcement, which pressed the
outer film and glass fibre preform against the internal
surface of the pipe. The inner and outer plastic films
prevented the glass fibre preform from being damaged
by the internal surface of the pipes and from being
contaminated with dirty water left in them. The
pressurised air in the cavity was then removed and the
thermosetting unsaturated polyester resin was injected into
the glass fibre preform with a resin transfer moulding
machine. Compressed air was fed into the cavity to ensure
that the injected resin uniformly wetted the glass fibre
preform and that the reinforcement was in close contact
with the internal surface of the pipe. The air and volatiles
produced during the cure of the polyester were removed
by applying a vacuum. After the curing reaction was
completed, the covers were removed from both ends of
the pipe. The cure status and resin filling were monitored
using a commercial dielectrometry cure monitoring
system. Compression tests of pipes reinforced by this
method showed that the compressive load capability of
the reinforced pipe increased by about 15%. 21 refs.
SOUTH KOREA
Accession no.870977
27
 References and Abstracts
Item 22
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
86, No.8, 21st Nov.2002. p.1911-23
DYNAMIC MODELING OF CURING PROCESS
OF EPOXY PREPREG
Liangfeng Sun; Su-Seng Pang; Sterling A M;
Negulescu I I; Stubblefield M A
Louisiana,State University; Louisiana,Southern
University
The dynamic curing process of an epoxy prepreg was
studied using DSC at different heating rates. The
experimental results were modelled by autocatalytic cure
kinetics. The kinetic parameters were determined by two
different methods. In one method, the whole curing
process was modelled with two cure reactions and the
calculated results showed that the contributions of the two
reactions were very different and changed with the heating
rate. Except in the early cure stage, the calculated total
degree of cure agreed well with the experimental data. In
the second method, the whole curing process was
modelled with one autocatalytic reaction. The calculated
results agreed well with the experimental values in the
early cure stage. 17 refs.
USA
Accession no.870472
Item 23
Adhesives & Sealants Industry
9, No.7, Aug.2002, p.38-40
RHEOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF A
THERMOSETTING URETHANE SEALANT
USED IN A MEDICAL DEVICE
Aubuchon S R
TA Instruments Inc.
A manufacturer of medical devices uses a PU sealant in a
heat-exchange device often used during open-heart
surgery. The manufacturer was interested in the time-to-
cure and the viscosity profile of the urethane as a function
of time and/or temperature. To improve production quality
and product performance, the AR2000 advanced
rheometer was used to monitor the curing profile of the
urethane, aiding in the optimisation and troubleshooting
of the manufacturing process by monitoring the quality
of incoming feedstock and optimising production
conditions. The series of rheological tests on the urethane
sealant show that manufacturing variances are associated
with the initial viscosity of the uncured resin, and this
was a function of preparation time. The curing time was
not affected by the preparation time of the urethane resin.
USA
Accession no.868085
Item 24
Polymer Preprints. Volume 42. Number 1. Spring 2001.
Papers presented at the ACS Meeting held San Diego,
Ca., 1st-5th April 2001.
28
Washington, D.C., ACS, Div.of Polymer Chemistry,
2001, p.304-5, 28 cm, 012
KINETIC STUDY OF ULTRAFAST
POLYMERISATION REACTIONS BY REAL-
TIME INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY
Decker C; Masson F; Bianchi C
Ecole Nationale Superieure de Chimie de Mulhouse;
Haute-Alsace,Universite
(ACS,Div.of Polymer Chemistry)
One of the unique advantages of photoinitiated
polymerisation lies in the rapidity of the process which
transforms within seconds a liquid resin into a solid
polymer material. This UV curing technology has found
a large variety of applications, in particular to produce
fast-drying coatings, adhesives, printing inks or composite
materials. For the polymer chemist, monitoring in real-
time such ultra-fast reactions has been a real challenge.
Indeed, the analytical techniques commonly used to study
polymerisation reactions, like calorimetry, dilatometry,
nephelometry or radiometry, have a response time too long
to follow in situ the polymerisation kinetics. This is not
the case of real-time infrared spectroscopy, a technique
which proves to be well suited to record directly
conversion versus time curves for polymerisation process
occurring in a fraction of a second. The important kinetic
parameters of photoinitiated radical and cationic
polymerisations are evaluated by this technique, and the
influence of some chemical and physical parameters on
both the rate and the extent of the light-induced curing
reactions are assessed. This powerful tool of investigation
should prove most valuable to polymer chemists for
studying the kinetics of ultra-fast polymerisation
reactions. 3 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.866667
Item 25
Journal of Composite Materials
36, No.15, 2002, p.1889-901
LASER ULTRASONIC ARRAY SYSTEM FOR
REAL-TIME CURE MONITORING OF
POLYMER-MATRIX COMPOSITES
Fomitchov P A; Kim Y K; Kromine A K;
Krishnaswamy S
Northwestern University
A laser ultrasonic system for real-time cure monitoring
of a graphite-epoxy resin composite was proposed. The
system contained an array of fibrised laser ultrasonic
sources and an embedded fibre optic Sagnac ultrasonic
sensor and was integrated with a resin transfer moulding
machine. The use of an optical switch allowed ultrasonic
generation at several locations of the composite part.
Ultrasound generated by the laser source was transmitted
into the composite and was detected by the embedded
sensor. The cure state was inferred from measurements
of ultrasonic velocity. The results of ultrasonic
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
measurements taken during manufacture of a composite
specimen are presented. The laser ultrasonic cure
monitoring system described had the ability to operate in
a high temp. and high pressure environment, was small
enough to be incorporated into moulds and measured the
cure state at several locations within the composite part.
27 refs.
USA
Accession no.865846
Item 26
Polymer Composites
23, No.4, Aug. 2002, p.479-94
MONITORING THE REACTION PROGRESS OF
A HIGH-PERFORMANCE PHENYLETHYNYL-
TERMINATED POLY(ETHERIMIDE). PART II.
ADVANCEMENT OF GLASS TRANSITION
TEMPERATURE
Bullions T A; Stoykovich M P; McGrath J E; Loos A C
Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University
An attempt was made to identify the cure schedules
maximising Tg by monitoring the progress of the reaction
through Tg measurements following different cure
schedules for carbon fibre-reinforced phenylethynyl-
terminated polyetherimide composites. Towpreg and neat
resin samples were cured in a differential scanning
calorimeter, Tgs of all specimens were measured by DSC
and the Tgs of composites were also measured by dynamic
mechanical thermal analysis. It was found that the Tgs of
the composite and towpreg increased to a plateau with
increasing cure time and cure temperature and that the
neat resin exhibited an optimal Tg followed by a reduction
in Tg with increasing cure time and cure temperature. 28
refs.
USA
Accession no.865325
Item 27
Journal of Composite Materials
36, No.14, 2002, p.1725-43
CURE CYCLE EFFECT ON COMPOSITE
STRUCTURES MANUFACTURED BY RESIN
TRANSFER MOULDING
Kim Y K; Daniel I M
Georgia,Institute of Technology; Northwestern
University
An experimental investigation is conducted of the effect
of curing cycle on the development of material properties,
residual strains and stresses in composite parts during the
resin transfer moulding (RTM) process. The material
investigated consisted of AS4 carbon fibres as the preform
and a three-part epoxy system. Unidirectional indirect and
crossply carbon/epoxy laminates are prepared by the RTM
process in aluminium moulds. Several different curing
cycles are designed by changing the peak cure temperature
and heat up rate based on a cure kinetic model. Strains
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
are measured in the composite laminates curing using
embedded fibre optic strain sensors and electrical
resistance strain gauges. It is found that significant strain
is developed by interference between composite and
mould during cure, resulting in constraint-induced strain.
The magnitude of residual stresses is also assessed by
measuring the warpage curvature of asymmetric cross ply
laminates. The data show that the residual stress is
significantly dependent on the cure cycle and the
interference. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.864818
Item 28
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
21, No.13, 2002, p.1193-203
THERMAL PROPERTY MEASUREMENTS
DURING CURING OF THERMOSET RESINS
USING STEADY PERIODIC CONDITIONS
Garnier B; Sommier A
Nantes,Laboratoire de thermocinetique
Variation of thermal diffusivity and specific heat of a
general-purpose epoxy during curing is investigated
experimentally. The thermoset materials are particularly
difficult to characterise during their polymerisation on
the one hand because of the presence of exothermic
chemical reactions, and on the other because their
thermophysical properties depend both on the temperature
and on the degree of cure. Due to a method in periodic
mode associated with very sensitive thermal sensors, it is
possible to separate and measure the variations of thermal
diffusivity with temperature and degree of cure during
the thermoset polymerisation. In addition, heat capacity
analysis is performed during cure using a temperature
modulated calorimeter. Thermal diffusivity measurements
show a non-linear increase of more than 100% during the
cure of an epoxy/glass fibre composite while heat capacity
changes are less than 10%. 10 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.864812
Item 29
Journal of Composite Materials
36, No.10, 2002, p.1201-31
THICK-SECTIONED RTM COMPOSITE
MANUFACTURING, PART II. ROBUST CURE
CYCLE OPTIMIZATION AND CONTROL
Michaud D J; Beris A N; Dhurjati P S
Delaware,University
The development of a robust optimisation and control
methodology for identifying and implementing optimal
curing conditions for the thick-sectioned resin transfer
moulding of composites is described. The requirement
of at least one cooling stage in the cure cycle for the
manufacture of quality composites in a minimum amount
29
 References and Abstracts
of time is identified using various global optimisation
techniques and a sensitivity analysis of the variability of
the model parameters within the simulation is carried out
to determine the effects of variability on the optimal cure
cycle. An optimisation algorithm based on Evolutionary
Strategies is used to account for batch-to-batch model
parameter variability and non-intrusive heat flux sensors
are employed in the implementation of the optimum cure
cycle. 48 refs.
USA
Accession no.861040
Item 30
Journal of Composite Materials
36, No.10, 2002, p.1175-2000
THICK-SECTIONED RTM COMPOSITE
MANUFACTURING: PART I - IN SITU CURE
MODEL PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION AND
SENSING
Michaud D J; Beris A N; Dhurjati P S
Delaware,University
A report is presented on the experimental validation of the
cure simulation of a resin transfer moulded, thick-sectioned
composite, which is based on previously proposed model
equations. The effect of fibre reinforcement on the curing
behaviour of the resin is considered and the heat transfer
and kinetic model parameters of the composite not readily
computable from pure component values are characterised
using data from various laminates. The main heat transfer
model parameters for uncured and cured composites are
identified and the use of heat flux sensors as a non-intrusive
approach for the measurement of internal cure behaviour
of a thick-sectioned composite is evaluated. 34 refs.
USA
Accession no.861039
Item 31
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
21, No.10, 2002, p.901-18
ON THE EFFECT OF E-GLASS FIBER ON THE
CURE BEHAVIOUR OF VINYL ESTER
COMPOSITES
Karbhari V M; Lee R
California,University at San Diego
An investigation was carried out into the effects of fibre
volume fraction and cure temperature on the kinetics of
curing of an E-glass/vinyl ester composite using differential
scanning calorimetry. It was found that the fibres significantly
inhibited cure levels, activation levels decreased with
increasing fibre volume fraction and autocatalytic rate
parameters increased with fibre volume fraction. The
implications of the findings on the use of processes, such as
resin infusion, with vinyl esters for the manufacture of large
structural parts are considered. 24 refs.
USA
Accession no.861028
30
Item 32
Journal of Materials Science Letters
21, No.10, 15th May 2002, p.761-3
STUDY ON BULK INTERCALATION
POLYMERISATION OF PMMA/
MONTMORILLONITE INTERCALATED
NANOCOMPOSITE BY DYNAMIC TORSIONAL
VIBRATION METHOD
Gang Z; Kun F; Pingsheng H
Hefei,University of Science & Technology
The dynamic torsional vibration method (DTVM) and its
corresponding special instrument, the Resin Curemeter,
have been widely used to study the cure behaviour of
thermosetting resins and resin-based composites including
optimising the resin system, determining suitable cure
conditions, for example, curing temperature and time,
estimating the apparent kinetic parameters of curing
reaction, such as apparent activation energy, studying the
effect of filler on the cure reaction of resin-based
composites, studying the cure of resin/clay intercalating
system, interpenetrating polymer networks and
polyurethane liquid rubber etc. Since the principle of the
DTVM is to monitor the change of the mechanical
properties of the system, the DTVM can be applied to
any system where there are mechanical changes during
the process. The bulk polymerisation of some polymers,
such as cast nylon and PMMA, is a process in which
viscosity increases gradually, and can be also monitored
by the DTVM. The bulk polymerisation reaction of the
monomer-initial system can be understood by mechanical
stimulation of the system and its mechanical response to
the stimulation. Therefore, the process of cure of
thermosetting resin and bulk polymerisation of PMMA
is similar from the mechanical viewpoint, and can be
studied by the DTVM. Particularly, the increasing of
consumption of reactive groups is not obvious at the last
stage of the process and the sensitivity and function of
traditional chemical analysis, spectroscopic and
calorimetric techniques for detecting the degree of
conversion of reactive groups are greatly reduced. But it
is during the last stage that the mechanical properties
change a lot. The DTVM is applied to study the bulk
intercalation polymerisation of PMMA/montmorillonite
intercalated nanocomposite. 11 refs.
CHINA
Accession no.860961
Item 33
Polymer Composites
23, No.3, June 2002, p.454-63
IN SITU MONITORING OF RESIDUAL STRAIN
DEVELOPMENT DURING COMPOSITE CURE
Crasto A S; Kim R Y; Russell J D
Dayton,University; US,Air Force,Wright-Patterson
Base
Internal stresses build up in a thermosetting composite as
the matrix shrinks during cure, and again as the composite
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
is cooled to ambient from its elevated processing
temperature. These stresses can be significant enough to
distort the dimensions and shape of a cured part as well
as initiate damage in off-axis plies, either during
fabrication or under the application of relatively low
mechanical loads. The magnitude of these stresses
depends on a number of factors including anisotropy,
volume fraction and thermal expansion, ply orientation,
process cycle and matrix cure chemistry. Embedded strain
gauges are employed to follow, in situ, the build-up of
residual strains in carbon fibre-reinforced laminates
during cure. The data are compared to those from
volumetric dilatometer studies to ascertain the fraction
of resin shrinkage that contribute to residual stress build-
up during cure. Based on earlier studies with single fibre
model composites, the process cycle in each case is then
varied to determine if the cycles optimised to minimise
residual stresses for isolated fibres in an infinite matrix
are applicable to the reduction of residual stresses in
conventional multi-fibre composites. The results of these
studies are reported. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.860540
Item 34
International Polymer Science and Technology
29, No.7, 2002, p.T/5-10
INVESTIGATION OF ADHESIVE LIGHT-
CURING USING THE PRE-ACTIVATION
TECHNIQUE. 2
Ehrenstein G W
Erlangen,Universitat
The pre-activation technique is described as a method of
speeding up assembly times using UV curing adhesives.
The adhesive is pre-activated by radiation after metering,
followed by the application of the constructional element
and heat post-treatment. The integration of the pre-
activation into the bonding process makes it possible to
keep the irradiation preceding the assembly short and
comparatively low-intensity in the first stage of the
process, so that a later post-curing by means of heat
radiation, can be flexibly incorporated without loss of
time. The pre-activation technique also permits successive
feeding of several adhesive points and additional surface
curing of the region to be bonded by radiation. With the
aid of a pot life of the adhesive optimised on the basis of
the number of equipment elements, the assembly
operation can thus be carried out using heat-based post-
hardening. This permits the possibility of multiple bonds
on complex substrates. Using viscosity and DSC
measurements, it was possible to characterise the curing
behaviour of the light-curing epoxy adhesive as a function
of the irradiation intensity and time at different
temperatures. Compression and shear tests were carried
out to assess the achievable adhesion strengths, and
showed that durable adhesive joints can be obtained with
suitable irradiation time and intensity, and that their
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
strength can be increased even further by suitable thermal
post-curing. 5 refs. (Article translated from Gummi Fasern
Kunststoffe, No.1, 2001, pp.34)
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.859553
Item 35
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
33A, No.6, 2002, p.841-54
MODEL-ASSISTED FEEDBACK CONTROL FOR
LIQUID COMPOSITE MOLDING
Dunkers J P; Flynn K M; Parnas R S; Sourlas D D
US,National Inst.of Standards & Technology; Missouri-
Rolla,University
A model-assisted feedback control algorithm, a type of
generic mode control, was used to control cure in resin
transfer moulding. This control algorithm calculated an
apparent temp. of reaction based on the cure data input
from a sensor and this temp. was used to compare the
actual rate of reaction with the desired rate and to calculate
the mould set-point temp. The model input into the control
algorithm was an empirical cure model of a pre-ceramic
polymer with an Arrhenius temp. dependence from 55 to
95C. The effect of varying control parameters was
evaluated through cure simulations and experiments. The
effect of noise on the controller robustness was also
evaluated through simulation and experiment. Control
parameters were evaluated for temps. of 55 and 95C.
30 refs.
USA
Accession no.858464
Item 36
Elgin, Il., 2001, pp.4. 28cms. 25/4/02
DESOBOND UV-CURABLE ADHESIVES :
DESOBOND 956-104
DSM Desotech Inc.
A datasheet from DSM Desotech provides details of the
acrylate-urethane adhesive DesoBond 956-104. This
medium Tg, medium viscosity, UV-curable adhesive for
optical fibres has been formulated to provide strong,
durable bonding on substrates including glass, metals and
plastics. The adhesive is rigid when cured, yet allows for
some flexibility. Product benefits are listed and data
tabulated relating to performance characteristics and
typical properties. Graphs show the degree of cure using
FTIR measurement and dynamic mechanical analysis
results. Recommendations for the safe storage and use of
the adhesive are also included. 2 figs.
USA
Accession no.858287
31
 References and Abstracts
Item 37
Journal of Adhesion
78, No.4, 2002, p.297-312
MOISTURE-CURING KINETICS OF
ISOCYANATE PREPOLYMER ADHESIVES
Lepene B S; Long T E; Meyer A; Kranbuehl D E
Virginia,Polytechnic Institute & State University;
William & Mary College
An investigation was carried out into the use of in-situ FTIR
spectroscopy for monitoring the chemistry of the kinetics
of polymerisation between isocyanate-terminated urethane
prepolymers and atmospheric moisture. Changes in the
mobility of ions in the reaction medium were followed by
means of frequency dependent dielectric sensing with a
thin, planar sensor. A good correlation was established
between frequency dependent dielectric sensing changes
in ionic mobility and FTIR spectroscopic monitoring of
the isocyanate during moisture curing. 19 refs.
USA
Accession no.857245
Item 38
Adhesives Age
45, No.5, May 2002, p.26/9
HOW FAST DO ACRYLATES CURE
Dake K
DSM Desotech Inc.
UV light curing acrylate materials are used in many
processes requiring fast cure and very low VOCs. Many
methods are available to quantify how fast the acrylate
material cures. One method of determination involves the
measure of disappearance of functional groups with
exposure to UV light. Acrylate concentration can easily
be quantified by FTIR spectroscopy peak integration.
Transmission spectroscopy may be used to determine %
cure vs. exposure time. This is useful to determine how
fast a material will cure using a particular light source.
Attenuated total reflectance (ATR) allows for the
determination of % cure at a particular surface. This is
useful for quantifying the degree of surface tack due to
surface oxygen inhibition commonly seen in acrylates. It
has been discovered that the degree on surface inhibition
is related to the intensity of exposure. As the intensity
increases, the amount of surface inhibition due to oxygen
decreases. UV-curable urethane acrylate adhesives will
cure in less than a second when exposed to UV light with
intensity greater than 1 W/sq.cm. This curing process may
be monitored by measuring the conversion of acrylate
double bonds via spectroscopic analysis. Transmission
FTIR measures the conversion throughout the entire
sample while an attenuated total reflectance method will
allow for measurement at a particular point or surface.
Acrylate adhesives also exhibit a surface tack in the
presence of oxygen in the air. One way to prevent
inhibition is to cure the adhesive within a closed system
(no exposed surface to air) or to blanket the reaction with
32
nitrogen. A high intensity light causing a rapid cure will
also minimise the amount of surface tack. 1 ref.
USA
Accession no.856974
Item 39
Adhesives & Sealants Industry
9, No.4, May 2002, p.34/41
THE FUTURE OF PRESSURE SENSITIVE
ADHESIVES - UV TECHNOLOGY
Miller H
Sartomer Co.
The results are reported of a study of the performance
properties of various UV curable, pressure-sensitive
adhesive formulations. Twelve monomers, including
triacrylates and polar and non-polar monoacrylates, 3
tackifiers (a pentaerythritol-based rosin ester, a C5/C9
resin and a C9 resin) and a highly flexible urethane
diacrylate (CN-966) were employed in the study. Data
on the cure rate, peel strength and creep behaviour of the
various pressure-sensitive adhesive formulations are
presented and discussed and the benefits of using CN-
966 in the formulations to produce low-odour pressure-
sensitive adhesives are indicated.
USA
Accession no.856748
Item 40
Composites Science & Technology
62, No.6, 2002, p.791-7
MONITORING OF RESIN FLOW AND CURE
WITH AN ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVE
TRANSMISSION LINE USING CARBON FIBRE
AS CONDUCTIVE ELEMENTS
Urabe K; Okabe T; Tsuda H
Japan,National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science
& Technology
A new method was previously presented for monitoring
resin flow and cure with a high-frequency electromagnetic
wave transmission line constructed inside a structure,
where information on discontinuity or distribution can
be obtained by using frequency characteristics or time
domain response. The use of carbon fibre is proposed for
conductive elements constructing the transmission line,
which were constructed from metal in previous research,
so as to use material reinforcements (i.e. carbon fibre) as
sensing probes. The experimental results demonstrate the
possibility of carbon fibre as transmission line elements.
30 refs.
JAPAN
Accession no.856500
Item 41
Journal of Macromolecular Science A
A39, No.4, 2002, p.321-31
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
CURING BEHAVIOUR AND PROPERTIES OF
EPOXY RESINS CURED WITH THE DIAMINE
HAVING HETEROCYCLIC RING
Inoki M; Kimura S; Daicho N; Kasashima Y; Akutsu F;
Marushima K
Chiba,University; Hitachi Kasei Polymer Co.Ltd.
Details are given of the preparation of diamines having
heterocyclic ring for use as curing agents for epoxy resins.
Properties of these epoxy resin-diamine systems were
studied and compared with that of epoxy resins cured with
diaminodiphenylsulphone. Characterisation was
undertaken using DSC, TGA, FTIR, and GPC. 14 refs.
JAPAN
Accession no.853677
Item 42
Smart Materials & Structures
11, No.2, April 2002, p.279-87
CURE MONITORING OF COMPOSITE
LAMINATES USING FIBER OPTIC SENSORS
Kang H-K; Kang D-H; Bang H-J; Hong C-S; Kim C-G
Korea,Advanced Institute of Science & Technology
Details are given of the simulataneous measurement of
strain and temperature during cure of various composite
laminates using fibre Bragg grating/extrinsic Fabry-Perot
interferometric hybrid sensors. The characteristic matrix
of the hybrid sensor was derived analytically. Two hybrid
sensors were embedded in graphite fibre-reinforced epoxy
resin laminates in two mutually perpendicular directions.
Fabrication strains and temperatures at two points within
the laminates were measured during curing. 20 refs.
KOREA
Accession no.851730
Item 43
Smart Materials & Structures
11, No.2, April 2002, p.249-55
REAL-TIME CURE MONITORING OF SMART
COMPOSITE MATERIALS USING EXTRINSIC
FABRY-PEROT INTERFEROMETER AND
FIBER BRAGG GRATING SENSORS
Leng J S; Asundi A
Cranfield,University; Harbin,Institute of Technology;
Nanyang,Technological University
Extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometer and fibre Bragg
grating sensors were embedded in carbon fibre-reinforced
epoxy resin laminates and used to monitor the cure process
simultaneously. Measurements of residual strains during
the cure were also performed. Correlations between the
sensors are presented. 26 refs.
CHINA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;
SINGAPORE; UK; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.851728
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 44
Journal of Composite Materials
36, No.1, 2002, p.19-45
CURE CYCLE FOR THICK GLASS/EPOXY
COMPOSITE LAMINATES
Oh J H; Lee D G
Korea,Advanced Institute of Science & Technology
Temperature profiles of a glass fibre-reinforced epoxy
resins during an autoclave vacuum bag process were
measured and compared with numerically calculated
results. The effects of convective heat transfer coefficient
and geometry of mould and bagging assembly on the
temperature profiles were taken into consideration. An
optimised cure cycle with the cooling and reheating steps
was developed. The measured temperature profiles were
correlated with numerical data. 24 refs.
KOREA
Accession no.851710
Item 45
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
21, No.2, 2002, p.139-52
MONITORING THE CHANGE OF VISCOSITY
DURING CURE REACTION OF EPOXY RESINS
WITH RESIN POSITION SENSOR
Kim J G; Shin K H; Ryu H S; Lee J W
Seoul,Sogang University
Complex viscosity and electrical resistance were
measured simultaneously during the cure of epoxy resin
with polyamide by mounting a resin position sensor on
the upper plate of a rotational rheometer. The rheological
model for the viscosity changes and the electrical model
for the resistance changes were used to correlate the
viscosity with the resistance. From the results, the
interrelationship of viscosity and resistance of epoxy resin
were confirmed. 8 refs.
KOREA
Accession no.851706
Item 46
Journal of Adhesion
76, No.1, 2001, p.55-74
EVALUATING CURE OF A PMDI-WOOD
BONDLINE USING SPECTROSCOPIC,
CALORIMETRIC AND MECHANICAL
METHODS
Harper D P; Wolcott M P; Rials T G
Washington State,University; US,Dept.of
Agriculture,Forest Service
The cure of polymeric diphenylmethane
diisocyanate(pMDI)/wood bondline in a controlled
saturated steam environment was monitored using micro-
dielectric analysis(micro-DEA). Saturated steam
environments were produced between 110 and 140C. The
degree of cure calculated from micro-DEA was a basis
33
 References and Abstracts
for further spectroscopic, calorimetric and mechanical
evaluation. Interpretation of calorimetric and
spectroscopic analysis revealed a high consumption of
isocyanate early in cure. Mechanical strength, however,
as revealed by lap shear tests, did not develop until late
in cure. Low lap shear strengths and a plateau in
conversion rates were detected for samples pressed at 110
and 120C. Several components of the analysis suggested
that low temperature cure could result in crystal formation,
leading to diffusion controlled cure. 24 refs.
USA
Accession no.851472
Item 47
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
84, No.1, 4th April 2002, p.144-54
EQUIVALENT PROCESSING TIME ANALYSIS
OF GLASS TRANSITION DEVELOPMENT IN
EPOXY/CARBON FIBER COMPOSITE
SYSTEMS
Park I-K; Lee D-S; Nam J-D
Sung Kyun Kwan,University
Differential scanning calorimetry was used to examine
cure kinetics and glass transition temperature development
during the cure of a commercially available epoxy resin/
carbon fibre prepreg system. Isothermal and dynamic
heating experiments were carried out, and results were
used to develop a kinetic model describing the degree of
cure as a function of isothermal curing temperatures.
Incorporation of the maximum degree of cure into this
model gave kinetic equations that described both
isothermal and dynamic heating behaviour. Glass
transition temperature as a function of degree of cure was
indicated by the Di Beneditto equation and equivalent
processing time was used to evaluate development of glass
transition temperature for different curing conditions
where internal stress build-up during cure and subsequent
cooling stages were considered. 38 refs.
KOREA
Accession no.851110
Item 48
Journal of Coatings Technology
74, No.927, April 2002, p.41-7
UV CURING OF A PRESSURE SENSITIVE
ADHESIVE COATING STUDIED BY REAL-
TIME FTIR SPECTROSCOPY AND
LABORATORY SCALE CURING EXPERIMENTS
Tauber A; Scherzer T; Weiss I; Mehnert R
Institut fuer Oberflaechenmodifizierung
The UV curing behaviour of a hot melt, pressure-sensitive
adhesive composed of an acrylic polymer with a
photoreactive functional group in the side chain was
investigated using real-time FTIR spectroscopy. UV light
flash experiments were carried out to simulate production
parameters, such as cure velocity and number of required
34
UV lamps, and the spectroscopic data confirmed by
measurement of the peel strength and shear strength of
the UV cured adhesive. 17 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.850402
Item 49
Polymer Preprints. Volume 42, number 2. Fall 2001.
Proceedings of a conference held Chicago, Il., 26th-
30th August 2001.
Washington, D.C., ACS,Div.of Polymer Chemistry,
2001, p.216-7
CURE KINETICS OF PHOTOCURABLE
ADHESIVES
Wang Q; Zhu P; Li Z
Southern Mississippi,University; Hebei,University of
Technology
(ACS,Div.of Polymer Chemistry)
The development and application of photocurable
materials are increasingly gaining interest due to their
lowered pollution emissions, lowered costs and high
processing efficiencies compared to their conventional
counterparts. These materials have a wide range of
applications, including printing, coatings, sealants and
adhesives. In particular, the liquid crystal display device
can be automatically produced, with higher efficiency,
due to advancement, in photosensitive sealants and
adhesives. Cure behaviour is very important for a
photocurable adhesive as it influences the cured film’s
properties. The photocuring kinetics of several UV-
curable epoxy acrylate adhesives, synthesised based on
the ring-opening reaction of epoxy-resin and acrylic acid,
are studied by differential photocalorimetry. The effects
of several variables are studied including the amount of
photoinitiator, cure temperature, air and nitrogen, active
diluents. Induction time in air is less than nine seconds,
and the maximum cure rate is reached within twenty
seconds under 30 deg.C. However, at the same
temperature, but in nitrogen, the induction time is less
than four seconds, and the maximum cure rate is reached
within ten seconds. Using nitrogen will increase the speed
of the reaction when compared to oxygen, by decreasing
the time necessary for induction and decreasing the time
necessary for the maximum cure rate to be achieved. By
choosing the appropriate active diluent and the cure
temperature, the photocure rate can be adjusted. 5 refs.
CHINA; USA
Accession no.848987
Item 50
Composites Science & Technology
62, No.3, 2002, p.457-67
CURING OPTIMISATION FOR PULTRUDED
COMPOSITE SECTIONS
Li J; Joshi S C; Lam Y C
Nanyang,Technological University
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
A mathematical relationship between the degree of cure
profile across the cross-section of a pultruded part and
the die-heater temperatures is established. The relationship
is employed to optimise the die-heating profile such that
finally a near-uniformly-cured component can be
obtained. The algorithm is implemented using the 3D
finite element/nodal control volume (FE/NCV) approach
for process simulation. The application of the procedure
is demonstrated by simulating the pultrusion of composite
sections that use a multi-heater die. The effects of the
element aspect ratio and different initial heater conditions
are studied. The results of the case studies show that the
developed algorithm is numerically stable and provides
optimal die temperatures for producing a uniformly cured
pultrudate under the prescribed process conditions. 9 refs.
SINGAPORE
Accession no.848951
Item 51
Macromolecular Chemistry & Physics
203, No.2, 31st Jan.2002, p.336-45
NEW FLUORESCENT PROBES FOR
MONITORING POLYMERIZATION
REACTIONS: PHOTOCURING OF ACRYLIC
ADHESIVES. II.
Bosch P; Fernandez-Arizpe A; Catalina F; Mateo J L;
Peinado C
CSIC
The fluorescence of selected amide-based probes was
monitored over the entire range of curing of acrylic-based
adhesives (Loctite 329 and Loctite 312). The changes of
fluorescent parameters were continuously measured
during the photocrosslinking process. Real-time FTIR
spectroscopy was used to quantify the conversion at
different irradiation times. The intensity ratio, maximum
emission wavelength and first moment of fluorescence
could be used as parameters to determine the conversion.
Two-slope plots were obtained, which corresponded to
the different stages of the reaction. The use of the
fluorescence technique allowed the mechanism taking
place and the role of the binder matrix to be understood,
depending on the photoinitiator used. 28 refs.
LOCTITE
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.847537
Item 52
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
33A, No.2, 2002, p.277-88
RESIDUAL STRESS DEVELOPMENT DURING
THE COMPOSITE PATCH BONDING PROCESS:
MEASUREMENT AND MODELING
Djokic D; Johnston A; Rogers A; Lee-Sullivan P; Mrad N
New Brunswick,University; National Research Council
of Canada
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
An experimental technique was developed for monitoring
residual stress development throughout the composite
patch repair curing process. Process-induced strains and
specimen warpage during a number of different cure
cycles were measured using this technique for a simulated
single-sided composite patch repair of an aluminium
substrate. Models for adhesive cure rate and Tg behaviour
of the patch adhesive resin (FM 300-1K) were combined
with a simple bimetallic strip model to predict specimen
warpage and strain behaviour during cure. Model
predictions were compared with experimental
measurements and were used to assist in the development
of optimised cure cycles. Using these optimised cycles,
it was found that it was possible to achieve significant
reductions in patch warpage and at the same time
minimise processing time and obtain a high final adhesive
degree of cure. Experimental observations suggested that
an improved patch model incorporating adhesive
viscoelastic behaviour during cure would assist in
achieving additional process improvements. 13 refs.
CANADA; USA
Accession no.846115
Item 53
Polymer Composites
23, No.1, Feb. 2002, p.10-20
NEW FABRICATION TECHNIQUE UTILISING A
COMPOSITE MATERIAL APPLIED TO
ORTHOPAEDIC BRACING
Morrison B J; Creasy T S; Polliack A A; Fite R
Southern California,University; California,Center for
Applied Rehabilitation Technology
The feasibility of using a fabrication and fitting technique
utilising an epoxy resin, which initiates cure at a
temperature of 121C but which cures at 154C, as a rapid
and cost-effective alternative to a process employing PP
to fabricate orthopaedic braces was investigated. Flexural
tests were carried out on advanced carbon composites with
different degrees of cure to determine the effect of
adjustment to complete a component on the residual
mechanical properties of the specimen once fully cured.
The degree of partial cure achieved during each cure cycle
was assessed using DSC. 14 refs.
USA
Accession no.845116
Item 54
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
33A, No.3, 2002, p.385-97
LINEAR DIRECT CURRENT SENSING SYSTEM
FOR FLOW MONITORING IN LIQUID
COMPOSITE MOULDING
Luthy T; Ermanni P
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
Direct current (DC) resistance measurement is a well-
established technique for monitoring liquid composite
35
 References and Abstracts
moulding (LCM) processes. Through online resistance
measurement of the sensing gap between two crossing
wires (i.e. at a node), it is possible to determine the
presence of resin and the degree of curing at the node
location. Linear direct current (LDC) measurement as
presented is based on the same physical principle. The
main advantage of the LDC method is that the flow front
position can be tracked along the entire length of
contiguous wires and not only at discrete node locations.
Preliminary measurements are conducted in a 1D flow
channel to quantify the sensitivity of the LDC sensing
technique and to optimise the experimental set-up.
Evaluation criteria include the qualitative comparison of
results of visual and LDC monitoring systems with regard
to position and shape of the flow front and permeability
characterisation. Permeability of the fibre lay-up in the
flow channel is determined using output data from the
LDC measurement and with conventional methods based
on video capture of the flow front position. Comparison
of the results shows a difference of 0.02 x 10 -11 sq.m
between KLDC and Kvisual which corresponds to a
relative difference of 0.45%. Te improvement of
measurement accuracy and data handling are also
investigated. Software is developed to display the 2D flow
front position based on the information provided by the
LDC system. The potential of the technique for
monitoring LCM injection processes is demonstrated. The
application of LDC technology in an industrial
environment to support the fabrication of complex-shaped
3D structures is scheduled. 22 refs.
SWITZERLAND; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.844844
Item 55
Journal of Polymer Engineering
Vol. 21, No.5, Sept./Oct. 2001, p.445-68
CORRELATION BETWEEN ULTRASONIC AND
STATIC MECHANICAL PROPERTIES DURING
CURING OF COLD-CURING EPOXY
ADHESIVES
Frigione M; Maffezzoli A; Luprano V A M
Lecce,Universita; PASTIS-CNRSM
The progress of curing of an epoxy resin adhesive
(Sikadur 50) used to restore and bond concrete to various
substrates was monitored using ultrasonic wave
propagation. A correlation was made of the evolution of
ultrasonic properties with an increase in the mechanical
properties as the resin changed from a viscous liquid to a
glassy polymer. The results of the ultrasonic
measurements were compared with those obtained from
static measurements carried out on the neat resin and
adhesive to provide correlation charts between the
dynamic and static properties. 18 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.843994
36
Item 56
Revista de Plasticos Modernos
81, No.538, April 2001, p.461-6
Spanish
APPLICATION OF INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY
AND THERMAL ANALYSIS IN MONITORING
THE CURE OF THERMOSETTING RESINS
USED IN THE AIRCRAFT INDUSTRY
Sanchez-Blazquez A
CASA
The amine cure of Hexcel 8552 epoxy resin, for use as
the matrix in carbon fibre-reinforced composites for
application in aircraft construction, was monitored by
near-infrared spectroscopy. This technique was validated
by comparison of the results with those obtained by
modulated DSC. 18 refs.
HEXCEL COMPOSITES
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.842573
Item 57
Polymer
42, No.10, 2001, p.4611-8
SIMULTANEOUS MONITORING OF THE
IMIDIZATION AND CURE REACTIONS OF
LARC PETI-5 SIZED ON A BRAIDED GLASS
FABRIC SUBSTRATE BY DYNAMIC
MECHANICAL ANALYSIS
Cho D; Choi Y; Drzal L T
Kumoh,National University of Technology;
Michigan,State University
The imidisation and cure reactions of a thin film of
phenylethynyl-terminated imide oligomer (LaRC PETI-
5, Mn = 2500 g/mol) applied to a glass fabric and
processed under cumulative and isothermal heat treatment
conditions were measured. Three distinguishable peaks
were detected in the tan delta curves, which give useful
information on the glass transition temperature,
imidisation temperature and cure reaction temperature.
The degree of imidisation or cure reaction occurring
during the cumulative and isothermal cure processes is
related to the presence and size of the imidisation peak
and the cure reaction peak. The rate of cure increases
substantially above 250C. The Tg of the fully cured LaRC
PETI-5 was measured at 287C. The maximum in the tan
delta curve transformed with increasing cure temperature
from a triplet due to completion of imidisation above 250C
to a singlet after completion of the cure reaction. The
maximum of the singlet tan delta curve at 287C is
identified as the Tg of the LaRC PETI-5 polyamide. It is
concluded that the dynamic mechanical behaviour of the
LaRC PETI-5 strongly depends on thermal history,
especially above 300C. This result also confirms that after
cumulative or isothermal processing, LaRC PETI-5 can
be fully cured at 350C for 1 h. These results agree well
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
with the FTIR infrared spectroscopy and DSC results
reported earlier. 29 refs.
Accession no.841011
Item 58
Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry
66, No.1, 2001, p.223-32
THERMAL BEHAVIOUR OF SILVER-FILLED
EPOXY ADHESIVES
Damasceni A; Dei L; Guasti F
Firenze,Universita; Laben SpA
Details are given of mechanisms involved in the
polymerisation of electrically-conductive silver-filled
epoxy resin adhesives. Experiments were carrier out by
means of DSC and with the help of the dynamic
mechanical thermal analysis technique. Thermal effects
associated with polymerisation, enthalpy changes and the
degree of polymerisation as a function of curing
conditions are discussed. 17 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.838735
Item 59
Polymer Composites
22, No.5, Oct.2001, p.668-79
KINETIC MODEL FOR FREE-RADICAL
CROSSLINKING CO-POLYMERIZATION OF
STYRENE/VINYLESTER RESIN
Huan Yang; Lee L J
Ohio,State University
The effect of temp. on the cure kinetics of a vinyl ester
resin in the range 35 to 90C was investigated using DSC
and FTIR spectroscopy. A mechanistic kinetic model was
developed to simulate the reaction rate and conversion
profiles of vinyl ester vinylene and styrene vinyl groups,
as well as the total reaction rate and conversion.
Experimental results from DSC and FTIR at different
temps. were compared with model predictions. The Tg
of the vinyl ester resin cured at different temps. was
identified and used to monitor the final conversion change.
A series of Seemann Composite Resin Infusion Moulding
Process(SCRIMP) moulding experiments was conducted.
The developed kinetic model in conjunction with a heat
transfer model was used to simulate the temp. and
conversion changes inside the SCRIMP-moulded
composites. 32 refs.
USA
Accession no.838268
Item 60
Structural Adhesives in Engineering VI. Conference
Proceedings.
Bristol, 4th-6th July 2001, p.35-8, 012
MONITORING CURE AND STRAIN
DEVELOPMENT IN A STRUCTURAL
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
ADHESIVE
Kazilas M C; Ye C; Partridge I K; Tatam R P
Cranfield,University
(IOM Communications Ltd.)
Results are reported of recent experiments on
simultaneous real-time monitoring of the state-of-cure and
the state-of-strain during a 30C cure of an epoxy resin
adhesive, suitable for automotive applications. The cure
monitoring was carried out with the use of an embedded
dielectric microsensor, while the strain monitoring was
carried out by interrogating in-fibre Bragg grating(IFBG)
optical sensors embedded alongside the dielectric sensors.
The data revealed that the resin gelled after 72 minutes
after mixing and vitrified close to 89 minutes after mixing.
The vitrification was accompanied by an axial strain in
the IFBG of between 0.01 and 0.02%. The final linear
shrinkage in this resin, determined after 4 days at ambient
temp., was 0.4%. The main part of the cure shrinkage in
this resin, under the given constant thermal conditions,
occurred post-vitrification. 3 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.838193
Item 61
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
20, No.2, 2001, p.90-104
EFFECT OF SIZING AND LOADING LEVELS
ON THE CURE KINETICS OF CARBON FIBRE
VINYLESTER COMPOSITES
Karbhari V M; Kabalnova L
California,University at San Diego
The curing kinetics of elastomer-modified, carbon fibre-
reinforced reactive vinyl ester resin composites were
investigated using differential scanning calorimetry. The
effects of the loading level of carbon fibre and the
percentage of sizing on the fibre on the cure rate, degree
of cure, time to maximum cure rate and rate constant were
evaluated and the results obtained are compared with those
for epoxy resin-based systems. 16 refs.
USA
Accession no.837129
Item 62
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
20, No.1, 2001, p.52-64
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY OF
UNIDIRECTIONAL REINFORCED COMPOSITE
MATERIALS - EXPERIMENTAL
MEASUREMENT AS A FUNCTION OF STATE OF
CURE
Bailleul J-L; Delaunay D; Jarny Y; Jurkowski T
ISITEM
The development of equipment and an analytical
procedure for determining variations in the thermal
conductivity of composites as a function of temperature
37
 References and Abstracts
and degree of cure is reported. Experimental results for a
glass fibre-reinforced epoxy composite obtained using the
equipment are presented and compared with those
obtained utilising the effective conductivity model of
Hasselman and Benveniste and previously reported data.
11 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.837126
Item 63
Journal of Macromolecular Science B
40, No.3-4, 2001, p.429-41
FLUORESCENCE MONITORING OF CURING
PROCESS AND WATER ACCESSIBILITY AT
GLASS FIBER/EPOXY INTERPHASE ON
COMPOSITE MATERIALS
Gonzalez-Benito J; Mikes F; Bravo J; Aznar A J;
Baselga J
Madrid,Universidad Carlos III
Modified glass fibres with three different aminosilanes
were labelled with 5-dimethylaminonaphthalene-1-
sulphonylchloride and the fluorescence was followed as
a function of curing time and of water uptake for two
epoxide formulations. It was shown that the fluorescence
response from fluorophores directly attached to the
coupling region in glass fibre/epoxy resin composites was
a suitable method for non-destructive and ‘in-situ’
monitoring of any changes that appeared at the interphase
(rigidity and solvent accessibility). Fluorescence from a
dansyl label showed more rigidity when (of the three
aminosilanes tested) 3-aminopropyldimethylethoxysilane
was used as the coupling agent. This suggested that the
epoxy chain interdiffusion decreased with increasing
degree of crosslinking at the coupling region. The water
uptake process in glass fibre/epoxy resin composites could
be divided into two steps, the first corresponding to the
diffusion of water to the coupling region and the second
to the hydrolysis of siloxane bonds in the interphase. Both
steps were dependent on the surface treatment of the glass
fibres. 29 refs. (Europhysics Conference on Structure
Development during Polymer Processing: Physical
Aspects, Sept.2000, Minho, Portugal)
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.836377
Item 64
Reinforced Plastics
45, No.11, Nov.2001, p.19
STUDYING CURE RATES OF COMPOSITES
It is briefly reported that the latest product from
Holometrix Micromet is a laboratory measurement system
for the dielectric analysis of polymers and in-process cure
monitoring of thermoset resins. The MDE Series 20 is
designed to enable users of thermoset composites, resins,
38
paints and coatings to study the cure behaviour of these
materials in the laboratory and in actual processing
environments such as ovens, presses, moulds and
autoclaves. Typical applications include study of cure
rates, optimisation of cycle times and the analysis of
curing behaviour within a part or mould.
HOLOMETRIX MICROMET
USA
Accession no.834730
Item 65
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
32A, No.11, 2001, p.1561-72
PROCESSING OF POLYMER COMPOSITES: AN
OPTICAL FIBRE-BASED SENSOR SYSTEM FOR
ON-LINE AMINE MONITORING
Liu T; Fernando G F
Cranfield,University
An investigation was carried out into the feasibility of
monitoring the efficiency of mixing and the feasibility of
simultaneously monitoring amine concentration and
mixing efficiency in amine/epoxy based composites using
a visible near-infrared monochromator based on a charge
coupled device. The influence of mixing efficiency on
the enthalpy of curing was examined by means of DSC
and transmission spectra at specified mixing conditions
presented and discussed. 17 refs.
USA
Accession no.832749
Item 66
Plastics, Rubber and Composites
29, No.8, 2000, p.391-4
DIELECTRIC FLOW SENSING IN RESIN
TRANSFER MOULDING OF CARBON FIBRE
REINFORCED COMPOSITES
Skordos A A; Partridge I K
Cranfield,University
An in situ dielectric technique for sensing flow is outlined
and shown to be suitable for use in moulding of
composites from liquid resins containing continuous
conducting fibres. This work builds upon the recent
development of a sensor for monitoring flow and cure in
thermosetting composites with (non-conductive) glass
reinforcements. The linear relationship between the
position of the flow front in the mould and the electrical
admittance of the sensor system, observed in resins with
non-conductive reinforcements, is found to extend to
resins containing conducting fibres. The performance of
the sensor in detecting the position of the flow front is
evaluated by comparison with visual observations. The
capability of the sensing system to monitor the cure of
the resin after mould filling is also investigated. The
results demonstrate that the sensor can both locate the
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
flow front accurately and monitor the cure, identifying
vitrification in a way similar to conventional
microdielectrometry. Data from flow measurements are
output in complex number format, which offers the
potential to produce a method that can be used to evaluate
the performance of the sensor system quantitatively. 19
refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.831722
Item 67
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
82, No.3, 17th Oct.2001, p.546-54
PHOTOPOLYMERIZABLE ACRYLIC RESIN:
EFFECT OF CURING TIME AND
TEMPERATURE
Dolez P; Marek M; Love B J
Virginia,Tech
The bond strength and uncured monomer extraction from
an underwater, photopolymerised, bonding adhesive was
examined with respect to cure temperatures between 1
and 25 degrees centigrade, and cure times from 30 seconds
to 10 minutes. Bond strength was determined by lap shear
testing, and remaining monomer by high pressure liquid
chromatography. Similar trends were found in time
dependence for both lap shear and extraction tests.
Temperature dependence was not quantifiable, with
constant adhesive strength observed for all cure
temperatures. Adhesives were based on a 2 to 1 ratio of
bisphenol A diglycidyl ether dimethacrylate and a
triethylene glycol dimethacrylate. 16 refs
USA
Accession no.830170
Item 68
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
81, No.13, 23rd Sept.2001, p.3220-30
CHT AND TTT CURING DIAGRAMS OF
POLYFLAVONOID TANNIN RESINS
Garnier S; Pizzi A
Nancy I,University
Tannin based adhesives were in situ hardened directly in
wood joints and their TTT and CHT curing diagrams were
built using thermomechanical analysis. The cure curve
trends were similar to those obtained for synthetic
polycondensation resins on lignocellulose substrates. The
factors affecting the relative position of the vitrification
and gel curves were discussed. 18 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.829911
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 69
Macromolecular Chemistry & Physics
202, No.9, 6th July 2001, p.1924-34
FLUORESCENT PROBES FOR MONITORING
THE UV CURING OF ACRYLIC ADHESIVES. I.
FTIR AND FLUORESCENCE IN REAL TIME
Peinado C; Salvador E F; Baselga J; Catalina F
Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnologia de Polimeros;
Madrid,Universidad Carlos III
An attempt was made to establish a correlation between
fluorescence and conversion during UV curing of acrylic
adhesives. The change of fluorescence parameters
(intensity and maximum wavelength) was followed during
the photocuring of the adhesives (Loctite 350 and Loctite
312) under UV irradiation from a conventional medium-
pressure mercury lamp (steady-state irradiation). Real
time IR spectroscopy was used to measure the conversion
reached at different irradiation times. Linear correlations
between fluorescence intensity and conversion were
obtained for some fluorescent probes during UV curing.
Fluorescence band shifts were also detected during
photopolymerisation and the volume occupied by the
fluorescence probe appeared to be the parameter that
would determine the sensitivity of the probe to detection
of the changes in viscosity/polarity occurring during UV
curing. Post-polymerisation reactions were also
investigated by fluorescence and DMA. 28 refs.
LOCTITE CORP.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.827442
Item 70
Antec 2001.Conference proceedings.
Dallas, Texas, 6th-10th May, 2001, paper 469
TTT DIAGRAM DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH
PERFORMANCE EPOXY RESIN AND PREPREG
Zukas W X; Ghiorse L L
US,Army Soldier & Biological Chemical Command;
US,Army Research Laboratory
(SPE)
A time-temperature-transformation diagram was
constructed for a thermoplastic-toughened high-
performance epoxy resin and prepreg, to investigate the
possibility of solid state curing. The diagram was
developed using torsional braid analysis (TBA) and
differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Isothermal
curing and constant heating rate scans from room
temperature to 275 C were used for the TBA. Two thermal
cycles were employed for the DSC: a constant heating
rate to an isothermal hold at 120 C or 180 C; and a constant
rate heating from room temperature to 300 C. It was
concluded that solid state curing was feasible. 5 refs.
USA
Accession no.827199
39
 References and Abstracts
Item 71
Composites Science & Technology
61, No.10, 2001, p.1485-9
ESTIMATION OF THE CROSSLINKING RATIO
AND GLASS TRANSITION TEMPERATURE
DURING CURING OF AMINE-CROSSLINKED
EPOXIES
Legrand M; Bellenger V
ENSAM
An estimation tool developed for the cure optimisation
of carbon fibre-reinforced epoxy resins was used to
determine the variation in component temperature, the
crosslinking ratio, and the Tg of the matrix during a cure
cycle. A different cure temperature cycle was applied to
the same prepreg and the experimental values of Tg and
crosslinking ratio of partially cured samples were
compared with calculated values. 11 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.826934
Item 72
Polymer
42, No.19, 2001, p.8051-4
STUDY OF A COMMERCIAL DENTAL RESIN BY
1H STRAY-FIELD MAGNETIC RESONANCE
IMAGING
Nunes T G; Pires R; Perdigao J; Amorim A; Polido M
ICTPOL/IST; Minnesota,University; Portugal,Instituto
Superior de Ciencias da Saude
The potentialities of recent nuclear magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) techniques were evaluated using a dentine/
enamel resin containing methacrylate monomers, included
in a new generation adhesive system. Spatially-resolved
information was obtained on the photo-polymerisation
reaction and subsequent polymerisation shrinkage. 1H
stray-field MRI one-dimensional images (1D profiles) of
visible-light cured resins were obtained in the presence
of oxygen from the atmosphere, and the variation of
magnetisation with irradiation time was recorded for each
resin slice. The spatial distribution of the unreacted methyl
methacrylate groups was obtained from stray-field
experiments, and the polymerisation shrinkage was
obtained from ID profiles. The thickness of the surface
remaining unpolymerised was measured. 19 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; PORTUGAL;
USA; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.826650
Item 73
Composites Science & Technology
Vol.61, No.6, 2001, p.911-9
AN EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF
THROUGH-THICKNESS ELECTRICAL
RESISTIVITY OF CFRP LAMINATES
Louis M; Joshi S P; Brockmann W
40
Texas,Arlington University; Kaiserslautern,University
Together with longitudinal and in-plane transverse
resistivity, the through-thickness electrical resistivity can
be utilised in developing simple and cost-effective means
of health and usage monitoring of CFRP laminated
composites. The majority of research has been focused on
understanding the electrical conductivity only in the fibre
direction. The objective was to investigate the through-
thickness electrical resistivity of CFRPs. The external
factors should be eliminated to obtain a true specific
resistivity in thorough-thickness direction. Following the
establishment of a procedure to measure the resistivity, the
effect of degree of curve, in-plane prepreg tape interfaces
within a ply, material system, and ply orientation in a
laminate is discussed. It was observed that the partial curing
increases the resistivity. In-plane interfaces within a ply
create wide scatter in resistivity values. For identifying the
materials system of a CFRP component significant variation
from one carbon fibre/epoxy system to another is required.
The specific resistivity in through-thickness direction
increases with increasing angle between the fibres of
adjacent plies. 5 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
USA; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.826563
Item 74
Composites Science & Technology
Vol.61, No.6, 2001, p.889-94
THE DIELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF GLASS-
FIBRE-REINFORCED EPOXY RESIN DURING
POLYMERISATION
Nixdorf K; Busse G
Stuttgart,University
The cure of thermosets can be monitored by the change
in their dielectric properties between 10 Hz and 1 MHz.
Experimental results were obtained using a glass fibre-
reinforced epoxy resin with anhydride hardener and
tertiary amine catalyst. During the first heating phase at
80 degrees Celsius the resin conductivity (which is
correlated wit the Newtonian viscosity by a power law)
decreases by several factors of 10. In the subsequent
heating phase at 104 degrees Celsius, the glass transition
process is identified as a broad maximum of the dielectric
loss factor at 30 kHz. The shift of the loss factor peak to
lower frequencies with cure time denotes the increasing
relaxation time of the curing system. The relaxation time
and the conductivity are indicators for cure monitoring
that do not rely on frequency. They are therefore
appropriate for a comparison with other methods such as
FTIR, DSC, and rheometrical studies. Analysis of the
glass transition is carried out in the complex plane with a
skewed arc function. During curing there is no significant
change in the shape of the dielectric complex-plane plot.
The cure-monitoring parameters conductivity and
relaxation time are not significantly affected by glass fibre
reinforcement. The relaxation strength and the maximum
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
value of the loss factor only are reduced as a consequence
of the low loss factor of the glass fibres. 23 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.826560
Item 75
159th ACS RUBBER DIVISION MEETING -
SPRING 2001. Held Rhode Island. 24th-27th April
2001.
Akron,Oh., 2001, Paper No.18, pp.17. 012
CURE STUDIES OF PHENOLIC BONDING
AGENTS USING TGA, FTIR AND CONTACT
ANGLE
Moore M J
Freudenberg-NOK
(ACS,Rubber Div.)
The cure of phenol-formaldehyde resin rubber-to-metal
adhesives was studied by TGA, IR spectroscopy and
surface energy measurements. The possible benefits of
baking of coated metal inserts prior to moulding were
considered. IR spectra revealed the formation of quinone
methide groups that could play a role in the bonding
mechanism. Solventborne and aqueous adhesives were
compared and the effect of their differences on bonding
was examined. Surface energy measurements provided a
rapid method for assessing differences between solvent
and water-based novolac dispersions. 5 refs.
USA
Accession no.824936
Item 76
High Performance Polymers
13, No.2, June 2001, p.S61-72
MOLECULAR DESIGN OF HEAT RESISTANT
POLYIMIDES HAVING EXCELLENT
PROCESSABILITY AND HIGH GLASS
TRANSITION TEMPERATURE
Yokota R; Yamamoto S; Yano S; Sawaguchi T;
Hasegawa M; Yamaguchi H; Ozawa H; Sato R
Japan,Institute of Space & Astronautical Science;
Tokyo,Nihon University; Toho,University; Ube
Industries Ltd.
Relationships between imide structure and morphology
are discussed in order to develop heat resistant polyimides
having improved processability and toughness. Thermal
curing, and thermal and rheological properties were
investigated using FTIR, DSC, TGA, and dynamic
rheometry. Carbon fibre-reinforced polyimides were also
examined. 16 refs.
JAPAN
Accession no.823871
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 77
Antec 2001.Conference proceedings.
Dallas, Texas, 6th-10th May, 2001, paper 245
INVESTIGATION OF NON-THERMAL EFFECTS
PRODUCED BY ULTRASONIC HEATING ON
CURING OF TWO-PART EPOXY ADHESIVE
Kin Ming Kwan; Benatar A
Ohio,State University
(SPE)
The reaction kinetics of the curing of a two-part epoxy
adhesive, subjected to pulsed ultrasonic heating, were
studied using differential scanning calorimetry. A
chemical model, based on a four parameter semi-empirical
model, was developed to separate non-thermal effects of
the ultrasonic vibration from the thermal effects arising
from the ultrasonic heating. Non-thermal effects were
most significant at the start of the curing process,
gradually reducing in significance with time. After 50 s
of pulsed ultrasonic curing, the conversion was
approximately three times greater than that obtained by
thermal heating. 12 refs.
USA
Accession no.823744
Item 78
Antec 2001.Conference proceedings.
Dallas, Texas, 6th-10th May, 2001, paper 215
APPLICATION OF CHEMO-RHEOLOGY TO
ESTABLISH A PROCESS WINDOW FOR A NEW
SOLVENTLESS SYSTEM TO MANUFACTURE
PRE-PREGS AND LAMINATES FOR
ELECTRONIC APPLICATIONS
Dehnke L M; Permadi; Castro J M
Ohio,State University
(SPE)
A continuous process for the production of glass fibre-
reinforced epoxy laminates for electronic applications has
been developed which uses no solvent for the epoxy. The
fibre reinforcement is impregnated with epoxy using a die,
layers being combined either in the die or subsequently in
an oven. The final curing and pressing are achieved using
a belt clamp. This process is environmentally friendly and
eliminates voids in the prepreg. Optimum process
parameters were investigated using a mixture of non-
brominated diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA),
brominated DGEBA, and 2,4-ethyl-methyl-imidazole
catalyst which is soluble in DGEBA without the use of a
solvent. Catalyst levels of 0.05% and 0.1 wt%, and fused
silica additions of 10-40 wt% were investigated. Reaction
kinetics were determined using isothermal differential
scanning calorimetry, and rheological properties using a
parallel plate rheometer. 12 refs.
USA
Accession no.823714
41
 References and Abstracts
Item 79
Adhasion Kleben & Dichten
42, No.9, 1998, p.37-41
German
CHARACTERISING THE CROSS LINKAGE OF
POLYMER RESINS
Geisse D; Busse G
Stuttgart,University
By using the so-called Odd Mode Energy Measurement,
cross linkage status can be very accurately quantified even
in very thin polymer layers in metal bondings. Energy
detected during curing for odd oscillation modes produces
characteristic quantities that describe varying states of
cross linkage in polymers. Consequently, there is the
possibility of later predicting the toughness to be achieved
for a bonding. Here structured experiments are reviewed
during the use of a computer system, a resonance test,
epoxy resin application and a total spectrum of odd and
even modes. 8 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.823362
Item 80
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
32A, No.8, 2001, p.1133-42
AFFORDABLE PROCESSING OF THICK
SECTION AND INTEGRAL MULTI-
FUNCTIONAL COMPOSITES
Vaidya U K; Abraham A; Bhide S
North Dakota State University
Structural load-bearing composite GRP laminates and
integral armour parts were produced by vacuum assisted
resin transfer/infusion moulding (VARTM) and closed-
mould resin transfer moulding (CMRTM) and their
properties evaluated using various techniques, including
static compression tests, high strain rate impact tests and
ballistic impact testing. The microstructure of the VARTM
processed laminates was compared with that of the
CMRTM laminates and a DC-based sensing technique
was used to monitor the flow and curing of the liquid
resin during processing of the laminates. Ultrasonic C-
scans were also performed on the laminates. The results
obtained indicated that VARTM was a cost-effective
process for producing such composites. 15 refs.
USA
Accession no.823015
Item 81
Macromolecular Symposia
Vol. 169, May 2001, p.179-84
EFFECT OF THE CARBON FILLER ON THE
CURING KINETICS OF EPOXYCYANATE
COOLIGOMER
42
Fainleib A; Slinchkenko E; Brovko O; Sergeeva L;
Dubkova V; Frisch H
Ukraine,National Academy of Sciences; Belarus
Academy of Sciences
The influence of carbon fibre on the curing kinetics of
the prepolymer based on bisphenol A cyanurate and epoxy
resin was studied using infrared spectroscopy. It was found
that the curing process of the prepolymer was very
complicated, with a number of the sequential
transformations overlapping. The introduction of the
carbon fibre of two types, original and modified
containing phosphate groups, strongly affect the curing
of the prepolymer, both accelerating the conversion rate
of epoxy groups. With respect to cyanate groups, the
former hardly affects their conversion, whereas the latter
decelerates strongly this process. 15 refs.
BELARUS; BELORUSSIA; UKRAINE
Accession no.822660
Item 82
Polymer International
50, No.6, June 2001, p.651-8
ADDITION-CURE PHENOLIC RESINS BASED ON
PROPARGYL ETHER FUNCTIONAL NOVOLACS:
SYNTHESIS, CURING AND PROPERTIES
Bindu R L; Nair C P R; Ninan K N
Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre
Phenolic resins with varying amounts of propargyl ether
functional groups were synthesised by the Williamson
reaction of a novolac with propargyl bromide. The resin
precursors were cured via Claisen rearrangement of the
propargyl ether groups and thermal polymerisation. The
activation energy for thermal curing was lower than that
of model bispropargyl ether compounds but was
independent of the degree of functionalisation. The cure
profile predicted by DSC kinetic data matched the
dynamic mechanical analysis results well. Glass fabric-
and glass fibre-reinforced composites of the resins, with
different propargyl contents, showed good consolidation
of the interphases (there was an initial gain in both
interlaminar shear strength and flexural strength.
However, when the resin was crosslinked further, the
composite failed by a combination of fibre debonding and
brittle fracture of the matrix. The resins showed better
thermal stability than cured resoles, but high degrees of
propargylation adversely affected the thermal stability.
Resins with moderate propargylation showed good
mechanical and thermal properties. 23 refs.
INDIA
Accession no.819208
Item 83
Smart Materials & Structures
10, No.2, April 2001, p.326-31
REPORT ON A SIMULTANEOUS ION
VISCOSITY, STRAIN AND IMPEDANCE
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUE USING A NOVEL
INTEGRATED DIELECTRIC, OPTICAL FIBRE
AND PIEZOELECTRIC SENSING ELEMENT
FOR THE ONLINE CHARACTERISATION OF
SMART STRUCTURES
Talaie A; Kosaka T; Oshima N; Osaka K; Asano Y;
Fukuda T
Osaka,City University
A simultaneous ion viscosity, strain and impedance (SISI)
system for measurement of the physical and chemical
properties of composites during cure process described.
The SISI system uses an integrated multi-sensing element,
entitled DOP, that is comprised of dielectric (D), optical
fibre (O) and piezoelectric (P) sensors. This system is
used to measure several data simultaneously in real time
and in situ. The results clearly show that there is a direct
relationship between the ion viscosity, impedance and
strain changes during the curing process. It is found that
dielectric sensor is very sensitive to physical and chemical
changes of the composite both in the heating and
crosslinking periods. The piezoelectric proves to be a
useful element during the heating period with a very
sensitive and surprising behaviour during the cooling
period. The optical fibre also demonstrates a very striking
profile in strain variations during cooling. 14 refs.
JAPAN
Accession no.818042
Item 84
ACS Polymeric Materials Science and Engineering.
Volume 75. Conference Proceedings.
Orlando, FL., Fall 1996, p.361
EVOLUTION OF PROPERTIES OF A
THERMOSETTING ISOCYANATE/EPOXY/
GLASS FIBER MODEL COMPOSITE SYSTEM
WITH INCREASING CURE
DeMeuse M T; Gilham J K; Parodi F
EniChem America Inc.; Princeton,University; EniChem
SpA
(ACS,Div.of Polymeric Materials Science & Engng.)
Studies were carried out on a methodology for monitoring
the evolution of isothermal physical properties of
thermosetting systems with increasing conversion (cure).
Measurements of modulus versus temperature of a single
composite specimen were obtained on repetitive cooling
and subsequent heating to successively higher
temperatures: cooling and subsequent heating data often
showed thermohysteresis. Plots of isothermal modulus
versus conversion (as measured in the same experiment
by glass transition) were obtained by cross-plotting for a
broad range of temperatures (for example, from minus 180
degrees Celsius to 380 degrees Celsius) from both the
cooling and the heating data. A measure of toughness of
the matrix versus conversion through the extent of
hysteresis of the data was obtained by comparing the
isothermal cooling and heating data. The approach
depended on the use of a composite specimen and the ability
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
to obtain both data on cooling and on heating. It also
depended on the effect of microcracking (which it was
assumed is responsible for the hysteresis) could be removed
by heating (healing) near the glass transition and on a single
specimen providing an internal reference for comparing
differences in isothermal modulus versus conversion data
at different temperatures. It was also assumed that glass
transition is a direct measure of conversion. 0 refs.
USA
Accession no.817120
Item 85
Adhesives Age
44, No.3, Mar.2001, p.24/9
ADHESIVE BONDS
Hussain A
Comtech GmbH
In order to understand the adhesion and failure phenomena
of adhesive bonds, characterisation of the substrate
surface, before applying adhesives, and the cure mode of
adhesives are very important. For studying the surface
roughness in the submicron range, atomic force
microscopy is proving to be increasingly important.
Depending upon the thickness of surface treatment and/
or coupling agents, surface analytical techniques like
FTIR, ESCA and/or TOFSIMS are almost indispensable.
Results of contact angle measurements can be correlated
with those obtained from these techniques. Contamination
is one of the bigger enemies in surface engineering and
ESCA/TOFSIMS are proving extremely helpful in
detecting and combating tile enemy. After an adhesive is
applied on the substrate, it is imperative to investigate
the cure/crosslinking mode of the adhesive - especially
for epoxides and PU adhesives - in an accurate way.
MDSC, DMTA and DETA/DEA are employed very
successfully as analytical tools for following the degree
of cure. 2 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.815819
Item 86
Adhasion Kleben & Dichten
42, No.6, 1998, p.36-40
German
FAULTY ONLINE CURING ON TRACK (PART I)
De Wit F; Raeckers B
DASA
Tests have produced the result that there is no doubt that
dielectric analysis has made crosslinking procedures
possible with non-destructive consequences during the
running of a process. This method is demonstrated in a
two-part article by using the example of the curing routine
for an epoxy resin prepreg.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.814441
43
 References and Abstracts
Item 87
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
80, No.10, 31st May 2001, p.1664-74
PHENOLIC RESINS WITH PHENYL
MALEIMIDE FUNCTIONS: THERMAL
CHARACTERISTICS AND LAMINATE
COMPOSITE PROPERTIES
Bindu R L; Reghunadhan Nair C P; Ninan K N
Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre
Phenolic resins, with varying concentrations of phenyl
maleimide functions, were synthesised by the
copolymerisation of phenol with N-(4-
hydroxyphenyl)maleimide (HPM) and formaldehyde in the
presence of an acid catalyst. The curing, studied using
dynamic mechanical analysis, was two-stage, with network
build-up being predominantly associated with maleimide
polymerisation rather than methylol condensation. The
mechanical properties of silica glass-reinforced composites
were studied as a function of the polymer composition and
curing temperature. The properties were superior to those
of conventional phenolics, and were dependent upon the
maleimide content and the degree of curing. The initial
thermal decomposition temperature of the resin was not
significantly increased by the presence of HPM, but the
enhanced crosslink density improved the thermal stability
at higher temperatures. The char yield increased with
increasing maleimide content. Isothermal pyrolysis studies
indicated that thermal degradation occurred by
decomposition of hydrocarbon and nitrogen compounds.
18 refs.
INDIA
Accession no.814316
Item 88
International Journal of Adhesion & Adhesives
21, No.2, 2001, p.137-44
EVALUATION OF THE CURE KINETICS OF
THE WOOD/PMDI BONDLINE
Harper D P; Wolcott M P; Rials T G
Washington State,University; US,Dept.of
Agriculture,Forest Service
Micro-dielectric analysis(MDEA) and DSC were used to
monitor cure of polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate
resin with wood strands in a saturated steam environment.
A first-order autocatalysed kinetic model was used to
determine kinetic parameters. The kinetics were found to
follow an Arrhenius relation. A single ramp DSC
technique and MDEA produced models that predicted
similar results at higher cure temps., but the MDEA-based
model predicted a longer cure time at low temps. The
isothermal MDEA method yielded higher activation
energies and Arrhenius frequency factors than models
based on single DSC ramps. A modification to ASTM
E698 was made to conform to the assumption of
autocatalysed kinetics. The modified ASTM E698 method
44
predicted an earlier end of cure than the MDEA-based
models and was in agreement with DSC results obtained
by partial cure experiments. The activation energies and
frequency factors for the different cure monitoring
methods were sensitive to different stages of cure. 16 refs.
USA
Accession no.810651
Item 89
ACS Polymeric Materials Science and Engineering.
Volume 75. Conference Proceedings.
Orlando, FL., Fall 1996, p.204
MODELLING PAINT AND ADHESIVE CURE IN
AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS
Dickie R A; Bauer D R; Ward S M; Wagner D A
US,Food Research Laboratory
(ACS,Div.of Polymeric Materials Science & Engng.)
The network structure that forms during the cure process
largely determines the physical properties of automotive
paints and structural adhesives. In the development of
thermoset coating and adhesive formulations, optimum
cure conditions are defined based on measurements of
physical properties, chemical resistance, and durability.
The range of cure conditions over which a thermoset
material exhibits acceptable performance constitutes a
cure window for the material and can be utilised in
defining acceptable limits of variability for production
processes. There is substantial variation in temperature
resulting in from local variations in heat transfer and
thermal mass. Cure strategies can be assessed using a
combination of heat transfer and chemical kinetic models.
Examples drawn from research on automotive paints and
adhesives are presented. 0 refs.
USA
Accession no.809746
Item 90
Macromolecular Chemistry & Physics
201, No.18, 29th Dec.2000, p.2631-8
COMPOSITES BASED ON CARBON FIBERS
AND LIQUID CRYSTALLINE EPOXY RESINS. I.
MONOMER SYNTHESIS AND MATRIX CURING
Carfagna C; Acierno D; Di Palma V; Amendola E;
Giamberini M
Naples,University; Italy,National Research Council
The synthesis and physical characterisation of a novel
liquid crystalline epoxy resin, used as a matrix for carbon
fibre reinforced composites are presented. The curing
reaction was monitored by calorimetric and rheological
measurements and compared with a conventional
isotropic epoxy thermoset. 28 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.808093
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Item 91
International Journal of Adhesion & Adhesives
21, No.1, 2001, p.35-40
STUDY OF AGEING IN ACRYLIC ADHESIVES
Lyons E; Leahy J J; Hayes K
Limerick,University
DMTA was used to investigate the effects of ageing on
the curing behaviour of air-activated acrylic adhesives.
The aim was to establish if the rate of cure of the adhesives
was retarded on storage at room temp. over a period of
one year. Tubes of adhesives were tested at selected time
intervals and the results were examined using analysis of
variance. It was found that, over a twelve month period,
there was no ageing effect on the cure characteristics of
air-activated adhesives. 7 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; IRELAND;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.807266
Item 92
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
31A, No.12, 2000, p.1373-81
DEVELOPMENT OF A DIELECTRIC SYSTEM
FOR THE ON-LINE CURE MONITORING OF
THE RESIN TRANSFER MOULDING PROCESS
McIlhagger A; Brown D; Hill B
Ulster,University
The aerospace industry has identified the need for an
online cure monitoring system for resin transfer moulding
which can determine the through-thickness cure state of
a composite, without affecting the integrity of the finished
component. Several techniques have been extensively
investigated but dielectric analysis (DEA) appears to offer
the greatest potential. The parallel plate sensor
configuration is appropriate for through-thickness
measurements. Using a laboratory dielectric instrument,
dielectric properties in fibre (conductive and non-
conductive) reinforced composite samples are measured
during a simulated RTM cure cycle. Particular parameters
derived from dielectric measurements are shown to be
useful in terms of monitoring and optimising the RTM
cure cycle. These parameters can be used to identify key
stages in the curing process and to estimate values of the
resin properties at these stages. Correlation of key
dielectric events with other thermal data is shown. Sensors
currently are being developed with a view to incorporation
into the RTM mould. The ultimate aim is the development
of an on-line cure monitoring system for the RTM process
in collaboration with Bombardier Shorts. 43 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.802606
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 93
Natural Polymers and Composites. Conference
proceedings.
Sao Pedro, Brazil, 14th-17th May 2000, p.367-75
CHARACTERISATION OF CASHEW NUT
SHELL LIQUID FOR COMPOSITE
MANUFACTURE
Mwaikambo L; Ansell M P
Bath,University
Edited by: Mattoso L H C; Leao A; Frollini E
(EMBRAPA; UNESP; USP)
Differential scanning calorimetry is applied to study the
change in the glass transition temperature of the oven-
cured resin with and without hexamethylene tetramine
(HMTA) in order to monitor the extent of cure. This is a
new development in the understanding of cashew nut shell
liquid (CNSL) cure characteristics. The glass transition
temperature is found to rise when the alkaline catalysed
resin is subjected to higher curing temperatures regardless
of the concentration of formaldehyde used. The mode of
cure of the NaOH-catalysed CNSL-formaldehyde resin
is found to be more regular with HMTA hardener. FTIR
spectroscopy is used to study the neat CNSL and
polymerised CNSL-formaldehyde resin with and without
HMTA. Analysis of the neat and polymerised CNSL
indicates that reduction of the phenolic hydroxyl groups
and that of the side chain vinyl groups occurs as a result
of CNSL reaction with formaldehyde. The use of the DSC
and FTIR techniques to elucidate the extent of cure of
CNSL resins is a valuable step towards the production of
commercially successful CNSL-natural fibre composites.
7 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.802305
Item 94
Smart Materials & Structures
9, No.6, Dec.2000, p.727-36
ASSESSMENT OF FLOW AND CURE
MONITORING USING DIRECT CURRENT AND
ALTERNATING CURRENT SENSING IN
VACUUM-ASSISTED RESIN TRANSFER
MOLDING
Vaidya U K; Jadkav N C; Hosur M V; Gillespie J W;
Fink B K
North Dakota State University; Tuskegee,University;
Delaware,University; US,Army Research Laboratory
The implementation of SMARTweave, a direct-current-
sensing-based approach, together with the traditional
alternating-current-based dielectric sensing, for cure
monitoring of S2-glass/vinyl ester and epoxy resins in
low-cost, liquid moulding vacuum-assisted resin transfer
moulding processing was performed. Through several
parametric studies, including the influence of the resin
type, single and multiple SMARTweave planes, the use
of carbon and insulated copper sensors and the stitching
45
 References and Abstracts
versus non-stitching of the preform, it was demonstrated
that the SMARTweave technique of cure and resin
position/flow monitoring had definite advantages, in terms
of obtaining global cure information, over traditional
sensing techniques. 10 refs.
USA
Accession no.800685
Item 95
West Conshohocken, PA, 2000, pp.2. NALOAN.
ASTM D 3532-. TEST METHOD FOR GEL TIME
OF CARBON FIBER-EPOXY PREPREG
American Society for Testing & Materials
ASTM D 3532-
Version 99. Photocopies and loans of this document are
not available from Rapra.
USA
Accession no.796556
Item 96
SAMPE Journal
35, No.3, May/June 1999, p.64-72
USE OF PROCESS MODELS TO CONTROL AND
OPTIMIZE PULTRUSION-TYPE PROCESSES
Voorakaranam S; Joseph B; Kardos J L
Washington,University
The use of process models to control and optimise
pultrusion-type processes for reinforced plastics materials
is discussed. It is shown that on-line process models can
be developed and used to overcome the limitations
imposed by the lack of adequate sensors to monitor key
processing variables such as quality and exit cure
condition. An additional attraction of the model-predictive
control strategy is the ability it provides for operators to
view the forecasted behaviour of the process. 17 refs.
USA
Accession no.795909
Item 97
SAMPE Journal
35, No.2, March/April 1999, p.47-51
BEYOND THE THERMOCOUPLE
Williamson R
Signature Control Systems
The development of a fully integrated system for Intelligent
Process Control, which uses impedance sensors and
SmartCure expert system software to provide visibility and
control of the curing process for materials, such as structural
composites, engineering plastics and rubber products, is
reported. The system includes installation, training, data
acquisition and control hardware as well as the expert
system software and sensors and is capable of optimising
cycle times and improving product uniformity. The expert
system software recognises a unique data signature
provided by the sensors and automatically controls the
46
curing process based on the actual chemical and physical
state of the material being cured.
USA
Accession no.793612
Item 98
SAMPE Journal
35, No.2, March/April 1999, p.39-46
RTM EQUIPMENT AND PROCESS
AUTOMATION
Moore M F; Bland R J
Plastech TT
Methods of achieving improved production rates and cost
benefits in the resin transfer moulding of composites
through selection of the most suitable preform, mould
manipulation and mould clamping are considered and
recent developments in the automation of the RTM
process, which are bringing about increasing levels of
production, are highlighted. These developments include
Plastech’s MegaPress range of programmable logic
controlled pneumatic presses, Hypaject range of pressure
pot resin injection machines, Megaject meter-mix
injection machines, Autosprue inlet valve unit, Mold
Pressure Guard system, catalyst flow monitoring system
and resin cure monitoring system.
USA
Accession no.793611
Item 99
Journal of Composite Materials
34, No.22, 2000, p.1926-47
NEW METHOD TO REDUCE CURE-INDUCED
STRESSES IN THERMOSET POLYMER
COMPOSITES. III. CORRELATING STRESS
HISTORY TO VISCOSITY, DEGREE OF CURE,
AND CURE SHRINKAGE
Madhukar M S; Genidy M S; Russell J D; Lee A Y
Tennessee,University; US,Air Force Research
Laboratory; Michigan,State University
Details are given of the effect of different cure cycles on
residual stress in epoxy resins. The percentage specific
volume change during cure cycles was measured by a
volumetric dilatometer. The volumetric response was
compared with dielectric data, with degree of cure
calculations, and with fibre stress data. 16 refs.
USA
Accession no.792509
Item 100
Journal of Composite Materials
34, No.22, 2000, p.1905-25
NEW METHOD TO REDUCE CURE-INDUCED
STRESSES IN THERMOSET POLYMER
COMPOSITES. II. CLOSED LOOP FEEDBACK
CONTROL SYSTEM
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Madhukar M S; Genidy M S; Russell J D
Tennessee,University; US,Air Force Research
Laboratory
A closed loop feedback control system was developed to
obtain cure cycles which reduce the cure-induced stresses
in single fibre/matrix model composites. Thermal
expansion and stress relaxation were used to counteract
the stresses resulting from the chemical shrinkage. The
feedback system was applied to carbon and glass fibres
in epoxy resins and bismaleimide resins. 9 refs.
USA
Accession no.792508
Item 101
Journal of Composite Materials
34, No.22, 2000, p.1882-904
NEW METHOD TO REDUCE CURE-INDUCED
STRESSES IN THERMOSET POLYMER
COMPOSITES. I. TEST METHOD
Madhukar M S; Genidy M S; Russell J D
Tennessee,University; US,Air Force Research
Laboratory
Details are given of a new method to monitor fibre stresses
that develop during cure in single fibre model composites.
The method was used to study the effect of changing the
cure cycle on curing induced fibre stresses in a graphite
fibre-reinforced epoxy resin. A cure cycle was almost zero
cure-induced stresses is demonstrated. 23 refs.
USA
Accession no.792507
Item 102
2000 Spring Convention and Exposition:
Manufacturing Technology Management. Conference
proceedings..
Las Vegas, Nv., 2nd-5th April 2000, paper 42
DEVELOPING A SYSTEM-LEVEL
MONITORING INSTRUMENT FOR UV-CURING
SYSTEMS
Dehkordi P H; Riner J L; Ingram D E
Applied Computing Technology Inc.
(Adhesive & Sealant Council Inc.)
The use is described of the Spectralyze system-level
monitoring instrument for monitoring UV curing systems.
The challenges involved in the development of a
spectrometer-based monitoring instrument and its
associated software for the evaluation of the operation
and maintenance of ultraviolet curing systems, are
discussed. In addition, the customer benefits of the
instrument are summarised in terms of calibrating and/or
optimising the curing systems used, to show the
correlation between the quality of the curing process and
the diagnostic capability of the equipment.
USA
Accession no.792462
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 103
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
19, No.15, 2000, p.1235-50
CURE MONITORING OF MATRIX RESIN WITH
HIGH-FREQUENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC
WAVE TRANSMISSION LINE
Urabe K; Takahashi J; Tsuda H; Kemmochi K
Japan,National Institute of Materials & Chemical
Research
A high-frequency electromagnetic wave transmission line
was constructed inside or on the surface of a material and
changes in the characteristics of the line during the curing
process were measured. The use of a high-frequency
electromagnetic wave was mainly aimed at obtaining
information on the position of the discontinuity or
distribution of material properties, making use of its short
wavelength. As the first stage of the investigation, an
experimental set-up of a microstrip line and a parallel
wire line was constructed and changes in the frequency
characteristics of reflectance from each of the lines were
monitored during the curing of epoxy resin between the
pair of conductors of the line. Changes in the
characteristics when the resin was partly filled were also
investigated to examine the possibility of detecting local
distributions or discontinuities. The experimental results
were explained by theoretical calculations. The results
obtained in this study demonstrated the potential of the
transmission line of a high-frequency electromagnetic
wave as a tool for in-situ monitoring of curing and other
properties. 26 refs.
JAPAN
Accession no.791234
Item 104
Polymer Process Engineering 99. Conference
proceedings.
London, June 1999, p.117-42
OPTICAL FIBRE SENSORS FOR PROCESS AND
CONDITION MONITORING OF COMPOSITES
Fernando G F; Liu T; Crosby P A
Cranfield,University
Edited by: Coates P D
(Institute of Materials; UK,Interdisciplinary Research
Centre in Polymer Science & Technology;
Bradford,University)
Advanced fibre reinforced composites (AFRCs) have a
number of advantages compared to conventional metallic
materials, such as high specific strength and low thermal
expansion coefficient. However, their damage
mechanisms are more complex due to their composition
and laminated structures. A major concern with AFRCs
is that they can sustain significant material damage
without this being visible from the surface. On-line, non-
destructive monitoring of the integrity of an AFRC
structure in service conditions will prevent catastrophic
events from happening. The philosophies behind various
condition-monitoring techniques are summarised.
47
 References and Abstracts
Emphasis is placed on fibre optic strain sensing
techniques, which have been demonstrated or potentially
could be used for condition monitoring in AFRCs. The
application of fibre optic strain sensors for impact and
fatigue damage detection in composites is briefly
discussed. The ability of multiplexing a number of sensors
in one fibre is a unique advantage of fibre optic sensors.
Another is the ability to monitor strain distribution along
the length of the fibre. The basic concept of multiplexed
and distributed strain sensors and their applications in
strain and temperature monitoring in composites is
described. The cross-talk between axial strain and
transverse strain as well as temperature interference are
major issues for the application of fibre optic strain sensors
in AFRCs. Various approaches have been developed for
simultaneously measuring strain and temperature.
Attempts have also been made to demonstrate
simultaneous measurements of three-axis strain and
temperature. 74 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.790086
Item 105
ICAC 99. Conference proceedings.
Bristol, UK, 23rd-24th Sept.1999, p.133-43
IDENTIFICATION OF KEY CURE STAGES IN
LIQUID MOULDING PROCESSES BY
PARALLEL PLATE DIELECTRIC ANALYSIS
McIlhagger A T; Matthews S T; Brown D; Hill B
Ulster,University
(IOM Communications Ltd.; Ulster,University;
IMechE)
The aerospace industry has recognised the major benefits
associated with fibre reinforced composite materials. The
more popular techniques available for composite
production are the traditional wet lay-up or autoclave and
resin transfer moulding (RTM). Efforts to further reduce
processing time and improve part quality have focused
on improved process control. To date this has been based
on off-line techniques. The need for on-line cure
monitoring is widely recognised and this will require the
development of suitable in-mould sensors. The
Engineering Composites Research Centre (ECKE) has
investigated and concentrated on the specific problems
encountered in the aerospace industry. Of the available
cure monitoring methods, parallel plate dielectric analysis
(DEA) appears to offer the greatest potential for
determining the through-thickness cure state of the resin
during cure. A laboratory dielectric instrument is utilised
to simulate RTM and autoclave cure cycles for composite
structures containing non-conductive and conductive
fibres and for different resin systems used in the aerospace
industry. Key resin cure stages are identified by an
appropriate dielectric signal and correlated with data from
other thermal and mechanical techniques. Insulated
parallel plate dielectric sensors are being developed for
48
use in the laboratory instrument with the potential for
incorporation into composite production tooling. 26 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.790059
Item 106
ICAC 99. Conference proceedings.
Bristol, UK, 23rd-24th Sept.1999, p.125-32
COMPARISON OF DIELECTRIC AND
ULTRASONIC CURE MONITORING OF
ADVANCED COMPOSITES
Shepard D D; Smith K R; Thibodeau L H
Holometrix Micromet
(IOM Communications Ltd.; Ulster,University;
IMechE)
Dielectric measurements are widely used for the cure
monitoring of thermosetting resins and composites. The
ability to implant disposable dielectric sensors within a
part or install permanent dielectric sensors in a mould
wall or tool makes dielectric cure monitoring a very
versatile in-process cure monitoring technique,
Commercial dielectric cure monitoring systems,
comprising of an electronics package, sensors, cabling
and software are available which enable routine use in
research, development and production. Measurements of
the ultrasonic sound speed of thermosetting resins and
composites can also be used for in-process cure
monitoring. Previously, use of ultrasonic measurements
as a cure monitoring technique had been hindered by poor
reliability of ultrasonic transducers under typical
processing conditions, especially thermal cycling to
elevated temperatures. A self-contained, in-mould, robust
ultrasonic sensor is available that is capable of
withstanding hundreds of thermal cycles up to 260 deg.C.
This sensor technology enables ultrasonic sound speed
measurements to be routinely made during the processing
of thermosets. Commercial ultrasonic cure monitoring
systems, comprising of an electronic package, sensors,
cabling and software are also now available. 8 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.790058
Item 107
Plastics, Rubber and Composites
29, No.3, 2000, p.109-18
ULTRASONIC MEASUREMENTS RELATED TO
EVOLUTION OF STRUCTURE IN CURING
EPOXY RESINS
Challis R E; Freemantle R J; Cocker R P; Chacwick D L;
Dare D J; Martin C; Mahendrasingam A; Fuller W
Nottingham,University; Keele,University;
Manchester,Metropolitan University
The tracking of the cure of epoxy adhesives and the
assessment of the cure state of adhesive bondlines joining
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
engineering components are important for quality
assurance during manufacture and for the safe functioning
of manufactured assemblies in the field. Ultrasound can
be used to give estimates of the compression modulus of
curing and cured materials and thereby provide a means
to assess non-destructively the cure state of adhered joints
during manufacture and in service. These techniques are
at present difficult to apply and are predominantly
empirical in that little is known about the relationships
between the measured ultrasound data and the evolving
molecular structure of the adhesive as it cures. The
application of a group of physical techniques that can be
used to characterise the polymer structure during cure is
described, with the aim of relating these to phenomena
measurable by ultrasound. Wide angle X-ray scattering
(WAXS) provides a basic measure of polymer chain
formation, which is seen to correlate closely with the
compression modulus as it develops during cure. Low
resolution NMR provides a means to observe the mobility
of bound hydrogen nuclei and thereby to track the change
in state of a resin hardener system from a viscous liquid
to a crosslinked solid. The NMR data obtained during
cure correlates well with compression modulus
development. Ultrasonic shear wave spectrometry
indicates when a curing material can first support shear
motions and this agrees well with NMR data and with
specifications of gel point given by manufacturers.
Ultrasonic compression wave absorption data provide
frequency dependent patterns that change during the cure
cycle and that can be explained on the basis of the results
of the WAXS, NMR and shear wave experiments. These
changing patterns have potential for tracking cure using
low-cost ultrasonic techniques, the resultsof which can
be related to phenomena taking place on a molecular scale.
29 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.789918
Item 108
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
31A, No.9, 2000, p.991-9
CONSISTENT CURE KINETIC MODEL FOR
AS4/3502 GRAPHITE/EPOXY
Shin D D; Hahn H T
California,University
Details are given of a new technique for identifying cure
kinetic parameters for a graphite fibre-reinforced epoxy
resin by normalising the DSC data. Cure kinetics are based
on an autocatalytic model which uses dynamic and
isothermal DSC data to determine its parameters. Model
predictions were compared with experimental data.
12 refs.
USA
Accession no.789243
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 109
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
31A, No.9, 2000, p.959-68
COMPLETE SYSTEM MONITORING OF
POLYMER MATRIX COMPOSITES
Johnson F J; Cross W M; Boyles D A; Kellar J J
South Dakota,School of Mines & Technology
In situ, real time analysis of the chemical interactions
occurring within the interphase of glass fibre-reinforced
epoxy resin or polyester matrix composites was
accomplished by using fibre optic sensors. Reactions
occurring between the fibre surface, adsorbed silane
coupling agent, and polymer were monitored using FTIR.
25 refs.
USA
Accession no.789240
Item 110
Limitations of Test Methods for Plastics. STP 1369.
Conference proceedings.
Norfolk, Va., 1st Nov.1998, p.206-18
REINFORCED EPOXY RESIN CURE
ASSESSMENT IN COMPOSITE MATERIALS:
MEASURE AND EFFECTS
Zaffaroni G; Cappelletti C; Guerra S; Risetti S
Agusta SpA
Edited by: Peraro J S
(American Society for Testing & Materials)
The effects of three degrees of cure (low, standard and
post-cured) on two carbon reinforced epoxy resins are
examined. The polymerisation degree is tentatively
assessed by thermal analysis techniques, namely by
differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical
analysis (DMA). The effects on both static mechanical
and fracture toughness properties are checked. It is found
that the glass transition temperature measured by DMA
is the parameter among those studied that is most sensitive
to degree of cure. 3 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.787042
Item 111
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
77, No.10, 6th Sept.2000, p.2139-48
CURING KINETICS AND VISCOSITY CHANGE
OF A TWO-PART EPOXY RESIN DURING
MOULD FILLING IN RESIN-TRANSFER
MOULDING PROCESS
Lee C-L; Wei K-H
Taiwan,National Chiao-Tung University
The curing kinetics and the resulting viscosity change of
a two-part epoxy/amine resin during the mould-filling
process of resin transfer moulding of composites is
49
 References and Abstracts

investigated. The curing kinetics of the epoxy/amine resin THERMAL, AND DYNAMIC-MECHANICAL
is analysed in both the dynamic and the isothermal modes PROPERTIES OF AN EPOXY/ANHYDRIDE
with differential scanning calorimetry. The dynamic SYSTEM
viscosity of the resin at the same temperature as in the Anton J J S; Pradas M M; Ribelles J L G
mould filling process is measured. The curing kinetics of Jaume I,Universitat; Valencia,Polytechnical University
the resin is described by a modified Kamal kinetic model,
Details are given of the curing, thermal and dynamic
for the autocatalytic and the diffusion-control effect. An
mechanical relaxation behaviour of an epoxy-anhydride
empirical model correlated Role resin viscosity with
resin and a Kevlar fibre-reinforced epoxy resin. Curing
temperature and the degree of cure is obtained. Predictions
kinetics were also studied by DSC heating scans. The
of the rate of reaction and the resulting viscosity change
effect of fibre addition on the main dynamic mechanical
by the modified Kamal model and by the empirical model
relaxation was analysed with a simple mechanical model.
agree well with the experimental data, respectively, over
47 refs.
the temperature range 50-80 deg.C and up to the degree
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;
of cure alpha = 0.4, which are suitable for the mould- WESTERN EUROPE
filling stage in the RTM process. 25 refs.
Accession no.782975
TAIWAN
Accession no.784167
Item 114
Polymer Composites
Item 112 21, No.4, Aug.2000, p.605-18
Polymer Composites POLYESTER CURE MONITORING BY MEANS
21, No.3, June 2000, p.436-49 OF DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES
SENSOR PLACEMENT STUDY FOR ONLINE Ton-That M-T; Cole K C; Jen C-K; Franca D R
FLOW MONITORING IN LIQUID COMPOSITE Canada,National Research Council
MOULDING
The cure of a set of unsaturated polyester resins having
Kueh S R M; Advani S G; Parnas R S
different styrene contents was monitored by FTIR, DSC,
Delaware,University; US,National Institute of
rheometry, and ultrasonic measurements. The dependence
Standards & Technology
of viscosity on the degree of curing was investigated at
On-line sensing can play an important part in controlling different shear rates. 25 refs.
the quality of the final product in any manufacturing CANADA
environment, including liquid composite moulding Accession no.782722
(LCM). Having a sensor embedded within the part itself
is often the most effective means of monitoring its
condition at various stages of manufacturing and even Item 115
throughout its useful life. However, given their intrusive Polymer Composites
nature, there are practical limitations imposed upon their 21, No.4, Aug.2000, p.523-30
size, quantity and trajectory within the part. The possibility FIBRE OPTIC THERMOSET CURE
of using a single lineal sensor to monitor the resin flow MONITORING SENSOR
front during the mould filling stage of LCM, and to detect Giordano M; Nicolais L; Calabro A M; Cantoni S;
the onset of void formation and the presence of dry spots Cusano A; Breglio G; Cutolo A
within the mould, is explored. Experiments are conducted CNR; Italian Aerospace Research Centre;
to characterise the response of a fibre optic system Naples,University
previously developed for cure monitoring. Simulations Details are given of the design and development of a fibre
are performed to determine the optimal placement of just optic sensor system to measure the reflection coefficient
one such sensor in a mould to demonstrate that sufficient at the interface between the fibre optic and the resin during
information on the mould filling process could be a curing process. Correlation between the sensor output
obtained. The purpose of the simulation is to learn how and conversion is proposed. Isothermal data from the
to interpret the sensor response and, subsequently, use it sensor were compared with calorimetric analysis of an
to control the LCM process. 48 refs. epoxy resin-based system. 14 refs.
USA EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
Accession no.784121 WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.782713
Item 113
Polymer Engineering and Science Item 116
40, No.8, Aug.2000, p.1725-35 Kunststoffe Plast Europe
EFFECT OF KEVLAR FIBER 90, No.4, April 2000, p.33-5
REINFORCEMENT ON THE CURING, CROSSLINKING INSTEAD OF GLASS

50 © Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited

 References and Abstracts
TRANSITION. DETERMINATION OF DEGREE
OF CURE IN FIBRE-REINFORCED
COMPOSITE PARTS
Stark W; Doering J; Walentowski H-U
The problem of incomplete curing during the processing
of fibre-reinforced composites is addressed and methods
of determining the degree of cure are evaluated. The
applicability of DSC and DMTA to the analysis of the
degree of cure of a vehicle component made from glass
fibre-reinforced epoxy resin and a container produced
from a glass fibre-reinforced vinyl ester resin for
flammable liquids and the role of the equilibrium Tg in
complete curing are discussed.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.779482
Item 117
International Journal of Adhesion & Adhesives
20, No.3, 2000, p.189-93
EFFECTS OF SHRINKAGE ON CONDUCTIVITY
OF ISOTROPIC CONDUCTIVE ADHESIVES
Lu D; Wong C P
Georgia,Institute of Technology
Details are given of changes in properties such as cure
shrinkage of an isotropic conductive adhesive during cure
and of the correlation with establishment of conductivity.
An epoxy resin adhesive was cured and its heat flow,
storage modulus, dimension changes, and electrical
conductivity were studied using DSC, rheological
measurements, thermomechanical analysis, and the use
of an electrical multimeter. Changes in these properties
with time in the course of an isothermal cure were also
conducted. 15 refs.
USA
Accession no.777972
Item 118
Polymer Engineering and Science
40, No.5, May 2000, p.1157-64
SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL CONTROL OF THE
DEGREE OF CURE IN POLYMER COMPOSITE
STRUCTURES
Shull P J; Hurley D H; Spicer J W M; Spicer J B
Penn State University; Johns Hopkins University
Current attempts to apply spatially and temporally
localised microwave processing techniques to ensure
uniformity of material properties in polymer composite
materials are described. It is shown that, in large polymer
composite structures, high temps. caused by exothermic
resin cure can degrade the mechanical properties of the
composite. Resin cure temp. data were obtained during
microwave processing from a series of thermocouples
embedded at various lateral locations relative to the
microwave source and uniformly through the thickness
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
of the composite structure. Using this temp. information,
the potential for localised microwave-accelerated cure to
reduce the occurrence of material degradation from resin
over-temp. was evaluated. In addition, a theoretical model
was developed that helped to elucidate the influence of
the microwave parameters on the temp. profile. 9 refs.
USA
Accession no.776370
Item 119
Composite Structures
49, No.3, July 2000, p.331-8
STRAIN MONITORING IN COMPOSITE
PATCHED STRUCTURES
Findik F; Mrad N; Johnston A
Sakarya,University; Canada,National Research Council
Strain monitoring was studied in a single-sided patched
structure (as used in the aerospace industry). The thermal
residual strains were defined in graphite/epoxy resin
composites on Al-2024 T3 substrate. Five samples were
manufactured and several strain gauges were bonded on
the patch Al-substrate. Thermal and thermal residual
strains were measured after one- and two-step curing at
different temps. and the results were compared for each
step as well as with results from previous studies. 12 refs.
CANADA; TURKEY
Accession no.774352
Item 120
Composite Structures
49, No.3, July 2000, p.303-12
PROCESS INDUCED STRESS FOR WOVEN
FABRIC THICK SECTION COMPOSITE
STRUCTURES
Xiaogang Huang; Gillespie J W; Bogetti T
Delaware,University; US,Army Research Laboratory
A semi-numerical model was developed to simulate
processing-induced stress for woven fabric composite
material structures. The approach consisted of three main
parts. The first was the simulation of resin chemical kinetic
cure behaviour and micromechanics for cure-dependent
resin and glass fibre. The second was the analytical
extension of the TEXCAD woven fabric micromechanics
model to the cure-dependent textile unit cell model. The
last was the introduction of the effective unit cell
properties to finite element structure modelling. Cure-
dependent material response included thermoset resin
hardening and volumetric shrinkage during cure. The
approach was incrementally employed whereby the model
predicted the composite fabric unit cell effective modulus,
processing-induced strains and stresses (thermal
expansion and chemical shrinkage) during cure. Case
studies were presented which illustrated the effective
modulus and processing stress/strain development during
cure for a plain weave S2-glass/vinyl ester composite
laminate. An understanding of the complex relationships
51
 References and Abstracts
between cure, modulus and processing-induced stress/
strain development represented a significant step towards
optimising processing strategies for thick-section woven
fabric composite structures. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.774349
Item 121
Polymer Composites 99. Conference proceedings.
Quebec, Canada, 6th-8th Oct.1999, p.379-94
POLYESTER CURE MONITORING BY MEANS
OF DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES
Ton-That M-T; Cole K C; Jen C-K; Franca D R
National Research Council of Canada
(SPE; National Research Council of Canada)
The cure of a set of polyester resin samples having
different styrene contents is monitored by means of
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy,
differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rheometry and
ultrasonic measurements. FTIR and DSC experimental
data are used to calculate the cure kinetics using a free-
radical polymerisation model (multiple steps) and also
an empirical model that considers the curing to involve
only a single step. The dependence of viscosity on the
degree of curing is investigated at different shear rates.
Finally, correlations among the results from the different
techniques are established and discussed in terms of the
curing mechanism. 25 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.771724
Item 122
Polymer Composites 99. Conference proceedings.
Quebec, Canada, 6th-8th Oct.1999, p.305-15
MOULD RELEASE AGENT EFFECT ON THE
PROCESS INDUCED STRAIN DURING
FABRICATION OF THERMOSETTING
COMPOSITES
Hojjati M; Hoa S V; Wang H
Concordia University; National Research Council of
Canada
(SPE; National Research Council of Canada)
The effect of mould release agent and tooling materials
on process-induced strain is investigated. Three
symmetric cross-ply flat plate laminates are made using
an aluminium mould. Conventional spray type mould
release agent, Teflon film, and no release agent are applied
to separate the mould from the composite parts. Extrinsic
Fabry-Perot Interferometric (EFPI) fibre optic sensors are
embedded in the samples to monitor the strain during the
manufacturing. It is shown that the application of a good
release agent eliminates the effect of tooling on the
residual strain build-up during the cooling stage of the
cure process. On the other hand, the improper selection
of mould release agent that gives good adhesion between
composite and mould up to a certain temperature causes
52
the case of process-induced strain during the cooling down
stage of manufacturing. 8 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.771718
Item 123
Polymer Composites 99. Conference proceedings.
Quebec, Canada, 6th-8th Oct.1999, p.251-63
ULTRASONIC MONITORING OF CURING
PROCESS OF GRAPHITE/EPOXY COMPOSITES
Mrad N; Prevost C; Johnston A; Jen C-K
National Research Council of Canada
(SPE; National Research Council of Canada)
Any system for automatic process monitoring and control
must possess the ability to effectively determine at any
point in time the state of the process being controlled.
Thus, in situ sensors capable of monitoring physical and
chemical changes are an essential component of such
systems. In this work, an in situ ultrasonic monitoring
system is investigated for the curing process of graphite/
epoxy composites in a mid-sized autoclave. The non-
intrusive and non-destructive ultrasonic monitoring
system enables monitoring of part temperature variation,
development of resin rich and resin poor regions due to
non-uniform compaction, point of gelation and part cure
state. This unique system is expected to find application
in composites process development and systems for online
process monitoring and control. 13 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.771714
Item 124
Polymer Composites 99. Conference proceedings.
Quebec, Canada, 6th-8th Oct.1999, p.235-50
FIBRE OPTIC THERMOSET CURE
MONITORING SENSOR
Giordano M; Nicolais L; CalabroA M; Cusano A
Italy,Institute for Composite Materials Technology;
CIRA Italian Centre for Aerospace Research;
Napoli,Universita Federico II
(SPE; National Research Council of Canada)
Curing determines chemical and physical modifications
in a large set of properties of a reacting resin. Among
these, the optical properties are strongly correlated to the
structural features of the developing polymeric network.
In particular, monitoring the variations of the refractive
index is suitable to analyse the evolution of thermoset
resin polymerisation. A fibre optic sensor system is
designed and developed based on the optical time domain
reflectometry principle to measure the reflection
coefficient at the interface between the fibre optic and
the resin during the cure process. Correlation between
the sensor output and conversion advancement is proposed
following the Lorentz-Lorenz law. Isothermal data from
the sensor are compared with calorimetric analysis of an
epoxy-based resin. 14 refs.
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.771713
Item 125
Polymer Composites 99. Conference proceedings.
Quebec, Canada, 6th-8th Oct.1999, p.223-34
MONITORING AND HEAT TRANSFER
MODELLING OF THE CURE OF THERMOSET
COMPOSITES PROCESSED BY RESIN
TRANSFER MOULDING
Skordos A A; Partridge I K
Cranfield,University
(SPE; National Research Council of Canada)
Experimental studies demonstrate the existence of
significant thermal gradients during the cure stage of resin
transfer moulding (RTM). The presence of such thermal
gradients can affect the final degree-of-cure distribution
and cause the development of residual stresses, leading
to deterioration of the final composite component
properties. Therefore the incorporation of heat transfer
modelling in the general context of RTM modelling and
monitoring of the process is necessary. Emphasis is placed
on the application of combined monitoring and heat
transfer modelling to the process. A finite element heat
transfer model incorporating resin cure kinetics is
developed and tested. An inverse solution of the heat
diffusion model is implemented in order to extend the
local measurements given by in situ monitoring to global
information about the temperature distribution and the
degree-of-cure distribution during the cure. 22 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.771712
Item 126
Epoxy Technologies for Ambient Cure Protective
Coatings. Conference proceedings.
Brussels, 12th-14th May 1998, paper 6
CURE SHRINKAGE IN EPOXY ADHESIVES
Adams R; Hua Y U; Karachalios V F
Bristol,University
(Paint Research Association)
The build-up of shrinkage over time during curing and
on cooling of an epoxy adhesive is investigated. A new
device, designed and built inhouse, is used to measure
the shrinkage of the epoxy during cure at room and
elevated temperatures. The cure of two epoxy systems
which consists of one part adhesive ESP110 and a two-
part adhesive is successfully monitored using this device
and through the way of measurement of shrinkage change
with time. By careful monitoring of the shrinkage, it is
shown that the cure contraction at room temperature is of
the order of 3.75% by volume and 1.24% expansion,
3.45% contraction at 60 deg.C for the two-part adhesive.
It is also shown how the overall volume change caused
by expansion and shrinkage is distributed during the cure
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
process. Finally, using a plot of the variation of the shear
modulus of the epoxy with time during cure, approximate
formulae for estimating the residual stress caused by
shrinkage are given. 4 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.769439
Item 127
Polymer Engineering and Science
40, No.3, March 2000, p.656-64
NON-DESTRUCTIVE AND IN-SITU
MONITORING OF MECHANICAL PROPERTY
BUILDUP IN EPOXY ADHESIVES FOR CIVIL
APPLICATIONS BY PROPAGATION OF
ULTRASONIC WAVES
Frigione M; Maffezzoli A; Acierno D; Luprano V A M;
Montagna G
Lecce,Universita; Naples,University; PASTIS-CNRSM
The progress of cure of an epoxy adhesive during
polymerisation at ambient temperature was investigated
using ultrasonic wave propagation. Data were obtained
under isothermal conditions for the neat epoxy resin and
a concrete-epoxy resin-concrete system. The Young’s
modulus and shear modulus were calculated from
measurements of longitudinal and shear velocity. The
results obtained indicated that the method of ultrasonic
wave propagation is suitable for analysing such slow cure
reactions. 22 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.768226
Item 128
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
75, No.11, 14th March 2000, p.1345-9
GLASS FIBRE-REINFORCED COMPOSITES OF
DIGLYCIDYL ETHER OF 2,7-DIHYDROXY
NAPHTHALENE
Patel K J; Amin K G; Patel R G
Gujarat,Sardar Patel University
The curing reactions of the diglycidyl ether of 2,7-
dihydroxynaphthalene (DGEDHN) with different
aliphatic and aromatic amines were studied using DSC.
The thermal stability of the cured products was also
studied using thermogravimetric analysis and was found
to be affected by the structure of the amine used as a curing
agent. The curing of DGEDHN in the presence of a
conventional epoxy resin (diglycidyl ether of bisphenol
A, DGEBA) in the ratio 20:80 was also studied. Glass
fibre-reinforced composites of DGEDHN and DGEBA
(ratio 20:80) were prepared using diethyltriamine,
triethyltetramine, p,p’-diaminodiphenylmethane and p,p’-
diaminodiphenylsulphone as curing agents. The
mechanical properties of the composites were greatly
affected by the curing agent used. All the composites had
53
 References and Abstracts
good electrical insulation properties. Their chemical
resistance was also studied. 10 refs.
INDIA
Accession no.768153
Item 129
Brookfield, Ct., 1999, pp.480. $100.00. 28cms. 5/4/00
POLYMER COMPOSITES ’99. PROCEEDINGS
OF A CONFERENCE HELD QUEBEC, CANADA,
6TH-8TH OCT. 1999
SPE; National Research Council of Canada
This international symposium focuses on polymer
composites science and technology and includes keynote
lectures and poster sessions. Papers include inspection of
composite materials by laser ultrasonics, stamping of
continuous fibre thermoplastic composites,
thermorheology of in-situ organic composites, fibre optic
thermoset curing monitoring sensor, and chains
restrictions in filler-polymer composites.
Accession no.766769
Item 130
Adhesion 99. Conference Proceedings.
Cambridge, UK, 15th-17th Sept.1999, p.387
STRUCTURAL ADHESIVE CURE KINETICS
USING DYNAMIC MECHANICAL ANALYSIS
Kavanagh G; Tod D A
DERA
(IOM Communications Ltd.)
The use of dynamic mechanical analysis in studying the
cure kinetics of structural adhesives is discussed. A multi-
frequency approach is used to relate small-scale properties
to the rate dependence of the adhesive in lap shear tests.
Cure characteristics are reported together with the
expected changes due to ageing and batch variability. (An
abstract only is presented).
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.765329
Item 131
Adhesion 99. Conference Proceedings.
Cambridge, UK, 15th-17th Sept.1999, p.187-92
STRUCTURE/ACTIVITY CORRELATIONS IN
IMIDAZOLES FOR EPOXY CURE
Browne T J; Cawse J L
Hexcel Composite Materials
(IOM Communications Ltd.)
A number of imidazoles were examined as potential
alternatives to dicyandiamide (DCDA) in the curing of
epoxy resin adhesive formulations. The imidazole curing
agents were evaluated by DSC, gel time experiments in
DGEBA, molecular modelling and lap shear and peel tests
on bonded aluminium joints. Comparable lap shear values
but inferior peel values were observed for the trial
54
formulations in comparison with standard 120C and 175C
DCDA cured systems. 7 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.761645
Item 132
Adhesion 99. Conference Proceedings.
Cambridge, UK, 15th-17th Sept.1999, p.99-104
APPLICATION OF DIELECTRIC TECHNIQUES
TO THE CHARACTERISATION OF ADHESIVE
BONDED STRUCTURES
Pethrick R A; Affrossman S; Comrie R; Li Z C;
Armstrong G; Ivanova K; Halliday S; Hayward D;
Banks W M
Strathclyde,University
(IOM Communications Ltd.)
The use of dielectric measurements for the non-destructive
characterisation of aluminium and carbon fibre-reinforced
plastics joints bonded with structural adhesives is
discussed. Applications of dielectric methods to the
detection of water absorption and the study of ageing
processes in bonded structures are examined. 21 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.761630
Item 133
Adhesion 99. Conference Proceedings.
Cambridge, UK, 15th-17th Sept.1999, p.93-8
NON-DESTRUCTIVE EVALUATION AND
INSPECTION OF ADHESIVELY BONDED
ALUMINIUM JOINTS
Weitzenbock J R; Niese F; Hubschen G
Det Norske Veritas; Fraunhofer-Institut fuer
Zerstorungsfreie Prufverfahren
(IOM Communications Ltd.)
A number of non-destructive testing techniques were
applied to the detection of bond line defects, including
porosity, air inclusions, incomplete cure, thickness
variations and zones of weak or no adhesion, in aluminium
joints bonded with an epoxy resin adhesive. Test methods
used included the thickness resonance technique, guided
ultrasonic waves, high frequency ultrasonic pulse echo
immersion, non-linear ultrasonics and thermography. It
was shown that no single method could detect all the
defects in the specimens. The most promising methods
for practical application were thickness resonance and
guided ultrasonic waves. 10 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
NORWAY; SCANDINAVIA; UK; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.761629
Item 134
Composite Structures
48, Nos.1-3, Jan.-Mar.2000, p.99-106
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
OPTIMAL TEMPERATURE PROFILES FOR
MINIMUM RESIDUAL STRESS IN THE CURE
PROCESS OF POLYMER COMPOSITES
Gopal A K; Adali S; Verijenko V E
CSIR,Miningtek; Natal,University
Cure cycle optimisation was based on the effect of the
temp. gradient on the development of residual stresses.
The numerical simulation results identified the gradient
of the temp. profile as an effective process parameter
which had been neglected in the previous experimental
studies. The parametric study in fact provided valuable
insight into the understanding of the stress responses to
variations in temp. profile. The results of this study were
used to develop an optimised cure cycle with reduced
residual stresses which could be of the order of 30% as
compared with the recommended cure cycles. The optimal
temp. profile also improved the cycle time. 18 refs. (2nd
International Conference on Composite Science &
Technology, Durban, South Africa, June 1998)
SOUTH AFRICA
Accession no.761306
Item 135
Polymer International
48, No.12, Dec.1999, p.1229-36
CURE BEHAVIOUR OF EPOXY RESIN
MATRICES FOR CARBON FIBRE COMPOSITES
Dispenza C; Carter J T; McGrail P T; Spadaro G
Palermo,University; ICI Technology
The cure behaviour of two resin formulations (with high
and low curing agent content respectively) of an epoxy
resin system, used as matrix for carbon fibre composites,
is studied through calorimetric analysis. The kinetics of
this specific epoxy system are investigated in order to be
able to choose a set of processing parameters giving good
composite material properties. The shape of the
conversion curves gives evidence of the differences in
the cure kinetics of the two systems. Furthermore, the
values of the activation energies are determined both for
formulation in the conversion range where vitrification
occurs, following a phenomenological approach. These
values give an indication of the differences in the curing
mechanisms, when varying the content of curing agent.
In particular, for both systems the same reaction represents
the onset of the cure process, i.e. the autocatalytic epoxy
ring opening through addition reaction to the primary
amine. This reaction dominates the entire cure process of
the epoxy formulation at high curing agent content.
Conversely, in the formulations with a low curing agent
content, after depletion of the primary amines, different
reactions may take place (with secondary amines and
hydroxyl groups) depending on the cure temperature and
the resin viscosity. 19 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.760255
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 136
Journal of Composite Materials
33, No.20, 1999, p.1860-1
FIBRE OPTIC AND ULTRASONIC
MEASUREMENTS FOR IN SITU CURE
MONITORING OF GRAPHITE/EPOXY
COMPOSITES
Chen Y-Y; Hoa S V; Jen C-K; Wang H
Concordia University; Canada,National Research
Council
To produce high-quality composites with high density and
low void content, the knowledge of cure process is very
important, and the sensors capable of monitoring the cure
process are therefore desirable. Since the term ‘fully
processed’ should be a reflection of the ultimate material
application, the objectives are to monitor how material
properties have been developed during the cure and justify
when ‘end-of-cure’ is achieved by measuring chemical
and mechanical properties of the curing composites. As a
reference, differential scanning calorimetry is used to
evaluate the degree of cure while fibre-optic sensors are
used to measure the evolution of process-induced strains,
and ultrasonic sensors are used to monitor the
development of viscoelastic properties of the curing
composites. An ultrasonic cure monitoring system is
developed, using ultrasonic sensors together with clad
buffer rods. The major merits of this system can be
summarised as workable inside an autoclave at high
temperature and internal pressure; high signal to spurious
ultrasonic noise ratio, and high signal strength; suitable
for longitudinal or shear wave measurement in reflection/
transmission mode. 34 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.760246
Item 137
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
18, No.16, 1999, p.1465-78
VERIFICATION OF A SIMULATION MODEL
FOR RESIN FILM INFUSION OF COMPLEX
SHAPED COMPOSITE STRUCTURES
Caba A C; Tatazzi D; Batra R; Loos A C
Virginia,Polytechnic Institute & State University
An attempt is made to develop and verify a three-
dimensional model to simulate the resin film infusion (RFI)
process. For a specified pressure and temperature cure cycle
the code can predict resin pressure, viscosity and degree
of cure, flow front progression and temperature distribution
in the preform and tooling components. The model is
divided into sub-models which describe resin flow, heat
transfer and resin kinetics. A finite element/control volume
approach is used to model the flow of the resin through the
preform. Boundary conditions include specified pressure,
specified flow rate and vents. A finite element formulation
of the transient heat conduction equation is used to model
the heat transfer. Thermal boundary conditions include
55
 References and Abstracts
either specified temperature or convection. The code is
designed to be modular so the flow problem can be solved
alone or coupled with the thermal problem. The problems
are solved sequentially in a quasi-steady state fashion. Non-
isothermal experiments with a reactive resin are conducted
to verify the thermal module and the resin model. A two
blade stiffened panel, fitted with sensors, is manufactured
using the RFI process. Thermocouples are used to measure
the temperatures, and FDEM (dielectric) sensors and
pressure transducers are used to monitor the flow front
progression. Model predictions and experimental results
are found to be in close agreement for the temperatures
and flow progression. The predicted and measured
infiltration times match to within 12%, and the temperatures
to within 5%. 7 refs.
USA
Accession no.760235
Item 138
International Composites Expo 99. Conference
proceedings.
Cincinnati, Oh., 10th-12th May 1999, session 22-D
STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY MONITORING
USING SMART MAGNETOSTRICTIVE
COMPOSITES
Trovillion J; Kamphaus J; Quattrone R; Berman J
US,Army Construction Engineering Research Lab.
(SPI,Composites Institute)
15 wt% of a commercial magnetostrictive alloy powder
was added to polyester resin, and glass fibre-reinforced
polyester resin, at the mixing stage. Following curing,
the composites were loaded in uniaxial tension. The
magnetic flux density, measured using Hall effect devices,
increased with increasing axial load, and exposing the
samples to a magnetic field prior to testing increased the
response by aligning the magnetic dipoles. The composite
could also be magnetically annealed under load, re-setting
the magnetic characteristics of the structure. It was
concluded that magnetostrictive composites were suited
as self-monitoring structural materials, as only modest
magnet generation and detection equipment was needed.
9 refs.
USA
Accession no.759527
Item 139
International Polymer Science and Technology
26, No.3, 1999, p.34-7
EFFECT OF GLASS AND CARBON FABRIC
FILLERS ON THE CURING OF AN EPOXY-
PHENOL BINDER
Smirnov Yu N; Tarasov V P; Dzhamaeva N M
Russian Academy of Sciences; Dagestan,State
Pedagogical University
Prepregs of carbon and glass fibre were impregnated with
an epoxy-novolac binder and cured under pressure at
56
different temperatures. The curing kinetics were studied
using isothermal calorimetry. The initial curing rates with
the carbon prepregs above 140C could not obey the
Arrhenius law, whereas the rates with the glass fibre
material did. This phenomenon was investigated using
pulsed NMR. It was concluded that during impregnation
of the carbon fibres, selective sorption of the components
of the binder by the porous fibres occurred, leading to
component separation, which retarded the curing rate and
the degree of curing. 17 refs. Translation of Plasticheskie
Massy, No.7, 1998, p.14.
RUSSIA
Accession no.756156
Item 140
Journal of Materials Science. Materials in Medicine
10, No.4, April 1999, p.205-13
FORMATION OF HYDROXYAPATITE-
CALCIUM POLYACRYLATE COMPOSITES
Watson K E; Tenhuisen K S; Brown P W
Penn State University
Factor influencing the workability (working time) and
properties of dental cements prepared from tetracalcium
phosphate and polyacrylic acid were investigated.
Prehydrating the tetracalcium phosphate to form surface
layers of hydroxyapatite on the tetracalcium phosphate
particles improved workability. The effects of the
proportions of tetracalcium phosphate and polyacrylic
acid, with and without hydroxyapatite as filler were
examined. Extents of reactions were studied by X-ray
diffraction analysis. Microstructures were examined by
SEM. Neutralisation was studied by FTIR. Pore structures
were determined by mercury intrusion porosimetry.
Compressive strengths were determined. Strength and
porosity depended on liquid/solid ratio. Hydroxyapatite
filler reduced compressive strength. 24 refs.
USA
Accession no.754789
Item 141
Adhasion Kleben & Dichten
41, Nos.7-8, 1997, p.31/5
German
HIDDEN GLASS TRANSITIONS MADE VISIBLE
Haessler R
Dresden,Institut fuer Polymerforschung
Modulated dynamic differential calorimetry (MDDC)
makes it possible to record weak transitions and to
separate complex transitions through simultaneous
measurement of heat capacity and heat flow in only one
experiment. Here the advantages of this modified method
of measurement are examined within the context of
manufacturing, processing and testing adhesives.
Temperature reactions are analysed during MDDC
measurements as well as glass transition temperatures
alongside enthalpic relaxation, melting and aftercuring.
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
MDDC graphs are produced for epoxide resin adhesives,
which are partially cured, hardened at room temperature
during thermal crosslinking and hot cured during thermal
aftercuring. 6 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.754462
Item 142
Polymer Composites
20, No.4, Aug.1999, p.581-93
USE OF A SIMPLE, INEXPENSIVE PRESSURE
SENSOR TO MEASURE HYDROSTATIC RESIN
PRESSURE DURING PROCESSING OF
COMPOSITE LAMINATES
Lynch K; Hubert P; Poursartip A
British Columbia,University
Inexpensive, reusable pressure sensors were developed to
monitor the hydrostatic resin pressure inside a curing
composite laminate. The tube sensor assemblies were non-
hysteretic, absolute devices that produced reproducible,
linear results that were stable with time and temp. If a sensor
tube became sealed, it would no longer measure pressure,
but would be primarily sensitive to temp. changes. The
sensors were tested in two flat laminates under bleed
conditions. The resin pressure within a laminate increased
with the applied pressure until flow began, at which time
the resin pressure decreased progressively through the
laminate thickness, from the top surface to the toolplate. A
resin pressure gradient existed across the entire laminate
thickness until full compaction occurred or the applied
pressure was released. The flow module implemented in a
finite element processing model, with appropriate material
parameters and boundary conditions, could produce a
reasonable estimate of the resin pressure throughout a
laminate during cure and of the final laminate fibre volume
fraction. 18 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.750343
Item 143
Reinforced Plastics
43, No.10, Oct.1999, p.23
SMC CURE MONITOR
The ICAM-1500 Cure Analyzer is designed to monitor
the curing of thermosetting resin systems such as SMC,
BMC and UV light curing materials, it is briefly reported.
The system measures changes in dielectric properties to
monitor changes in viscosity, cure rate and cure time of
thermosetting resin systems.
HOLOMETRIX
USA
Accession no.749254
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 144
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
18, No.11, 1999, p.979-84
IN SITU MONITORING OF THE CURE
PROCESS OF FIBERGLASS/POLYESTER
COMPOSITES
Cameron J; Yongping Zhang
Kingston,Queen’s University; Bell Helicopter Textron
Canada
A theoretical relationship between the extent of cure and
the temp. obtained in thermoset polyester resins was
derived. The curing behaviour of resins in the presence
of reinforcing phases was also investigated using a
computer-assisted thermal analysis system. The
relationship found between the cure time and temp.
readings on the specimens could be used to assess the
extent of cure. 5 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.749040
Item 145
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
73, No.10, 6th Sept.1999, p.1969-77
CURE MONITORING OF EPOXY MATRICES
FOR COMPOSITES BY ULTRASONIC WAVE
PROPAGATION
Maffezzoli A; Quarta E; Luprano V A M; Montagna G;
Nicolais L
Lecce,Universita; PASTIS-CNRSM; Napoli,Universita
Federico II
A complete characterisation of the cure of a model epoxy
matrix for composites was carried out by comparing
isothermal and non-isothermal data. The propagation of
ultrasonic waves acting as a dynamic mechanical
deformation at high frequencies was used to calculate
complex longitudinal bulk moduli during the curing
process. The evolution of attenuation and velocity during
the reaction was related to the strong physical changes
occurring during the curing process. A comparison
between the degree of reaction measured by DSC and the
ultrasonic results was presented. The ultrasonic velocity
(or the bulk longitudinal modulus) was regarded as the
most interesting parameter for cure monitoring because
it followed the development of the mechanical properties
of the epoxy resin during cure. The results indicated that
the measurement of the longitudinal velocity could be
used for on-line measurement of post-gel properties. A
correlation was proposed between the gel time and the
end of cure and ultrasonic data. 40 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.747639
57
 References and Abstracts
Item 146
Revue Generale des Caoutchoucs et Plastiques
No.778, June/July 1999, p.49-50
French
MODELLING THE VISCOSITY OF
THERMOSETS
Bechtel S
Aerospatiale SA
Results are presented of experimental and computer
simulation studies of the viscosity of a thermosetting resin
matrix for carbon fibre-reinforced composites as a
function of temperature during cure. 4 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.745810
Item 147
Composites Science & Technology
59, No.7, May/June 1999, p.1003-13
NUMERICAL APPROACH TO THE
MODELLING OF POLYMER CURING IN
FIBRE-REINFORCED COMPOSITES
Joshi S C; Liu X L; Lam Y C
Monash,University; Cooperative Research Centre for
Advanced Composite Structures;
Nanyang,Technological University
A procedure is presented for using a general-purpose finite
element package for cure modelling which was used to
carry out heat transfer analysis and two user programs
were developed to simulate resin-cure kinetics using nodal
control volumes based on the finite element mesh. The
procedure was demonstrated by modelling the cure of a
thick graphite/epoxy prepreg laminate. Theoretical
background and numerical implementation of the
procedure were described, and stability with respect to
the finite element mesh density and length of the time
step employed was investigated. Application of the
procedure was demonstrated by modelling the cure of a
thick prepreg laminate, a honeycomb sandwich panel and
an I-beam. 15 refs.
AUSTRALIA; SINGAPORE
Accession no.740342
Item 148
Composites-French/English
Nos.33-34, May/Aug.1999, p.70
English; French
MONITORING OF CRITICALLY LOADED
STRUCTURES
Features are briefly described of a smart fibre system for
use in monitoring strain in critically loaded composite
structures. The system is built on optical fibre technology,
which allows the sensors to be directly incorporated into
a length of optical fibres and integrated into any composite
structure in a non-intrusive manner. Applications are
indicated for the system.
58
SMART FIBRES LTD.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.738344
Item 149
Polymer Engineering and Science
39, No.4, April 1999, p.778-88
THERMAL ANALYSIS CHARACTERIZATION
OF FIBERGLASS EPOXY PREPREG USED TO
JOIN COMPOSITE PIPES
Mensah P F; Stubblefield M A; Su-Seng Pang; Wingard D
Louisiana,Southern University; Louisiana,State
University; NASA
A glass fibre/epoxy resin prepreg fabric used as the
bonding material to join composite-to-composite pipes
by curing was characterised thermally. The prepreg
materials and composite pipes were found to have temp.-
dependent thermal properties. The resulting boundary
value equations were thus non-linear and analytical
solutions could not easily be obtained. Finite difference
modelling and numerical computational techniques were
used to solve the one-dimensional heat conduction with
chemical kinetics in the thermosetting material. Temp.
distributions and degree of cure within the composite pipe
joint were predicted. DSC in both isothermal and dynamic
modes was used to characterise the curing kinetic
properties of the prepreg. The result of this
characterisation was necessary for optimising the curing
process to produce a superior heat-activated coupled joint.
In addition, to assess the effects of induced thermal stress
in the joint, the temp. profile was required. The
methodology used in this analysis compared favourably
with data from experimentation. 11 refs.
USA
Accession no.734650
Item 150
Antec 99.Volume 1.Conference proceedings.
New York City, 2nd-6th May, 1999, p.925-9.012
KINETICS OF EPOXY CURING IN
COMPOSITES CONTAINING GLASS FIBERS
OR GLASS FIBERS COMINGLED WITH
POLYPROPYLENE
Punchaipetch P; Reed J; Brostow W; D’Souza N A
North Texas,University
(SPE)
The curing kinetics of epoxy resin reinforced with silane-
treated glass fibre or with glass fibre comingled with
polypropylene was investigated using differential
scanning calorimetry. A higher catalysed rate constant was
observed for the glass fibre-reinforced resin compared
with the neat resin. This was attributed to the presence of
the silane coupling agent. The presence of polypropylene
resulted in a higher activation energy in comparison with
neat resin and glass fibre reinforced resin. This was
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
attributed to the fact that polypropylene is inert to the
epoxide curing reaction. 14 refs.
USA
Accession no.734070
Item 151
Iranian Journal of Polymer Science & Technology
11, No.3, 1998, p.43-52
Persian
CURE KINETICS, HEAT OF REACTION AND
VISCOSITY OF ARALDITE LY-556 RESIN
Seifi R; Hojjati M
Tarbiat Modarres University
A cure kinetic expression for Araldite epoxy resin
adhesive was determined by DSC. Using calorimetric
data, the heat of reaction, the rate of cure and the degree
of cure were determined. Viscosity was measured as a
function of time at constant temperature by using a
dynamic mechanical analyser. 18 refs.
IRAN
Accession no.726729
Item 152
Plast 21
No.74, Sept.1998, p.60-3
Spanish
CURING SYSTEMS FOR RESIN TRANSFER
MOULDING AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AND
HIGH TEMPERATURE
Gil E
Akzo Nobel Chemicals SA
Results are presented of studies of the cure of glass fibre-
reinforced unsaturated polyester resins in resin transfer
moulding processes carried out at room temperature and
high temperature using different peroxide based curing
systems.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.726274
Item 153
Reinforced Plastics
43, No.1, Jan.1999, p.24
COLOURFUL SENSOR INDICATES PRESSURE
Sensor Products has developed a sensor which changes
colour to indicate the pressure distribution between two
surfaces during the production of sandwich structures.
The Pressurex sensor comes in the form of a large thin
film which is placed between impacting or mating
surfaces. The colour of the film is directly related to the
amount of pressure applied to it. Pressurex can be used
in both R&D and quality control applications.
SENSOR PRODUCTS INC.
USA
Accession no.725941
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 154
ACS Polymeric Materials Science & Engineering.
Volume 74. Conference proceedings.
New Orleans, La., Spring 1996, p.90-1. 012
CURE ANALYSIS OF THERMOSET THIN FILMS
BY FT-IR EMISSION
George G A; Cash G A; Liu H; Vassallo A
Queensland,University of Technology; CSIRO
(ACS,Div.of Polymeric Materials Science & Engng.)
The ultimate properties of a thermoset depend on the cure
chemistry of the network, e.g. the extent of conversion at
the cure temperature (Tg), modulus, free volume and the
environmental durability, particularly moisture uptake of
the resin. The possibility of real-time process control
during fabrication of composite articles has resulted in
the investigation of a wide range of techniques monitoring
either viscosity. These field methods require calibration
against suitable laboratory methods which produce
quantitative kinetic information. While rheometric
analysis and DSC have been widely used, it has been
demonstrated that FTIR spectroscopy, particularly in the
near-IR, can provide quantitative information to yield a
more realistic analytical model for the cure reaction of
glycidyl-amine based epoxy resins. As the cure reactions
of many high performance thermosets occur at
temperatures of 150 deg. and above the possibility of using
spectral analysis of the radiation emitted during the
crosslinking reaction of an epoxy resin by a diamine to
determine the change in concentration of the reacting
species has been investigated. This kinetic study is
extended to include the use of the technique as a non-
destructive monitor of prepreg ageing by using IR
emission to determine the initial composition and to
follow the cure kinetics, as a function of storage time;
and also to investigate the acceleration of the
cyclotrimerisation of a commercial dicyanate ester by a
photo-active organometallic compound. 11 refs.
AUSTRALIA
Accession no.725029
Item 155
ACS Polymeric Materials Science & Engineering.
Volume 74. Conference proceedings.
New Orleans, La., Spring 1996, p.28-9. 012
IN SITU FDEMS SENSING AND MODELLING
OF EPOXY INFILTRATION, VISCOSITY AND
DEGREE OF CURE DURING RESIN TRANSFER
MOULDING OF A TEXTILE PREFORM
Kranbuehl D; Hood D; Kriss A; Barksdale R; Loos A C;
MacRae J D; Hasko G
Williamsburg,College of William & Mary;
Virginia,Polytechnic Institute & State University;
Lockheed Engineering & Sciences Co.
(ACS,Div.of Polymeric Materials Science & Engng.)
Frequency dependent electromagnetic sensing (FDEMS)
has been developed for in situ monitoring of resin position
viscosity and degree of cure in situ in the mould during
59
 References and Abstracts

the resin transfer moulding (RTM) infiltration and cure Details are given of a method for monitoring the real-
process. A science based multi-dimensional model of time curing dynamics of composite monomers, exploiting
RTM is developed which can successfully predict the site specific information provided by high resolution
infiltration behaviour, as well as viscosity and degree of NMR. Data using polyvinylpyrrolidone,
cure as the resin flows in and cures in a dry textile preform. polyhydroxyethyl methacrylate and
Mould filling experiments are conducted at NASA polybutylhydroxycyclohexyl methacrylate are compared
Langley with a reactive epoxy resin and carbon fabric with results from a computer simulation based on a
preforms. Good agreement between model predicted and multicomponent kinetic model. 7 refs.
sensor measured infiltration patterns, viscosity and degree EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; IRELAND;
of cure throughout the infiltration and cure process is WESTERN EUROPE
observed. Use of the sensor model system for closed-loop Accession no.716161
automated intelligent control is also discussed. 5 refs.
USA
Item 158
Accession no.724998 Materiaux & Techniques
Dec.Special, 1998, p.29-32
Item 156 MONITORING THE CYCLE OF LIFE OF
ACS Polymeric Materials Science & Engineering, POLYMER BASED COMPOSITE BY AN
Spring Meeting 1998. Volume 78. Conference EMBEDDED PIEZOELECTRIC ELEMENT
proceedings. Jayet Y; Baboux J C
Dallas, Tx., Spring 1998, p.232. 012 INSA
EVALUATION OF THE CURING PROCESS IN A
An original method was developed to monitor the
REINFORCED EPOXY BY DYNAMIC DSC AND
viscoelastic properties of a composite through
DMA
measurements of the piezoelectric impedance of a
Bilyeu B W; Brostow W K; Menard K P
piezoelectric ceramic inserted in the composite structure.
North Texas,University
This method is a good indicator to follow the different
(ACS,Div.of Polymeric Materials Science & Engng.)
curing phases of the polymerisation process; it is able to
Optimisation of industrial processing of fibre reinforced detect the modifications of the mechanical properties
epoxy prepregs requires knowledge of the relationship induced by water immersion of the structure. The results
between time and temperature, and how the two affect were validated by other classical ultrasonic measurements
the curing reaction. This is usually presented by means and by rheological tests. 12 refs.
of a time-temperature-transformation (TTT) diagram. EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
Construction of a TTT diagram requires determination WESTERN EUROPE
of the rate of chemical conversion as a function of time Accession no.715968
and temperature, including vitrification, where the rate
changes from kinetic to diffusion controlled. Also, for
Item 159
industrial processing the gel point curve is very important,
Plastiques Modernes et Elastomeres
since viscosity is very important in both preprocessing
50, No.3, April 1998, p.22-5
and processing, especially concerning workability and
French
adhesion between parts. Chemical conversion (exothermic
SIMULATION OF MOULD FILLING IN RTM
heat or Tg shift), as well as vitrification is being studied
El Hadj M; Burg S
by dynamic DSC (DDSC). Gelation, which cannot be
Rheo Technology Consulting
detected by calorimetry, is studied by the tangent Delta
signal in DMA in parallel plate mode. This abstract The application of the C-MOLD Reactive Molding
includes all the information contained in the original software to the simulation of mould filling in the resin
article. transfer moulding of composites is described.
USA EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.718749
Accession no.715835
Item 157
Macromolecular Rapid Communications Item 160
20, No.2, Feb. 1999, p.95-7 Journal of Materials Science.Materials in Medicine
CURING OF MONOMER COMPOSITES. II. USE 9, No.12, Dec.1998, p.835-8
OF NMR TO MONITOR REAL TIME CURING COMPARISON BETWEEN THE
DYNAMICS POLYMERISATION BEHAVIOUR OF A NEW
Martin S J; McBrierty V J; Dowling J; Douglass D C BONE CEMENT AND A COMMERCIAL ONE:
Dublin,Trinity College; Bausch & Lomb Inc. MODELLING AND IN-VITRO ANALYSIS

60 © Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited

 References and Abstracts
Borzacchiello A; Ambrosio L; Nicolais L; Harper E J;
Tanner K E; Bonfield W
Naples,University; Queen Mary & Westfield College
Polymerisation behaviour of a new bone cement based
on poly(ethylmethacrylate), hydroxyapatite powder and
n-butylmethacrylate monomer and a commercial cement
was studied. Polymerisation kinetics were analysed by
DSC; DSC data were used to evaluate a phenomenological
model describing the cure kinetics of this new bone
cement. The kinetic model coupled with the energy
balance was then used to obtain temperature and degree
of conversion profiles in the bone-cement-prosthesis
system, under non-isothermal conditions, as a function
of initial temperature and thickness of the cement.
Material properties, boundary and initial conditions and
the kinetic behaviour were the input data for the
numerically solved heat transfer model. The modelling
results were compared with in-vitro results. 11 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.711129
Item 161
High Performance Polymers
10, No.4, Dec.1998, p.331-40
DMTA STUDIES OF THE EFFECT OF STORAGE
TIME ON THE CURING PROCESS OF SHEET
MOULDING COMPOUND(SMC)
Hamdan S; Hashim D M A; Fong S W
Malaysia,University
DMTA was used to study the effect of storage time on
the curing process of SMC (unsaturated polyester/glass
fibre). Emphasis was placed on following the curing by
the study of storage modulus and loss tangent with storage
time. Changes in the storage time showed an increase in
the storage modulus during a room-temp. cure. The loss
tangent damping peak occurred as the system was driven
into the glassy state by the crosslinking reaction. The SMC
displayed a room temp. storage modulus of 8.5 Pa which
increased to about 9 Pa in the subsequent scan in the
DMTA. 5 refs.
MALAYSIA
Accession no.711010
Item 162
Designed for Life: Composites 94. Publication
No.293/8. Conference proceedings.
Birmingham, 22nd-23rd Nov.1994, p.7-16. 627
ULTRASONIC CURE MEASUREMENTS
DURING THE PROCESSING OF AN
UNSATURATED POLYESTER DOUGH
MOULDING COMPOUND
Gibbs P A J
UK,National Physical Laboratory
(BPF)
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
The curing of an unsaturated polyester DMC is followed
during a commercial compression moulding operation
using a novel ultrasonic measurement technique.
Measurements are carried out using an instrumented three-
component compression moulding tool enabling the
production of 192 mm diameter DMC discs of varying
thickness. The measurement technique uses standard 2.25
MHz wide bandwidth NDT ultrasonic flaw detection
probes combined with a narrow band pass filter. The filter
is used to remove errors due to preferential absorption of
the high frequency components of the ultrasonic pulse
during cure. Changes in the velocity and attenuation of
the transmitted ultrasonic pulse are monitored throughout
cure using a custom-made computer controlled ultrasonic
analyser. The effect of temperature and part thickness on
the rate of cure during moulding is investigated. The
potential of ultrasonic cure measurements for use as a
process control aid is also assessed. It is concluded that
ultrasonic measurements are ideal for following the cure
during processing. Further developed this ultrasonic
measurement technique could be used as a feedback
control for thermoset processing equipment. 4 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.709062
Item 163
Structural Adhesives in Engineering V. Conference
proceedings.
Bristol, 1st-3rd April 1998, p.237-42. 6A1
AN IMPROVED DILATOMETER FOR THE
MEASUREMENT OF ADHESIVE SHRINKAGE
Yu H; Adams R D
Bristol,University
(Institute of Materials)
The volume cure shrinkage of three epoxy resins, used as
adhesives, is investigated using two different
measurements. An in-house designed and built dilatometer
is used for measuring adhesives shrinkage with time at
different cure temperatures. By careful monitoring of the
shrinkage, the volume change of three adhesives,
including thermal expansion, polymerisation shrinkage,
and cooling contraction, is measured automatically and
continuously by this new device during the curing and
cooling processes. The shrinkage of two-part adhesive
measured by new device is compared with the shrinkage
found from the linear method and density measurement.
It is also shown how the overall volume change caused
by expansion and shrinkage is distributed during the cure
process. The effect of temperature on shrinkage is
investigated. Varying the cure temperature produces
changes of cure behaviour, which result in different
shrinkage. The results obtained may be used to calculate
the complete stress state of adhesive in the joints. 12 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.705809
61
 References and Abstracts
Item 164
International Journal of Adhesion & Adhesives
18, No.5, 1998, p.319-31
LOW RESOLUTION PULSED NMR AND
ULTRASOUND STUDY TO MONITOR THE
CURE OF AN EPOXY RESIN ADHESIVE
Cocker R P; Chadwick D L; Dare D J; Challis R E
Keele,University; Manchester,Metropolitan University
The cure of an epichlorohydrin-bisphenol A resin and
curing agent containing a primary diamine and an amido-
polyamine was studied using two complementary
techniques, low resolution pulsed NMR spectroscopy and
measurement of pulsed broad bandwidth ultrasound
propagation velocity and absorption changes. The two
techniques independently gave a similar picture of the
cure process, predicting cure events at the same times.
The results obtained indicated that the cure followed
distinct phases, i.e. an initial liquid stage where short
polymer chains were formed, followed by a second stage
where longer molecules developed, a third stage where
crosslinking between chains occurred and the adhesive
began to solidify, and a final stage when solidification
was completed. 19 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.704884
Item 165
International Composites Expo 98. Conference
proceedings.
Nashville,Tn., 19th-21st Jan.1998, Session 2-A. 627
A NEW INSTRUMENT FOR MONITORING THE
RESIN FLOW FRONT AND CURE IN RTM AND
OTHER INFUSION PROCESSES
Shepard D D
Micromet Instruments Inc.
(SPI,Composites Institute)
Monitoring of resin flow during the part filling of resin
infusion processes is critical because flow is responsible
for the final mechanical properties of the part. Formation
of dry spots due to poor configuration or operation of the
process is a common problem. A new commercially
available resin flow front analysis system is being
introduced based on technology developed by the US
Army Research Laboratory. The system is used for the
in-process monitoring of resin flow and cure in resin
transfer moulding (RTM), SCRIMP, vacuum assisted
RTM and other resin infusion processes. The system
consists of a sensor grid, an electronics package designed
to rapidly interrogate the grid, and a Windows-based
software program to control, record and display the sensor
data. The system measures the electrical properties at
intersecting nodes of conductive wires or fibres that are
manually laid out in the part in separate, electrically
isolated planes to form a grid pattern. The wires or fibres
are ordinary materials so that the sensor cost is minimal.
Furthermore, if aramid or graphite fibres are used, the
62
integrity of the structure should not be affected. When
the resin reaches each node, the electrical properties of
that node change are recorded by the system. This
provides a map of the part filling process and subsequent
cure. Based on this information, part design and process
development time can be greatly reduced. 3 refs.
USA
Accession no.702086
Item 166
Broader Meaning to Thermosets. Conference
proceedings.
Rosemont,Il., 4th-6th March 1998, p.179-82. 012
PROCESS MONITORING AND CONTROL FOR
HIGH SPEED COMPOSITES MANUFACTURING
Parnas R S
US,National Inst.of Standards & Technology
(SPE,Chicago Section; SPE,Thermoset Div.;
SPE,Composites Div.)
Composite manufacturing faces a number of quality
control issues. Process development and quality control
are typically accomplished through off-line, destructive
mechanical testing of finished parts. For high volume
manufacturing processes involving fast cycle times, the
delay in getting feedback from off-line testing and the
inability to test every part can result in large part-to-part
variability and a high scrap rate. Process disturbances arise
from two principle sources, incoming material
disturbances and in-process disturbances. Disturbances
to the incoming material include resin degradation,
moisture content, catalyst variation, reinforcement fibre
misalignment, and preform size or shape variation.
Although these disturbances can severely affect both the
cure kinetics and flow behaviour during processing, they
can be identified by careful inspection. However, such
inspection, especially of preforms, can result in rejection
rates over 50%. In-process disturbances arise from sources
such as temperature and humidity fluctuations, mixing
of multiple component systems, especially small amounts
of catalysts, and equipment ageing. Some of these are
predictable and some are random. Emphasis is placed on
improving on-line process monitoring to provide high-
level control structures the critical information required
for control decisions. Evanescent wave optical fibre
fluorescence and infrared systems have previously been
introduced to monitor cure during liquid composite
moulding. Example results are presented, together with a
brief discussion of control algorithms designed to use the
sensor signals.
USA
Accession no.701790
Item 167
Polymer Engineering and Science
38, No.9, Sept.1998, p.1566-71
IN-PROCESS CONTROL OF EPOXY
COMPOSITE BY MICRODIELECTROMETRIC
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts

ANALYSIS. II. ON-LINE REAL-TIME achieve cure control. A general high-level controller is
DIELECTRIC MEASUREMENTS DURING A under development to optimise the process under a wide
COMPRESSION MOLDING PROCESS range of operating conditions. 10 refs.
Stephan F; Duteurtre X; Fit A USA
Renault; Auxiribat Accession no.698316
The curing of a glass fibre-epoxy composite based on the
diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A with dicyandiamide as
Item 169
the curing agent and imidazole as the catalyst was
Enercomp 95 International Conference on Composite
analysed using microdielectrometry. The curing behaviour
Materials and Energy. Conference proceedings.
of thick epoxy resin composite parts was examined in a
Montreal, Canada, 8th-10th May 1995, p.11-8. 627-
production environment for the compression moulding
63Ene
process. Particular attention was paid to the method used
MONITORING THE HYDROLYTIC
to collect one-line real-time conversion measurements
DEGRADATION OF POLYESTER-BASED
during an epoxy/glass fibre composite cure. For this
COMPOSITES BY A PIEZOELECTRIC
purpose, temp. and ionic conductivity profiles during
METHOD
industrial moulding of a thick epoxy resin part were
Saint-Pierre N; Perrissin I; Jayet Y; Tatibouet J
recorded. Corresponding conversion profiles were
Lyon,Institut National des Sciences Appliquees
deduced from a previous empirically-established
(Canadian Association for Composite Structures &
correlation and discussed in terms of cure gradients as a
Materials)
function of the through-the-thickness location and of the
cure cycle time. 13 refs. Theoretical considerations show that the electric
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE; impedance of a piezoelectric element depends on the
WESTERN EUROPE physical and geometrical properties of the element and
Accession no.699103 also on the viscoelastic characteristics of the different
media surrounding it. According to a dynamic model, an
original technique is developed by inserting a
Item 168
piezoelectric ceramic in the composite structure when
Enercomp 95 International Conference on Composite
processed. The electric signal, after signal processing and
Materials and Energy. Conference proceedings.
numerical treatments, gives access to the viscoelastic
Montreal, Canada, 8th-10th May 1995, p.334-41. 627-
properties of the external medium. This method is an
63Ene
excellent indicator to display the polymerisation kinetics
THE USE OF EVANESCENT WAVE
of the resin as well as the post-curing phase of the
FLUORESCENCE SPECTROSCOPY IN
composite structure process. Moreover, a further
PROCESS CONTROL OF THE LIQUID
application of this non-destructive method is the
MOULDING PROCESS
monitoring of the hydrolytic degradation of the composite
Parnas R S; Woerdeman D L
structure. The evolution of the electric impedance of the
US,National Institute of Standards & Technology;
piezoelectric sensor is presented as a function of water
Johns Hopkins University
exposition time for a polyester-based composite. 4 refs.
(Canadian Association for Composite Structures &
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
Materials) WESTERN EUROPE
Fluorescence has been demonstrated to be an accurate Accession no.698277
measurement of resin cure and has been used in liquid
moulding as distal-end fibre optic sensors. Evanescent
Item 170
wave fibre optic sensors offer the additional advantage
Materials Challenge - Diversification and the Future.
of sensing the cure deep within the preform and very close
Volume 40: Book 1. Symposium proceedings.
to the fibre surface. An economical optical fibre sensor is
Anaheim, Ca., 8th-11th May 1995, p.696-710. 627
developed with a refractive index in excess of 1.6,
CONSIDERATIONS IN THE DIELECTRIC
permitting evanescent wave monitoring of most typical
ANALYSIS OF COMPOSITES
liquid moulding resins. A hierarchical control strategy is
Buczek M B; Lee C W
developed for liquid moulding processes that use the cure
GE Aircraft Engines; Dayton,University
measurement provided by the evanescent wave
(SAMPE)
fluorescence sensor. Single input/single output control
loops are implemented at the base level to regulate the Dielectric analysis has become a popular method for
mould temperature, the vacuum pressure in the mould monitoring the resin state in composites during cure for
either the inlet flow or pressure during injection, and the control purposes. To effectively use this technique it is
final mould pressure. A model-based feedback controller important to understand the electrical measurements that
is implemented to control the chemical cure and are made as well as their relationship to a material’s
manipulates the setpoint of the temperature controller to rheological properties. A description of the theoretical basis

© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited 63

 References and Abstracts
and assumptions from which the dielectric parameters are
obtained is provided. Experimental data obtained from three
dielectric measurement systems with three different types
of sensors are presented and compared. Comparisons are
based on measurements on epoxy and polyimide (PMR-
15) composites, as well as simple RC circuits. Comparisons
of dielectric data and Rheometrics Dynamic Spectrometer
data are also presented. The results show that the
measurements of RC-circuit responses made by these three
dielectric systems are identical; sensor response, which is
influenced by temperature, can confound the test material
response; and different types of sensors have different
temperature characteristics. The information presented may
serve as a guide to making dielectric equipment choices
and interpreting dielectric measurements on new composite
materials. 16 refs.
USA
Accession no.698161
Item 171
Materials Challenge - Diversification and the Future.
Volume 40: Book 1. Symposium proceedings.
Anaheim, Ca., 8th-11th May 1995, p.645-53. 627
REAL TIME PROCESS MONITORING FOR
CURE OF COMPOSITES USING
DIELECTROMETRY
Corley T J
Westinghouse Power Generation BU
(SAMPE)
Generator stator coil groundwall insulation systems are
composites of either A- or B-stage materials with fillers
such as glass and mica tapes. These materials, when
appropriately formulated and processed, give the
groundwall its unique properties. These properties include
long-term dielectric strength, low electrical loss, high
insulation resistance, excellent thermoelectric endurance
as well as mechanical and thermomechanical properties.
Dielectrometry is presented as a means of continuous
monitoring of the cure of high voltage stator coil
groundwall insulation and hence the composite system
in real time. 4 refs.
USA
Accession no.698155
Item 172
Materials Challenge - Diversification and the Future.
Volume 40: Book 1. Symposium proceedings.
Anaheim, Ca., 8th-11th May 1995, p.51-8. 627
UV AND FLUORESCENCE TECHNIQUES FOR
CHARACTERISATION OF CURE PROCESSES
IN POLYMERS AND COMPOSITES
Sung C S P; Sung N H
Connecticut,University; Tufts University
(SAMPE)
Research on the development and application of sensitive
optical techniques for characterisation of cure processes
64
in polymers and composites is described. The first
approach discussed is the route of the extrinsic reactive
fluorophoric sensors, added in small amounts either to
mimic the curing agent or the monomer. The second
approach to be described is the exploration of intrinsic
fluorescence and UV signals for cure characterisation of
polymers and composites such as diamine cured epoxy,
polyimide, PU, PMMA and PS. For in situ characterisation
during actual processing, the development of optic fibre
fluorescence or UV reflection attachments is described.
12 refs.
USA
Accession no.698104
Item 173
Materials Challenge - Diversification and the Future.
Volume 40: Book 1. Symposium proceedings.
Anaheim, Ca., 8th-11th May 1995, p.42-50. 627
OPTICAL FIBRE EXTRINSIC FABRY-PEROT
INTERFEROMERIC SENSOR FOR POLYMER
MATRIX COMPOSITE EVALUATION
Bhatia V; Sen M B; May R G; Murphy K A; Claus R O;
Greene J A; Tran T A
Virginia,Polytechnic Institute & State University; Fiber
& Sensor Technologies Inc.
(SAMPE)
Recent progress in the development of extrinsic Fabry-
Perot interferometric (EFPI) sensors is reported. Novel
techniques for polymer composite cure monitoring and
subsequent non-destructive evaluation are described.
Polymer adhesives are evaluated for the construction of
the EFPI sensor. New construction techniques result in a
sensor that can survive over 10,000,000 cycles under
fatigue loading when attached to or embedded within
polymer matrix composites (PMC). Fibre sensors have
found numerous industrial, military and civil applications
in the last decade. These sensors are small in size and
highly sensitive, are immune to electromagnetic
interference and can easily be modified for distributed or
multi-parameter measurement. The EFPI sensor possesses
all these advantages but still has a few limitations which
have prevented its large-scale commercialisation as an
effective, multi-purpose sensor. These limitations are
discussed and the development of techniques which have
allowed these shortcomings to be surmounted, in terms
of both sensor fabrication and sensor operation, are
reported. 4 refs.
USA
Accession no.698103
Item 174
Materials Challenge - Diversification and the Future.
Volume 40: Book 2. Symposium proceedings.
Anaheim, Ca., 8th-11th May 1995, p.1466-77. 627
IN SITU FDEMS SENSING FOR INTELLIGENT
AUTOMATED CURE IN RESIN TRANSFER
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
MOULDING OF ADVANCED ARCHITECTURE
TEXTILE PREFORMS
Kranbuehl D E; Hood D; Rogozinski J; Limburg W;
Loos A C; Marae J
Williamsburg,College of William & Mary
(SAMPE)
Frequency dependent electromagnetic sensing (FDEMS)
is developed for in situ monitoring of resin position,
viscosity and degree of cure in situ in the mould during
resin transfer moulding, in filtration and the cure process.
A multi-dimensional model of resin transfer moulding is
developed which can successfully predict the infiltration
behaviour, as well as viscosity and degree as the resin
flows in a dry textile preform. Resin transfer moulding
experiments are conducted both at NASA Langley and at
Northrop Corporation with a reactive epoxy resin and
carbon fabric preforms. Agreement between model and
sensor measured infiltration patterns, viscosity and degree
of cure throughout the infiltration and cure process is
described. The results of cure runs using the combined
sensor model system for closed loop automated intelligent
control are emphasised. 15 refs.
USA
Accession no.698056
Item 175
Journal of Materials Processing & Manufacturing
Science
6, No.1, July 1997, p.39-62
NEURAL NETWORK-BASED OPTIMAL
CURING OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS
Rai N; Pitchumani R
Connecticut,University
The use of an artificial neural network in conjunction with
a non-linear programming technique for determining
optimal cure cycles for the fabrication of thermosetting
matrix composites is discussed. The neural network is
trained in terms of non-dimensional groups formed of the
process and product parameters, which provides for better
incorporation of the physical relationships among the
parameters, for minimisation of the training variables and
for generalisation of the network training across material
systems. Optimal cure cycles are reported for a wide range
of practically-relevant processing conditions. 36 refs.
USA
Accession no.695382
Item 176
Smart Materials & Structures
7, No.4, Aug. 1998, p.557-68
IN SITU CURE MONITORING USING OPTICAL
FIBRE SENSORS. A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Powell G R; Crosby P A; Waters D N; France C M;
Spooncer R C; Fernando G F
Brunel University; Cranfield,University
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
A comparative study is presented for different types of
optical fibre sensor developed to monitor the cure of an
epoxy resin system. The sensors were based on
transmission spectroscopy, evanescent wave spectroscopy
and refractive index monitoring. 19 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.694840
Item 177
Euradh 96. Adhesion 96. Volume Two. Conference
proceedings.
Cambridge, 3rd-6th Sept.1996, p.625-7. 9(12)4
EXPERIMENTAL METHODS FOR THE
ASSESSMENT OF THE CURE OF AN ADHESIVE
Olusanya A
UK,National Physical Laboratory
(Institute of Materials; Societe Francaise du Vide;
Dechema Institut)
The rate of cure of an adhesive is often the critical rate
determining step in a manufacturing or a construction
process. The physical behaviour of a curing adhesive
during processing can also have considerable influence
on the overall manufacturing route. There has been a
considerable amount of work undertaken to develop
techniques which can monitor and measure the cure of
adhesives. A number of methods used to monitor the cure
of a structural adhesive are investigated, including
quasistatic and dynamic mechanical testing, thermal
testing and non-destructive methods such as ultrasound
and medium and high frequency dielectric measurements.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.694814
Item 178
Euradh 96. Adhesion 96. Volume Two. Conference
proceedings.
Cambridge, 3rd-6th Sept.1996, p.397-402. 9(12)4
LOW RESOLUTION PULSED NMR AND
ULTRASOUND STUDY TO MONITOR THE
CURE OF EPOXY RESIN ADHESIVES
Cocker R P; Chadwick D L; Dare D J; Challis R E
Manchester,Metropolitan University; Keele,University
(Institute of Materials; Societe Francaise du Vide;
Dechema Institut)
Two different, but complimentary, methods are presented
for the non-invasive monitoring of the cure process of
epoxy resin systems. The cure of an epichlorohydrin-
bisphenol A based resin an amine hardener is investigated
using both low resolution pulsed NMR and broad
bandwidth pulsed ultrasound. The NMR is used to track
the concentration and mobility of hydrogen nuclei as the
cure progressed and ultrasound absorption and propagation
velocity changes are also used to study the cure process.
The results show good agreement between the two
65
 References and Abstracts
techniques, and suggest that the cure may be divided into
distinct phases. It is suggested that an initial liquid stage
where short polymer chains are formed is followed by a
second stage where longer molecules develop. The later
stages of cure are characterised by the solidification of the
adhesive and the development of the final crosslinked
network. The results obtained are consistent with
established reaction mechanisms and cure times predicted
by mechanical and other techniques. 7 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.694778
Item 179
Composites Part A: Applied Science and
Manufacturing
29, No.7, 1998, p.811-9
GLASS FIBRE EPOXY COMPOSITE CURE
MONITORING USING PARALLEL PLATE
DIELECTRIC ANALYSIS IN COMPARISON
WITH THERMAL AND MECHANICAL TESTING
TECHNIQUES
Abraham D; McIlhagger R
Ulster,University
A dielectric analyser(DEA) with parallel plates was used
to simulate the cycle conditions of a resin transfer
moulding(RTM) process. Arbitrary positions of the DEA
analysis output were used to identify the conditions for
various states of cure, to which several mouldings were
subsequently manufactured and cured using an RTM
system. Thermal and mechanical testing techniques were
used on these RTM mouldings in an attempt to determine
the suitability of the parallel plate sensors for degree of
cure detection and the influence of cure upon the final
composite material properties. Results indicated that a
correlation existed between the DEA output using parallel
plate sensors and the change in properties of the composite
with cure time. This was also beneficial in that the
optimum cure cycle was identified. The possibility of
using parallel plate DEA as a means not only for
optimising cure cycles in the laboratory but also as a
potential means of process control is discussed. 26 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.691411
Item 180
Journal of Composite Materials
32, No.14, 1998, p.1273-96
CURING BEHAVIOR OF THICK-SECTIONED
RESIN TRANSFER MOLDING(RTM)
COMPOSITES
Michaud D J; Beris A N; Dhurjati P S
Delaware,University
The fabrication of actual 2.54 cm thick composite plates
is outlined and the materials used in RTM experiments
66
are described. The use of a finite difference simulation to
predict the curing of the composites based on
experimentally-determined physical and chemical
parameters is discussed. The modifications required for
the kinetic models within the simulation accurately to
predict cure behaviour at the temps. required for thick-
sectioned parts are considered. The improved version of
the simulation is compared with experimental results and
the dramatic effect of the presence of fibres on the kinetic
behaviour of the resin is demonstrated. 21 refs.
USA
Accession no.691384
Item 181
Annales des Composites
No.2, 1996, p.39-47
French
FOLLOWING CROSSLINKING AND WATER
ABSORPTION IN GLASS FIBRE/EPOXY
COMPOSITES BY A DIELECTRIC METHOD
Durand C; Maistros G; Partridge I; Davies P
Cranfield,University; IFREMER
A dielectric technique was used to follow the uptake of
water in a glass fibre-reinforced epoxy resin composite for
use in marine applications. Dielectric sensors were
embedded in the composite during its fabrication, and were
used firstly to monitor cure and then to detect the arrival of
water at different points in the composite after immersion
in distilled water. The results were obtained in-situ and in
real time. Water absorption in the composite was compared
to that in the non-reinforced epoxy resin, and changes in
the mechanical properties were evaluated. 15 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.691276
Item 182
Polymer Composites
19, No.3, June 1998, p.225-32
ULTRASONIC EVALUATION OF GRAPHITE/
EPOXY COMPOSITES WITH DIFFERENT
CURING CONDITIONS
Chen J Y; Hoa S V; Jen C K; Viens M; Monchalin J P
Concordia University; Canada,National Research
Council
Ultrasonic evaluation of AS4/3501-6 graphite/epoxy
composites and Hercules 3501-6 epoxies with different
curing conditions was carried out. DSC and DMA were
used to characterise the cure status of these materials. The
anisotropic elastic moduli, through-thickness longitudinal
wave dispersion and attenuation were measured by different
ultrasonic techniques. Effects of curing conditions on the
mechanical properties of the composites and corresponding
epoxies were discussed. 14 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.689725
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Item 183
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
69, No.7, 1998, p.1367-83
EFFECT OF RESIDUAL MONOMER CONTENT
ON SOME PROPERTIES OF A POLY(METHYL
METHACRYLATE)-BASED BONE CEMENT
Vallo C I; Montemartini P E; Cuadrado T R
Mar del Plata,University; Argentina,National Research
Council
Degree of polymerisation attainable in a commercial
acrylic bone cement based on PMMA was investigated
by DSC and gas chromatography. The influence of the
residual monomer content on some mechanical properties
of a bone cement was investigated. The mechanical
evaluation was performed on specimens subjected to two
different cure conditions. 29 refs.
ARGENTINA
Accession no.689515
Item 184
Antec 98. Volume II. Conference proceedings.
Atlanta, Ga., 26th-30th April 1998, p.2351-5. 012
MONITORING COMPOSITES WITH OPTICAL
FIBRE SENSOR SYSTEMS
Parnas R S; Dunkers J P; Neff R A
US,National Inst.of Standards & Technology
(SPE)
An inexpensive optical fibre is interfaced with high-speed
fluorescence and near infrared spectrometers to provide
real-time monitoring of fast-reacting systems. Cure
monitoring measurements are conducted in high volume
fraction, glass reinforced composites with both an epoxy-
amine system and a fast curing polyurethane-isocyanurate
system. Optical theory is applied to understand the
response of evanescent wave optical fibre sensors. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.687442
Item 185
Composites Science & Technology
58, No.2, 1998, p.191-7
SIMULATION OF TEMPERATURE AND
CURING PROFILES IN PULTRUDED
COMPOSITE RODS
Suratno B R; Ye L; Mai Y-W
Sydney,University
An iterative procedure was developed for the simulation
of the pultrusion process for polymer-matrix composites.
A two-dimensional finite element model was applied to
simulate heat transfer and temperature profiles inside the
die during pultrusion. Theoretical predictions were
compared with data for carbon fibre-reinforced epoxy
resins. 12 refs.
AUSTRALIA
Accession no.686162
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 186
Antec 98. Volume I. Conference proceedings.
Atlanta, Ga., 26th-30th April 1998, p.1084-8. 012
ACCELERATED CURING OF EPOXY PASTE
ADHESIVES FOR REPAIR OF COMPOSITES
USING INDUCTION HEATING
McKnight S H; Fink B K; Wells S; Yarlagadda S;
Gillespie J W
US,Army Research Laboratory; Delaware,University
(SPE)
A methodology for accelerated curing of commercially
available room temperature curing paste adhesives is
outlined. Cure kinetics of the adhesive are studied by
thermochemical analysis and degree of cure is related to
processing parameters and cure cycles. Increasing the cure
temperature to 100 deg.C reduces the cure time from 16
hrs to approximately 15 minutes for 98% cure. Induction
heating techniques are used to demonstrate rapid heating
of adhesive at the bond line for lap shear specimens. 7 refs.
USA
Accession no.684679
Item 187
Antec 98. Volume I. Conference proceedings.
Atlanta, Ga., 26th-30th April 1998, p.939-44. 012
IN-SITU MONITORING OF A POLYMER CURE
USING DYNAMIC RHEOMETRY AND RAMAN
SPECTROSCOPY
Rose J; Osbaldiston R; Smith W; Farquharson S; Shaw M T
Connecticut,University; Advanced Fuel Research Inc.
(SPE)
The chemical structure and mechanical response of curing
polymers are simultaneously monitored by Raman
spectroscopy and rheometry, respectively. This is
accomplished by integrating a fibre optic probe into the
upper rotational rheometer fixture. The fibre optic probe
is bifurcated to allow connection to a source laser and
spectrometer for detection. The system is used to study
an epoxy resin and a polyimide. 14 refs.
USA
Accession no.684651
Item 188
European Polymer Journal
34, Nos.3-4, March/April 1998, p.399-404
ANALYSIS OF CURING MODE AND
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF AN
ANAEROBIC ADHESIVE
George B; Touyeras F; Grohens Y; Vebrel J
IUT Chimie de Besancon; Institut de Chimie des
Surfaces et Interfaces
DSC was used to investigate the effect of three parameters
on the curing reaction of a standard anaerobic adhesive
(Loctite 648, polymethacrylate-based). The effects of
metallic catalysis (iron, copper and aluminium),
67
 References and Abstracts
atmosphere and temp. were compared. The mechanical
resistances of the metallic substrate/adhesive pairs were
evaluated by performing a mechanical test, the three-point
flexure test. The surface properties (adherence) were then
characterised. Finally, the influence of curing kinetics on
mass (cohesion) was examined. It was found that metallic
catalysis by transition metals clearly increased the curing
kinetics and, in some cases, its effect on reactivity was
more significant than the anaerobic or temp. parameters.
It appeared that the three parameters, when studied
simultaneously, had a synergistic effect which did not
necessarily give appropriate mechanical properties, as
shown by the mechanical test results. 16 refs.
LOCTITE CORP.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.684537
Item 189
Applied Spectroscopy
52, No.4, April 1998, p.552-6
FOURIER TRANSFORM NEAR-IR
MONITORING OF REACTING RESINS USING
AN EVANESCENT WAVE HIGH-INDEX FIBRE-
OPTIC SENSOR
Dunkers J P; Flynn K M; Huang M T; McDonough W G
US,National Institute of Standards & Technology
A high-index silica-based fibre-optic mini-bundle sensor
was constructed and implemented with a Fourier
transform near-IR spectrometer. Reactions of a
polyisocyanurate and an epoxy resin were monitored and
peak assignments were made and discussed with respect
to their potential for use in real-time analysis. Cure
monitoring was also demonstrated in a resin transfer
moulded glass fibre-reinforced epoxy resin part. 24 refs.
USA
Accession no.682964
Item 190
Composites Part B: Engineering
29B, No.3, 1998, p.245-50
MONITORING AUTOCLAVE CURE IN
COMMERCIAL CARBON FIBRE/EPOXY
COMPOSITES
Maistros G M; Partridge I K
Cranfield,University
Embedded dielectric sensors and thermocouples were
used to monitor the state of cure, in real time, for a range
of current commercial epoxy resin/carbon fibre-reinforced
composites. The methodology and data analyses involved
in the monitoring procedure are summarised and specific
examples of the results obtained are given. The generic
rules governing the relationships between dielectric
properties and material transformations for epoxy-based
resins are stated. The problem of reaction exotherms in
thick sections and the resulting uneven temp. and property
68
distributions are quantified for two specific resin types.
The reduction in interlaminar shear strength, resulting
from the presence of the embedded dielectric sensors, was
shown to be 15% for a brittle resin system and 5% for a
tough resin system. 14 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.682765
Item 191
Materials World
6, No.6, June 1998, p.340-2
MAKING LIGHT WORK OF MATERIALS
SENSORS
Fernando G
Cranfield,University
The use of optical fibre-based sensor systems for cost-
effective solutions for in-situ process and health
monitoring of composite materials and engineering
materials and structures, is discussed. Advantages of
optical fibres in sensing applications are examined,
together with details of mechanisms by which they
operate, namely: internal selection, evanescence and
interference. Details are given of three main approaches
to monitoring fibre reinforced composites: embedding
optical fibres into the composite, the use of an optical
fibre-based sensor system such as the fibre Bragg grating
or extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometric sensor, and a third
optical fibre-based sensing system which converts
reinforcing fibres into light guides.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.681259
Item 192
Materials World
6, No.6, June 1998, p.337-8
ON-LINE NDE AND MONITORING OF
COMPOSITES MANUFACTURING
Steiner K
Delaware,University
Research work carried out at the Centre for Composite
Materials at the University of Delaware, is described, with
reference to non-destructive sensing and monitoring
techniques used in composite manufacturing. Such
techniques are claimed will enable composites to be used
in broader areas of applications, and to reduce costs, while
improving quality and manufacturability.
USA
Accession no.681258
Item 193
Smart Materials & Structures
7, No.2, April 1998, p.145-58
IN SITU PROCESS AND CONDITION
MONITORING OF ADVANCED FIBRE-
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts

REINFORCED COMPOSITE MATERIALS DSC to determine the influence of hydroxyethyl

USING OPTICAL FIBRE SENSORS methacrylate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate crosslinking
Doyle C; Martin A; Liu T; Wu M; Hayes S; Crosby P agent. Reaction rate constants were determined. The
A; Powell G R; Brools D; Fernando G F influence of heating rate and tricalcium phosphate on
Brunel University frequency factor and activation energy are also discussed.
21 refs.
An overview is presented of a number of optical fibre
CHINA
sensor systems developed and used in advanced fibre-
reinforced composites for in situ process and condition Accession no.670597
monitoring. The test specimens consisted of prepreg-
based carbon fibre-reinforced epoxy resin and glass fibre- Item 196
reinforced epoxy resin filament wound tubes. Correlations Iranian Polymer Journal
are made between surface-mounted strain gauges and 6, No.4, Oct.1997, p.227-33
embedded optical fibres. 40 refs. CURE KINETICS OF NOVEL
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK; TETRAFUNCTIONAL GLYCIDYL EPOXY
WESTERN EUROPE RESIN AND THEIR GLASS FIBRE-
Accession no.678638 REINFORCED COMPOSITE
Amin K G; Patel K J; Patel R G
Item 194 Sardar Patel University
Journal of Composite Materials The curing reactions of tetrafunctional epoxy resin using
32, No.7, 1998, p.600-22 different amine curing agents were studied by DSC. The
EFFECTS OF THERMO-MECHANICAL kinetics of thermal degradation were studied by TGA.
PROPERTIES OF COMPOSITES ON Glass fibre-reinforced epoxy resins were evaluated for
VISCOSITY, TEMPERATURE AND DEGREE OF their physical, mechanical, chemical and electrical
CURING THICK THERMOSETTING properties. 14 refs.
COMPOSITE LAMINATES DURING CURING INDIA
PROCESS
Accession no.670564
Sung Yi; Hilton H H
Nanyang,Technological University; Illinois,University
Item 197
The effects of thermal conductivities, fibre volume fraction
Smart Materials & Structures
ratios, thicknesses of laminates and bagging materials on
7, No.1, Feb.1998, p.113-20
viscosity, temp. and degree of cure in thick laminated
SENSITIVITY OF PIEZOELECTRIC WAFERS
composites were investigated. Thermal properties such as
TO THE CURING OF THERMOSET RESINS
the density, specific heat and thermal conductivity were
AND THERMOSET COMPOSITES
taken to be both temp.- and degree of cure-dependent and
Xiaoming Wang; Ehlers C; Kissinger C; Neitzel M;
the internal heat generation term was expressed as a
Lin Ye; Yiu-Wing Mai
function of the cure rate. A non-linear transient heat transfer
Sydney,University; Institut fuer Verbundwerkstoffe
finite element model was used to simulate the curing
GmbH
process. Temp. and degree of cure in the laminates with
various thicknesses were evaluated using various thermal The behaviour of piezoelectric elements in viscous liquids
conductivities reported in the literature. The aim was was examined and the effects of the viscosity, mass
accurate prediction of viscosity, temp. profile and degree density and modulus of the liquid on the electrical
of cure distribution developed within thick laminated response of the piezoelectric elements was qualitatively
composites during the curing process. 16 refs. evaluated. The experimental investigation on the
SINGAPORE; USA monitoring of a thermoset resin and a thermoset composite
Accession no.677781 cure was then applied to assess the feasibility of this
approach. 12 refs.
AUSTRALIA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;
Item 195 GERMANY; WESTERN EUROPE
Journal of Biomedical Materials Research (Applied Accession no.669562
Biomaterials)
43, No.1, Spring 1998, p.54-61
POLYMERISATION OF ACRYLIC BONE
CEMENT: EFFECT OF HEMA AND EGDMA
Yang J-M
Taiwan,Chang Gung University of Technology
The polymerisation reaction of Simplex-P polyhydroxyethyl
methacrylate radiopaque bone cement was investigated by

© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited 69

 References and Abstracts
Item 198
Reinforced Plastics
42, No.2, Feb.1998, p.30-2
RESIN FLOW FRONT MONITORING IN RTM
Shepard D
Knowledge of how the resin fills the mould can aid in the
optimisation of the resin transfer moulding process and
result in faster process development and more consistent,
high quality parts. The new SMARTweave sensing system
from Micromet Instruments can provide mould filling data
by making in-process measurements at multiple locations
within the mould to provide a map of the mould filling
process.
MICROMET INSTRUMENTS INC.
USA
Accession no.669055
Item 199
Reinforced Plastics
41, No.9, Oct.1997, p.48-54
REDUCED COST, HIGHER PERFORMANCE RTM
Francomb J; Parmar M
Pera Technology
Pera Technology has recently completed a project aimed
at developing a generic resin injection technology giving
full monitoring of the process, with improved accuracy,
flexible control and lower cycle times. The system
developed is capable of profiling injection speeds during
mould fill, whilst maintaining precise control over mixing
conditions and resin flow. Three case studies were
undertaken to provide practical and industrial validation
for the technology. These were an aircraft spinner cap, an
automotive suspension wishbone and a support housing
for a solar heating system.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.654633
Item 200
Smart Materials & Structures
6, No.4, Aug.1997, p.464-9
MULTI-MODE EXTRINSIC FABRY-PEROT
INTERFEROMETRIC STRAIN SENSOR
Liu T; Brooks D; Martin A; Badcock R; Ralph B;
Fernando G F
Brunel University
The fabrication and evaluation of a multi-mode extrinsic
Fabry-Perot interferometric (EFPI) sensor, which is
capable of measuring both tensile and compressive strains,
is reported. A scanning monochromator is used to measure
the absolute cavity length of the EFPI sensor. Sensors of
this type are embedded within a 16-ply carbon-fibre-
reinforced epoxy composite and tested under quasi-static
tensile and compressive loading conditions. Excellent
correlation is observed between the EFPI sensor and a
surface-mounted extensometer. The sensor system can
70
operate in the strain range from -1 to 1% with an accuracy
of better than 30 micro-strain. Preliminary results indicate
that the sensor design is relatively insensitive to
temperature in the range 38-180 deg.C. An analysis of
the relationship between the insensitivity and the sensor
geometry is also presented. 20 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.651472
Item 201
Polymer Composites
18, No.3, June 1997, p.412-7
NON-LINEAR CONTROL METHOD FOR RESIN
TRANSFER MOULDING
Mogavero J; Sun J Q; Advani S G
Delaware,University
A non-linear control method for providing constant flow
rate resin transfer moulding processes with a process pot
solely through the use of a regulator was presented.
Computer simulations of the control examined the effect
of various parameters on the ability to maintain constant
flow rate. Rectilinear flow experiments were carried out
to evaluate the theoretical development. 44 refs.
USA
Accession no.650243
Item 202
Polymer Composites
18, No.3, June 1997, p.283-99
EXPERIMENTAL CHARACTERISATION OF
AUTOCLAVE-CURED GLASS-EPOXY
COMPOSITE LAMINATES: CURE CYCLE
EFFECTS UPON THICKNESS, VOID CONTENT,
AND RELATED PHENOMENA
Thomas M M; Joseph B; Kardos J L
Washington,University
Results are presented from over 100 autoclave curing
fibreglass-epoxy composite laminate curing runs to verify
shrinking horizon model predictive control (SHMPC) for
thickness and void content control, using readily available
secondary measurements and to present and analyse the
extensive experimental results obtained through this
verification. Seven series of curing runs (16 per series)
were performed, with cure settings governed by partial-
or full-factorial orthogonal array based design of
experiments. 51 refs.
USA
Accession no.650233
Item 203
Journal of Materials Science.Materials in Medicine
8, No.8, Aug.1997, p.507-10
DETERMINATION OF CURING TIME IN
VISIBLE LIGHT-CURED COMPOSITE RESINS
OF DIFFERENT THICKNESS BY ELECTRON
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
PARAMAGNETIC RESONANCE
Sustercic D; Cevc P; Funduk N; Pintar M M
Ljubljana,University; Waterloo,University
The irradiation time of a visible-light-activated composite
necessary to achieve full polymerisation throughout the
material is studied. Curing time dependence on the
thickness of the material is also investigated. To monitor
the visible light-activation effect, the free radical
concentration is measured as a function of irradiation time.
If the composite sample is less than 0.5 mm thick and
exposed to light for a time interval recommended by the
manufacturer, full radical concentration is indeed created
uniformly. This is not the case in thicker samples. Electron
paramagnetic resonance (EPR) is used to monitor the
concentration of free radicals in the samples. The number
of radicals is monitored as a function of irradiation time
during which the radicals are generated in samples 0.5,
0.8, 2.0, 3.0 and 5.0 mm thick. An EPR X-band
spectrometer is used to detect the free radical spectra. The
number of free radicals per unit mass as a function of
irradiation time shows that 60% of the maximum
concentration of radicals in a 1 mm sample is reached in
24 s curing time, while in thicker samples it takes hundreds
of seconds. On the basis of the experiments, a depth and
irradiation time-dependent radical concentration model is
developed. This model shows that a 2.0 mm thick sample
is cured at the bottom side if irradiated for 60 s. It is
proposed that the measure of the degree of polymerisation
in composite materials should be the polymerisation of the
bottom layer of the sample, which is modelled from the
number of free radicals generated in the sample. 24 refs.
CANADA; SLOVENIA
Accession no.648071
Item 204
Kunststoffe Plast Europe
87, No.7, July 1997, p.19
REINFORCING FIBRES FOR EPOXY RESIN
COMPOSITES
Frenzel H.Queck H; Haussler L; Plonka R
Glass fibre sizings with a reactive component can accelerate
the crosslinking reaction of the epoxy resin directly from
the glass fibre surface. With the aid of DSC and viscosity
measurements, the accelerating effect of reactively sized
glass fibres is demonstrated in an epoxy resin system.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.648055
Item 205
International Journal of Adhesion & Adhesives
17, No.2, May 1997, p.121-6
SPECTROSCOPIC AND MECHANICAL
EVIDENCE OF THE INFLUENCE OF THE
SUBSTRATE ON AN ANAEROBIC ADHESIVE
CURE
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
George B; Touyeras F; Grohens Y; Vebrel J
Iut Chimie de Besancon; Institut de Chimie des
Surfaces et Interfaces
The catalytic effect of different substrates (steel,
aluminium and copper) on the curing reaction of a
standard anaerobic adhesive (Loctite 648, based on a
urethane-modified dimethacrylate prepolymer) was
investigated by IR microscopy in reflection mode. The
kinetics of the cure reaction, studied in terms of the
decrease of the C:C bond absorption peak, differed
depending on the substrate under investigation. Copper
was the most reactive surface of the metals studied. The
assumed role of saccharin contained in the anaerobic
adhesive which was able to oxidise metals into ions was
examined. An attempt was made to correlate the kinetic
results with the mechanical performances of the adhesive
joint measured by a single lap shearing test. The fast
curing reaction of the anaerobic adhesive on a surface
such as copper thus led to poor maximal strain, while
lower surface reactivity could provide better mechanical
performances of the adhesive joints. 17 refs.
LOCTITE CORP.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.641442
Item 206
High Performance Polymers
9, No.2, June 1997, p.153-60
SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERISATION AND
GLASS-REINFORCED COMPOSITES OF
ACETONE-FORMALDEHYDE-PHENOL RESINS
Patel H S; Dixit B C
Sardar Patel University
An acetone-formaldehyde resin having a methylol group
was prepared and characterised. The condensation of the
resin with phenol was carried out and characterised using
elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, molecular weight
measurements, and TGA. Curing was monitored by DSC
and kinetic parameters were evaluated. Glass-reinforced
composites were also prepared. 13 refs.
INDIA
Accession no.641021
Item 207
Antec 97. Volume II. Conference proceedings.
Toronto, 27th April-2nd May 1997, p.2451-3. 012
NEAR INFRARED CURE MONITORING AND
CONTROL OF RESIN TRANSFER MOULDED
EPOXY COMPOSITE USING EVANESCENT
WAVE HIGH INDEX FIBRE OPTIC SENSOR
Dunkers J P; Flynn K M; Huang M T
US,National Inst.of Standards & Technology
(SPE)
Fibre optic near IR spectroscopy is used to monitor the
cure of a resin transfer moulded glass fibre reinforced epoxy
71
 References and Abstracts
composite. A mini-bundle of high index optical fibres is
placed in the centre of the reinforcement thickness. Spectra
are collected using evanescent wave Fourier transform near
infrared spectroscopy as the composite is curing. Peaks
representing amine consumption are identified as good
candidates for real-time monitoring and control of the epoxy
cure. A cure control algorithm based on model assisted
feedback control is presented. 11 refs.
USA
Accession no.638411
Item 208
Antec 97. Volume I. Conference proceedings.
Toronto, 27th April-2nd May 1997, p.774-81. 012
ANALYSIS OF CURE BEHAVIOUR OF SMC
DURING COMPRESSION MOULDING
Hamada H; Futamata K; Naito H
Kyoto,Institute of Technology; Sekisui Chemical
Co.Ltd.
(SPE)
The cure behaviour of SMC during compression moulding
is rather complicated due to heat generation in cure process
and heterogeneous material properties. Differential
scanning calorimetry may be an effective and powerful
method for measuring cure behaviour of various materials
but not useful for practical products, because the
dimensions of DSC specimens are much smaller than that
of practical products. A numerical analysis method for
measuring the cure behaviour of SMC is described.
Combining temperature measurement of SMC and three-
dimensional thermal conductivity analysis, taking into
account heat generation due to chemical diffusion, the heat
generation is determined by both data and consequently is
defined as a function of temperature of SMC. The obtained
heat generation function is again used in thermal
conductivity analysis. It is thus possible to obtain heat
generation curves and curing profiles. 7 refs.
JAPAN
Accession no.637316
Item 209
Antec 97. Volume I. Conference proceedings.
Toronto, 27th April-2nd May 1997, p.747-51. 012
RESIN CURE MONITORING USING THERMAL
CONDUCTIVITY MEASUREMENTS
Mathis N; Pytel J; Lee-Sullivan P
Mathis Instruments Ltd.; New Brunswick,University
(SPE)
The use of thermal conductivity measurements as a non-
destructive technique for monitoring the extent of curing
in a room temperature curing epoxy resin is investigated.
Three-point bending tests are performed immediately after
thermal conductivity measurements to evaluate the degree
of cure or crosslinking. The thermal conductivity values
closely follow the increase and subsequent levelling off in
flexural modulus and strength as vitrification progresses.
72
The inherent effect of dramatically increasing stiffness and
strength with elevated temperature post-curing is also
detected. This implies that thermal conductivity may be a
valuable parameter for assessing the amount of
crosslinking, as long as the changes are within the resolution
limits of the measuring equipment. 16 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.637312
Item 210
Rubber World
216, No.1, April 1997, p.45
CURE MONITORING
The capabilities are briefly outlined of dielectric and
ultrasonic cure monitoring instrumentation, software and
sensors from Micromet Instruments for composite cure
characterisation. The instrumentation is designed for use
in research and process development, quality control, and
production control.
MICROMET INSTRUMENTS INC.
USA
Accession no.636861
Item 211
Polymer Composites
18, No.1, Feb.1997, p.133-50
CURE MONITORING OF THE LIQUID
COMPOSITE MOULDING PROCESS USING
FIBRE OPTIC SENSORS
Woerdeman D L; Spoerre J K; Flynn K M; Parnas R S
Johns Hopkins University; Southern Illinois,University;
US,National Inst.of Standards & Technology
Cure monitoring during liquid composite moulding of
unidirectional glass fabric/epoxy resin composites was
carried out by evanescent wave fluorescence measurement
using a fibre optic sensor embedded in the fibre preform.
The fluorescence wavelength shift during cure was
correlated with monomer conversion as determined by
IR spectroscopy. Glass fabrics with 40-60% volume
fractions were injected with resin at a variety of driving
pressures and cured at several temperatures. Several
composite parts were fabricated to test the effects of
vacuum pressure, injection rate, curing temperature and
fibre fraction on the performance of the sensor, and the
sensitivity of the sensor to the condition of the resin
system was also examined. 45 refs.
USA
Accession no.632375
Item 212
Polymer Engineering and Science
37, No.2, Feb.1997, p.436-49
IN-PROCESS CONTROL OF EPOXY COMPOSITE
BY MICRODIELECTROMETRIC ANALYSIS
Stephan F; Fit A; Duteurtre X
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Renault SA; SERAM
The cure of an epoxy resin prepolymer based on bisphenol
A diglycidyl ether and a dicyandiamide-imidazole curing
system was investigated by microdielectrometry, DSC,
viscosity measurements and gel point detection.
Isothermal cures were examined and dielectric properties
such as ionic conductivity were related to the cure kinetics
by conversion through an experimentally established
equation. This mathematical model was used to predict
the reaction advancement of epoxy processing under non-
isothermal cure conditions. The model was able to predict
both isothermal and non-isothermal cure data for unaged
resin. Cure monitoring of epoxy resin/glass fibre prepregs
showed some deviations of the law in the last stage of
cure, but good correlation was obtained for the reaction
rate during the in-mould process curing time. 22 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.632356
Item 213
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
64, No.1, 4th April 1997, p.27-38
EVOLUTION OF PROPERTIES OF A
THERMOSETTING ISOCYANATE/EPOXY/
GLASS FIBRE MODEL COMPOSITE SYSTEM
WITH INCREASING CURE
DeMeuse M T; Gillham J K; Parodi F
EniChem America Inc.; Princeton,University; EniChem
SpA
The evolution of isothermal physical properties of a complex
thermosetting isocyanate/epoxy/glass fibre composite system
was monitored during cure. Measurements of modulus versus
temperature of a single composite specimen were obtained
by torsional braid analysis on repetitive cooling and
subsequent heating to successively higher temperatures.
Cross-plotting provided plots of isothermal modulus versus
conversion for temperatures from -180 to 380C from both
the cooling and the heating data. Comparison of isothermal
cooling and heating data provided a measure of matrix
toughness versus conversion through the extent of hysteresis
of the data. 10 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY; USA;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.632304
Item 214
Applied Spectroscopy
51, No.2, Feb.1997, p.247-52
PRECISE DETERMINATION OF PERCENT
CURE OF EPOXIDE POLYMERS AND
COMPOSITES VIA FIBRE-OPTIC RAMAN
SPECTROSCOPY AND MULTIVARIATE
ANALYSIS
Aust J F; Booksh K S; Stellman C M; Parnas R S;
Myrick M L
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
South Carolina,University; US,National Inst.of
Standards & Technology
A method for real time determination of the percent cure
of epoxy resins via in-situ fibre optic Raman spectroscopy
was developed. This method uses a probe design developed
for real time monitoring of polymer curing and multivariate
analysis to interpret the data and determine percent cure.
The method was demonstrated in curing of laboratory
samples. A preliminary study measuring cure percentage
in an industrial, glass-reinforced composite was shown to
be reliable in the 40-90 % cure range. 22 refs.
USA
Accession no.632123
Item 215
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
64, No.2, 11th April 1997, p.337-42
ELECTRICAL SENSING OF SHELF-CURE
PROPERTIES OF POLYMERIC PREPREG
MATERIALS
Lunt B M; Merrell R S; Strong A B; Cox M R
Brigham Young University
The process of shelf cure during storage of thermoset
resins is not readily observable nor quantifiable using
FTIR and it is difficult to obtain adequate resolution using
DSC. Tack and drape test methods can be used for periodic
sampling of the shelf-cure condition of the resin, but are
not readily adaptable to continuous monitoring. The
simplified resistivity-measuring device used in the present
study shows promise in both measuring and continuously
monitoring resin shelf cure. Test results obtained for Epon
DPL-862 and ICI Fiberite 948A1 and 934HM are
presented and discussed. 17 refs.
SHELL; ICI FIBERITE
USA
Accession no.631606
Item 216
Advanced Composites Bulletin
Feb.1997, p.8
CABLE FREE CURE-MONITORING SYSTEM
INTRODUCED
Micromet Instruments has introduced a remote dielectric
cure-monitoring system that is battery operated for use
in elevated temperature applications involving moving
systems, such as paint lines and continuous lamination
processes, where sensor cabling is not practical. The
CurePak Thru-Oven Cure Analyzer is housed in an
insulated enclosure for thermal protection and can pass
through ovens that reach temperatures up to 375 deg.C.
The size of the enclosure is tailored to match the needs of
a specific application. Very brief details are noted.
MICROMET INSTRUMENTS INC.
USA
Accession no.630937
73
 References and Abstracts
Item 217
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
63, No.13, 28th March 1997, p.1769-75
INTERPHASE CURE CHARACTERISATION IN
EPOXY COMPOSITES BY FLUORESCENCE
TECHNIQUE
Jae-Woong Yu; Chong Pook Paik Sung
Connecticut,University
Monitoring the reaction of an aromatic diamine curing
agent with epoxy by fluorescence was used for cure
characterisation of the interphase in epoxy/glass and
epoxy/carbon composites. The effect of various surface
treatments was first studied by the model interphase
obtained using a quartz plate for glass or a modified quartz
plate for carbon surface. The effects of the various surface
treatments on glass or carbon fibre were also studied with
the actual composites made by a thin coating of epoxy-
diamine melt on glass or carbon fibre bundles. 26 refs.
USA
Accession no.630047
Item 218
Adhesives Age
40, No.2, Feb.1997, p.52-3
FAST CURE REACTIVE HOT MELT
ADHESIVES MAINTAIN MELT STABILITY
Hung J-M
National Starch & Chemical Co.
A new technique is described that has enabled a series of
fast cure reactive hot melt adhesives with excellent melt
stability characteristics to be prepared and
commercialised. The curing rate of reactive hot melt
adhesives was measured by the speed of lap shear strength
development. The melt stability was measured by the
viscosity increase per hour at 250 degrees F. The effects
of humidity on curing speeds was examined. It was shown
that the fast cured version of reactive hot melts have better
curing rate and initial strength to improve assembly rates.
USA
Accession no.629698
Item 219
Journal of the Adhesive and Sealant Council. Volume 1.
Fall 1996. Conference proceedings.
San Francisco, Ca. 3rd-6th Nov.1996, p.355-72. 6A1
RAPRA SCANNING VIBRATING NEEDLE
CUREMETER
Sheard E A; Willoughby B G
Lescon Inc.; Rapra Technology Ltd.
(US,Adhesives & Sealants Council)
Liquids which cure to solids are of major commercial
importance, providing solid and foamed elastomers,
structural materials, surface coatings, adhesives, sealants,
and films. The reliable monitoring of these production
processes is vital for effective process and product control,
74
yet the process of cure is so complex that description
according to a single diagnostic point is clearly
inadequate. Such parameters as pot-life, work-life, cure
rate, demould time, etc., can all be important for successful
processing. Yet these are rarely monitored on a regular
basis. Continuous cure profiling is needed, as has been
routine with traditional millable rubber for many years.
The traces obtained are not only an aid to product
development and production, they provide a vital
fingerprint for reference at any time in the future. Hence,
for reactive liquid resins, there has been a need for a low
cost instrument which can monitor the changes from a
free-flowing liquid through to a solid. The absence of such
an instrument in a practical and robust package was the
spur to the development of the RAPRA Scanning
Vibrating Needle Curemeter. Details are given. 22 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK; USA;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.626534
Item 220
Applied Composite Materials
4, No.1, 1997, p.1-11
TEMPERATURE PREDICTIONS IN THICK
COMPOSITE LAMINATES AT LOW CURE
TEMPERATURES
Olofsson K S
Swedish Institute of Composites; Lulea,University of
Technology
The cure behaviour of thick glass/epoxy resin laminates
cured at low initial temps. was studied experimentally
and by simulation. The aim was to study how sensitive
the temp. development in a commercial epoxy resin was
to initial cure temp. for a few different combinations of
wall thickness and fibre content. The general accuracy of
all the temp. predictions was good. For low initial cure
temps. (50-80C) small inaccuracies in the reaction kinetics
and material data affected the predictions. Analysis of
the results indicated that the main error source was likely
to be the reaction kinetics data/model used at these temps.
These inaccuracies would, furthermore, affect the temp.
predictions during the remaining cure cycle. 13 refs.
SCANDINAVIA; SWEDEN; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.625157
Item 221
Polymer
38, No.3, Feb.1997, p.639-46
CHARACTERISATION OF THE CURE
REACTIONS OF BISMALEIMIDE COMPOSITE
MATRICES
Morgan R J; Shin E E; Rosenberg B; Jurek A
Michigan,State University
The cure reactions of 4,4'-bismaleimidodiphenyl methane
(BMPM)/O,O’-diallyl bisphenol A (DABPA)
bismaleimide composite matrices were studied using
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
systematic FTIR spectroscopy and DSC for 1-14h
isothermal exposures in the 130-300C range. The reaction
mechanisms were discussed with reference to their effects
on the glass transition temperature and mechanical
properties of the composite matrices. 20 refs.
USA
Accession no.623493
Item 222
Journal of Composite Materials
31, No.1, 1997, p.87-102
FIBER OPTIC SENSOR DEVELOPMENT FOR
REAL-TIME IN-SITU EPOXY CURE
MONITORING
Liu Y M; Ganesh C; Steele J P H; Jones J E
Colorado,School of Mines
A fibre optic sensor system based on the principle of Fresnel
reflection, for monitoring the cure process in composite
manufacturing, is described. The main advantage of the
sensor is that it is of low cost and can be embedded in the
material to provide in-situ, real-time information on degree
of cure. The experimental work is discussed with reference
to the experimental set-up, DSC calibration, sensor
response for dynamic cure, sensor response for isothermal
cure and sensor calibration. 17 refs.
USA
Accession no.622482
Item 223
Journal of Composite Materials
31, No.1, 1997, p.22-51
INTELLIGENT CURING OF THICK
COMPOSITES USING A KNOWLEDGE-BASED
SYSTEM
Pillai V; Beris A N; Dhurjati P
Delaware,University
The model-based optimisation of and the optimal
operation of the autoclave curing of thick fibre-reinforced
thermosetting matrix composites were investigated. A
flexible heuristic optimisation method coupled with a
good simulation of the process was used to determine
how the process should proceed, given specific objectives
to be realised. A trend analysis technique was used to
create a knowledge base for a knowledge-based system
which implemented event-based control of the autoclave.
The objective of the real time control was to guide the
process through a desired trajectory. 39 refs.
USA
Accession no.622480
Item 224
SPI Composite Institute 51st Annual Conference.
Conference proceedings.
Cincinnati, Oh., 5th-7th Feb.1996. Paper 21-D. 627
PROCESSING INSTRUMENT TECHNOLOGY:
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
PROCESS DEFINITION WITH COGNITIVE
COMPUTER
Price H L
Wilkes University
(SPI,Composites Institute)
Processing instrument technology is reported to enable a
computer to sense and interpret changes taking place
during the cure of prepreg or moulding compound. P/I
technology has been used to make estimates of gel time
and cure time, thermal diffusivity measurements and
transition temperature measurements. Control and sensing
software is comparatively straightforward. The
interpretation of results with appropriate software is under
development. 5 refs.
USA
Accession no.621961
Item 225
Journal of Advanced Materials
28, No. 1, Oct.1996, p.42-47
PHOTO DYNAMIC MECHANICAL ANALYSIS
FOR CURE MONITORING OF FIBER
REINFORCED PHOTORESIN COMPOSITES
Renault T; Ogale A A
Clemson,University
The use of photo dynamic mechanical analysis (photo
DMA) for cure monitoring of fibre reinforced photoresin
composites is discussed and compared with existing
techniques for such measurements. The influence of glass,
quartz, and carbon fibres on the photocure of polyacrylate
resins was determined by the photo DMA technique. Glass
and quartz fibres were found to have no detectable effect
on the cure kinetics of photoresins, but carbon fibres were
found to inhibit the cure significantly. A static and
dynamic FEA were used to calculate the modulus of the
cured composite from the results. 24 refs.
USA
Accession no.620020
Item 226
Kunststoffe Plast Europe
86, No.11, Nov.1996, p.17-8
DETERMINING THE DEGREE OF CURE OF
REACTIVE RESINS
Pflaum K
The quality of fibre-reinforced polyester and vinyl ester
resins depends heavily on the resin matrix. Consequently,
the degree of cure and the properties of the resin make a
decisive contribution to the thermal resistance, mechanical
properties and the chemical resistance of the fibre-matrix
laminate. The degree of cure, in turn, is dependent on the
curing conditions and the progress of the curing reaction,
and may also be influenced by the duration of post-curing
at elevated temperatures. Different methods are employed
in practice to determine the degree of cure, each of which
75
 References and Abstracts
tests a different material property. A comparison of the
various techniques - gas chromatographic analysis,
differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical
analysis, tensile tests, flexural creep tests and dielectric
analysis - is presented.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.616972
Item 227
Antec 96. Vol.I. Conference Proceedings.
Indianapolis, 5th-10th May 1996, p.1182-6. 012
ULTRASONIC TECHNIQUE FOR MONITORING
THE INTERFACE IN MULTI-LAYER POLYMER
FLOWS
Magda J J; Parrott M L; Thomas C L; Lawson D R
Utah,University; 3M Corp.
(SPE)
An ultrasonic sensing technique for detecting interfaces
and measuring the thickness of layers occurring in multi-
layer polymer flows is described. Preliminary experiments
were undertaken to evaluate the sensitivity of an ultrasonic
pulse to interfaces between acoustically similar but
immiscible fluids. A simple room temperature flow cell
simulating conditions during coextrusion or coinjection
moulding and fitted with an ultrasonic transducer
demonstrated the ability of this technique to detect
interfaces and measure layer thicknesses in stratified
polymer flows. Application of the technique to practical
industrial processes was investigated in a laboratory
experiment using a coinjection moulded sample. 9 refs.
USA
Accession no.609256
Item 228
Modern Plastics International
26, No.11, Nov.1996, p.83-6
THERMOSET MOULDING AIDS IMPROVE
PROCESS EFFICIENCY
Nunnery L
Bulk Molding Compounds Inc.
Injection moulding is a process that dominates high-
volume thermoset part production. The number of
thermoset parts produced by the process should increase
even more as a result of the cost-effective benefits gained
from the use of cold runners, gate cutters, dielectric
analysis and transducers. The cold runner manifold
eliminates scrap runners. Gate cutters are in-mould blades
which engage before the thermoset material has had an
opportunity to cure. Dielectric analysis accurately
monitors the rate and degree of cure of thermosets.
Transducers allow precise control of mould pressure,
which reduces scrap rates, eliminates land flash and
preserves in-mould detail.
USA
Accession no.608965
76
Item 229
Polymer
37, No.20, 1996, p.4519-28
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF TOUGH, HIGH
TEMPERATURE CARBON FIBRE
COMPOSITES FROM NOVEL
FUNCTIONALISED ARYL CYANATE ESTER
POLYMERS
Barton J M; Hamerton I; Jones J R; Stedman J C
UK,Defence Research Agency; Surrey,University
Carbon fibre prepreg tape was prepared from a range of
prepolymers comprising blends of propenyl-
functionalised cyanate ester(CE) oligomers with
commercial bismaleimide(BMI) monomers. Cured neat
resin plaques and carbon fibre composites were prepared
by autoclave moulding. Various blends of a commercial
BMI mixture, a CE and a comonomer with either allyl or
propenyl and cyanate pendant groups were prepared. DSC
data were used to monitor cure of neat resin, while DMTA
was used to assess cure cycles of composite materials by
the measurement of Tgs. Composite properties measured
by interlaminar shear strength, flexural strength,
compressive strength and Mode I fracture toughness. 14
refs.
USA
Accession no.608788
Item 230
Polymer International
41, No.2, Oct.1996, p.169-82
CURE MONITORING OF AEROSPACE EPOXY
RESINS AND PREPREGS BY FTIR EMISSION
SPECTROSCOPY
George G A; Cash G A; Rintoul L
Queensland,University of Technology
The cure chemistry and kinetics of high performance
aerospace carbon fibre-reinforced epoxy resin prepregs
were examined by studying the spectral analysis of the
IR radiation emitted from thin films of resin. 36 refs.
AUSTRALIA
Accession no.608503
Item 231
Macromolecules
29, No.16, 29th July 1996, p.5368-74
RHEOLOGY AND PHOTO-CROSS-LINKING OF
THIOL-ENE POLYMERS
Chion B S; English R J; Khan S A
North Carolina,State University
A dynamic rheological technique, Fourier transform
mechanical spectroscopy, was used to monitor in real time
the evolving rheological properties during UV
crosslinking of two thiol-ene systems. These systems
comprised a trifunctional thiol (trimethylolpropane tris(2-
mercaptoacetate)) together with a trifunctional allyl
monomer (triallyl isocyanurate) and a tetrafunctional thiol
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
(pentaerythritol tetrakis(2-mercaptoacetate)) with the
same allyl monomer. Fourier transform mechanical
spectroscopy, in conjunction with specially designed
quartz plates, provided an in situ method to elucidate the
effects of temperature and monomer functionality on the
photoinitiated polymerisation of these systems. The
tetrafunctional thiol system crosslinked faster than the
trifunctional thiol system and the rate of crosslinking
increased with temperature. The Winter-Chambon
criterion was applied to determine the gel point and the
two parameters which characterise the material at its gel
point, the gel stiffness and the relaxation exponent. From
the temperature dependence of the gel times, apparent
activation energies of 6.6 and 14 kcal/mol were calculated
for the tri- and tetrafunctional thiol systems, respectively.
Possible relevance to adhesives for optical bonding and
conformal coatings is suggested. 22 refs.
USA
Accession no.607252
Item 232
Antec 96. Volume II. Conference proceedings.
Indianapolis, 5th-10th May 1996, p.2484-8. 012
NEUROCLAVE: NEURAL NETWORK BASED
INTELLIGENT CONTROL OF THE
AUTOCLAVE CURE PROCESS
Albin D C; Coulter J P; Li X; Altan M C
Lehigh University; Oklahoma,University
(SPE)
A real-time intelligent controller for the autoclave cure
process was developed utilising the rapid predicting
capabilities of artificial neural networks. The controller
compensates for unexpected occurrences and prepreg
variation, leading to higher final part quality than from
cure cycles determined off-line. The present controller
improves upon previous real-time controllers by making
fewer assumptions about the autoclave cure process, and
utilising the more descriptive parameters of degree of cure,
degree of compaction, and viscosity, measurable through
ultrasonic techniques. 8 refs.
USA
Accession no.606552
Item 233
Antec 96. Vol.I. Conference Proceedings.
Indianapolis, 5th-10th May 1996, p.792-6. 012
UNIFIED APPROACH TO MODELLING FLOW
AND HEAT TRANSFER IN MOULD CAVITIES
Chan A W; Morgan R J
Michigan,State University
(SPE)
A unified approach is proposed for modelling flow and
heat transfer in mould cavities in thermoplastic injection
moulding and liquid composite moulding. The transport
equations for both processes share important similarities
in terms of the computational approach for mould filling
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
in thin, shell-like cavities with three-dimensional shapes
and features. The numerical algorithm for solving the
transport model is based on the use of the control volume
finite element method, providing a simple scheme for flow
front tracking during mould filling. An example is
presented to illustrate the use of this approach in modelling
mould filling and in-situ cure in the structural reaction
injection moulding of a glass fibre-reinforced composite.
11 refs.
USA
Accession no.606420
Item 234
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
15, No.9, Sept.1996, p.922-43
USE OF EVANESCENT WAVE FLUORESCENCE
SPECTROSCOPY FOR CONTROL OF THE
LIQUID MOULDING PROCESS
Woerdeman D L; Flynn K M; Dunkers J P; Parnas R S
Johns Hopkins University; US,National Inst.of
Standards & Technology
A cure monitoring sensor for liquid composite moulding
was developed on the basis of an evanescent wave
fluorescence measurement performed with an optical fibre
embedded in the preform. The optical fibre was similar
in cost to standard glass optical fibre, but the addition of
a small amount of lead oxide raised the refractive index
above that of the resins, permitting evanescent wave
sensing. Evanescent wave sensing allowed the
measurement to be obtained within an approximately 1
micrometer radius of the fibre surface, providing a
measurement of resin cure that was most appropriate for
predicting final part properties. The moulding system used
to make the parts with the embedded optical fibre was
designed to permit the use of the fluorescence signal in a
hierarchical control strategy. The control scheme was
designed to regulate the chemical cure cycle by using the
cure sensor and a cure model to supervise the base-level
temp. control loop. 36 refs.
USA
Accession no.605737
Item 235
Journal of Composite Materials
30, No.13, 1996, p.1436-57
MEASUREMENT OF THE DEGREE OF CURE
OF CARBON FIBRE-EPOXY COMPOSITE
MATERIALS
Jin Soo Kim; Dai Gil Lee
Korea,Advanced Institute of Science & Technology
A dielectric cure monitoring system which consisted of an
electric circuit, a sensor and a personal computer was
developed to monitor on-line the dielectric properties of
carbon fibre-epoxy composite materials. A kinetic model
of carbon fibre-epoxy composite materials was also
developed, involving curve fitting of the DSC data. The
77
 References and Abstracts
start and end points of cure and the relationship between
the dissipation factor and the degree of cure were obtained
by comparing the dissipation factor from the dielectric
properties with the degree of cure from the DSC data. The
relationship between the dissipation factor and the degree
of cure was tested under various temp. profiles. 18 refs.
KOREA
Accession no.605719
Item 236
Smart Materials & Structures
5, No.4, Aug.1996, p.415-28
IN SITU CURE MONITORING OF EPOXY
RESINS USING OPTICAL FIBRE SENSORS
Crosby P A; Powell G R; Fernando G F; France C M;
Spooncer R C; Waters D N
Brunel University
A comparative study is presented of in situ cure
monitoring of epoxy resins by evanescent wave
spectroscopy, refractive index change and near-IR
spectroscopy. Results obtained from the optical fibre
sensor experiments were used to model cure kinetics of
the resin system. 28 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.605146
Item 237
Biomaterials
17, No.16, 1996, p.1615-9
IN SITU ANALYSIS OF THE DEGREE OF
POLYMERISATION OF BONE CEMENT BY
USING FT-RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY
Rehmann I; Harper E J; Bonfield W
London,University
A method is described for the in situ analysis of the degree
of polymerisation of bone cement. Fourier transform
Raman spectroscopy was used to investigate the degree
of polymerisation of a novel polyethyl methacrylate-based
bone cement in situ, and the results compared with thermal
profiles obtained for polymerisation. 12 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.602613
Item 238
Applied Spectroscopy
50, No.7, July 1996, p.900-5
IN SITU NEAR-IR CURE MONITORING OF A
MODEL EPOXY MATRIX COMPOSITE
Cossins S; Connell M; Cross B; Winter R; Kellar J
South Dakota,School of Mines & Technology
The curing of an epoxy resin adjacent to an embedded
silica optical fibre was monitored in situ by evanescent
wave spectroscopy. The epoxy resin was partially
78
fluorinated and had a lower refractive index than the silica
fibre. The lower refractive index of the epoxy resin
allowed the silica optical fibre to be used as a waveguide
for the internal reflection of the near-IR light. The epoxy
resin curing was determined as a function of time and
temp. by analysis of the near-IR spectrum from the epoxy
adjacent to the fibre obtained by the interaction of the
evanescent wave that occurred at each internal reflection
with the low refractive index epoxy resin. The results
obtained showed that epoxy ring-opening and crosslinking
reactions could be followed in real time. Treatment of
the fibre with a silane coupling agent had no observable
effect on the curing reaction of the epoxy resin. 27 refs.
USA
Accession no.600870
Item 239
Composites Plastiques Renforces Fibres de Verre
Textile
No.8, March/April 1995, p.104-13
French; German
QUALITY CONTROL AND ADVANCED
DIAGNOSTICS FOR PRESSES AND
AUTOMATED LINES FOR THE PROCESSING
OF REINFORCED THERMOPLASTICS AND
SMC MOULDING
Ernst H; Therolf D
Dieffenbacher GmbH & Co.
A completely automatic line for the moulding of glass
mat reinforced thermoplastics is described, with particular
reference to its quality control and fault diagnosis
capabilities.
INSTITUT FUER VERBUNDWERKSTOFFE GMBH
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.595305
Item 240
High Performance Polymers
8, No.2, June 1996, p.301-5
NOVEL EPOXY RESIN. II.
Patel K D
VP & RPTP Science College
A novel epoxy resin, namely diglycidyl ether of
dihydroxyacetophenone was prepared and characterised.
Curing was studied kinetically by DSC and characterised
by IR spectroscopy and TGA. Glass fibre-reinforced
composites were also prepared and characterised. 6 refs.
INDIA
Accession no.594026
Item 241
International Journal of Adhesion & Adhesives
16, No.3, 1996, p.165-72
ACOUSTIC MONITORING OF COLD-SETTING
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
ADHESIVE CURING IN WOOD LAMINATES
Biernacki J M; Beall F C
California,University
An ultrasonic method as a means of monitoring bonding
processes and assessing the quality of cured bonds in
wood laminates was investigated. The effects of curing
phases and bond types on ultrasonic transmission were
studied. Acoustic measurements were supplemented with
destructive cure monitoring, gel time measurement and
microscopic examination. Adhesives used were a
resorcinol resin and an epoxy resin. 9 refs.
USA
Accession no.593674
Item 242
ICAC 95. 4th International Conference on Automated
Composites: Volume 2. Conference proceedings.
Nottingham, 6th-7th Sept.1995, p.537-44. 627
RAPID PROCESSING AND COMPUTER
CONTROLLED PRODUCTION OF LIQUID
THERMOSET CASTINGS
Mount G R
Bright R.F.,Enterprises Ltd.
(Institute of Materials; Institution of Mechanical
Engineers; Nottingham,University; SAMPE,European
Chapter)
Current thermoset processing developments are examined
in some detail. Low cost rapid thermoset machine
processing with precise computer control and monitoring
and accurate storage of data are discussed.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.593574
Item 243
ICAC 95. 4th International Conference on Automated
Composites: Volume 2. Conference proceedings.
Nottingham, 6th-7th Sept.1995, p.315-22. 627
EVANESCENT WAVE OPTICAL FIBRE
SENSORS FOR MONITORING AND CONTROL
OF THE LIQUID MOULDING PROCESS
Woerdeman D L; Flynn K M; Parnas R S
Johns Hopkins University; US,National Inst.of
Standards & Technology
(Institute of Materials; Institution of Mechanical Engineers;
Nottingham,University; SAMPE,European Chapter)
Information is presented in some detail on the development
of an optical fibre, evanescent wave, fluorescence sensor
for use during liquid composite moulding. Real-time liquid
moulding experiments with the highly refractive glass fibre
embedded in the preform were described and results were
presented. Fluorescence was monitored during the curing
of a commercial grade epoxy system which was said to be
injected with a low concentration of fluorescent dye. 19 refs.
USA
Accession no.593560
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 244
Polymer
37, No.9, 1996, p.1691-6
PRODUCTION OF CONTROLLED NETWORKS
AND MORPHOLOGIES IN TOUGHENED
THERMOSETTING RESINS USING REAL TIME,
IN SITU CURE MONITORING
Brown J M; Srinivasan S; Rau A; Ward T C; McGrath J E;
Loos A C; Hood D; Kranbeuhl D E
Hughes Missile Systems Co.; Virginia,Polytechnic
Institute & State University; Williamsburg,College of
William & Mary
Based on knowledge of the chemical reactions and
morphology, significant changes can be made in the
morphology of a toughened dicyanate thermosetting resin
through the intelligent manipulation of the cure cycle and
real-time knowledge of the conversion of the system.
Fourier transform near-IR spectroscopy using fibre-optic
sensors was employed to follow such reactions. Various
cure cycle changes resulted in similar degree of cure,
thermal stability and solvent resistance, but yielded a 20%
change in neat resin toughness associated with the
morphologies. The morphological variety was shown not
only to occur within reasonable cure cycle variations for
neat resin, but were also induced through a processing
change in a graphite-reinforced composite containing this
resin. Design of custom or gradient morphologies to
provide specific mechanical properties is now feasible
with this technology. These same approaches could be
adapted to the custom manufacture of optical and/or
damping properties. This manipulation is not limited to
the processing of toughened thermosetting resins such as
the dicyanate of bisphenol A toughened with hydroxyl-
terminated polyether sulphone used here. 35 refs.
USA
Accession no.592668
Item 245
Emerging Technologies Retec 95. Conference
proceedings.
Erie, Pa., 9th-10th Aug.1995, paper 7. 8
APPLICATIONS OF DIELECTRIC ANALYSIS
FOR CURE MONITORING AND CONTROL IN
THE POLYESTER SMC/BMC MOULDING
INDUSTRY
Shepard D D; Craven K J
Micromet Instruments Inc.
(SPE,Northwestern Pennsylvania Section; Penn State
Erie,Behrend College Plastics Technology Deployment
Center; US,National Tooling & Machining Assn.)
Dielectric analysis is routinely used for monitoring the
cure of thermosets. Implantable, disposable sensors allow
measurements of the curing process to be made in various
locations throughout a part. Permanent, reusable sensors
flush mounted in the mould allow the measurements to
be made automatically during each moulding cycle. The
curing rate through the cross-section of SMC parts of
79
 References and Abstracts
thicknesses up to 0.75 inch is examined. The effect of
ageing temperature on the reactivity of BMC demonstrates
the use of dielectric analysis as a QA/QC test. Finally, it
is shown that overall cycle times can be reduced by real
time identification of the part-to-part variability in cure
times during production moulding. This allows closed-
loop feedback to the press controller as to the proper time
to demould each part. 8 refs.
USA
Accession no.591696
Item 246
Plastics Technology
42, No.5, May 1996, p.27/35
LATEST EQUIPMENT HELPS CUT COSTS FOR
FRP PROCESSORS
Naitove M H
A review is presented of equipment for use by FRP
processors which are either designed to minimise initial
capital investment, or help reduce overall processing costs
through savings of time, labour or raw materials. The
equipment was on display at the SPI Composites Annual
Conference and Expo, and offered such examples as new
SMC presses that clamp with the force of vacuum alone,
and hydraulic presses that have been re-engineered to
reduce costs whilst retaining high tech features. Also
reviewed are in-mould cure sensors which require less
tool modification, new pultrusion equipment which offers
the advantages of resin injection without its extra costs,
and also spray-up equipmment, which has been
redesigned to add flexibility while minimising costs.
USA
Accession no.591079
Item 247
Reinforced Plastics
40, No.5, May 1996, p.21
ULTRASONIC SENSOR MONITORS VISCOSITY
AND CURE
Micromet Instruments is introducing a non-intrusive
ultrasonic cure monitor, capable of withstanding
temperatures up to 260C. The sensor provides a bulk
measurement of ultrasonic speed through the material
being processed. This ultrasonic speed can be correlated
to changes in materials viscosity and state of cure. The
system is currently being evaluated by Pratt & Whitney
for use in controlling the manufacture of composite parts.
The company has also developed a dielectric sensor
designed with a high temperature capability, which can
characterise cure and diffusion properties of films,
coatings and resins with thicknesses down to 25um.
MICROMET INSTRUMENTS INC.
USA
Accession no.589610
80
Item 248
Advanced Composites Bulletin
April 1996, p.7-8
DIELECTRIC SENSOR PROVIDES HIGH
TEMPERATURE CURE MONITORING
Two sensors for cure characterisation are introduced by
Micromet Instruments Inc. The MS-25 is a dielectric
sensor developed with a high temperature capability and
designed to characterise cure properties of thin specimens.
The UCMS is an ultrasonic system for cure monitoring,
produced using technology licenced from the National
Center for Manufacturing Sciences.
MICROMET INSTRUMENTS INC.
USA
Accession no.585429
Item 249
Plastics Engineering
51, No.10, Oct.1995, p.25-7
CURE MONITORING IN RTM USING
FLUORESCENCE
Woerdeman D L; Parnas R S
Johns Hopkins University; US,National Inst.of
Standards & Technology
A leaded-glass-fibre sensor with a high refractive index
has been developed, permitting evanescent wave
monitoring of epoxy resins. The technique allows
measurements to be obtained at specific locations within
the mould and has the potential to monitor characteristics
such as cure, wetting, and mechanical properties in several
regions near the surface of a single fibre. The fluorescence
behaviour of the resin/dye system was characterised and
correlated with infrared cure data. 8 refs.
USA
Accession no.585105
Item 250
Euradh 94. Conference Proceedings.
Mulhouse, 12th-15th Sept.1994, p.213-7. 9(12)4
CHEMISTRY AND APPLICATIONS OF UV-
CURED ADHESIVES
Hatton K B; Moss N S; Smith T J; Thompson S J
Ciba Polymers
(Societe Francaise du Vide; Institute of Materials;
Dechema Institut)
The chemistry of UV curable adhesives is outlined, together
with examples of their applications. Typical UV formulations
are based on the free radical polymerisation of acrylate or
methacrylate monomers and cationic polymerisation of
epoxy resins. These reactions are discussed. All can be
formulated to give a particular speed of cure, viscosity or
thixotropy, depending on the substrate and the application.
Dual curing systems are also discussed. 9 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.584843
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Item 251
Applied Spectroscopy
50, No.3, March 1996, p.382-7
NOVEL IN-SITU PROBE FOR MONITORING
POLYMER CURING
Aust J F; Booksh K S; Myrick M L
South Carolina,University
A novel probe design for in-situ fibre optic Raman
spectroscopy was tested and used for real-time monitoring
of an epoxy resin curing system consisting of diglycidyl
ether of bisphenol A and polyoxypropylenetriamine. The
probe consists of a single fibre optic and a small section
of Teflon tubing. The tube acts as a waveguide and sample
holder. 20 refs.
USA
Accession no.584713
Item 252
Advanced Materials Newsletter
18, No.5, 11th March 1996, p.1
FIBRE OPTIC SENSOR TECHNOLOGY TAKES
THE LABORATORY TO THE PROCESS
A “smart” process control system, developed at the
Southwest Research Institute, could eliminate the need for
transferring samples manually from the ongoing process
to the laboratory for analysis. The group has developed
useful models that capture the key aspects of the chemistry
and physics of the polymer’s transformation. A laser fibre-
optic light scattering device was employed to perform
remote, in situ physico-chemical analysis of PMR-15
polyimide resin under actual cure conditions. Under
artificial intelligence control, the model is run in real time
in a way that enables it to predict the degree of imidisation
as a function of temperature and time.
SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
USA
Accession no.584470
Item 253
SPI Composite Institute 50th Annual Conference.
Conference Proceedings.
Cincinnati, Oh., 30th Jan-1st Feb.1995, paper 7E. 627
INTENSITY-BASED FIBRE OPTIC SENSOR FOR
IN-SITU CURE MONITORING
Klosterman D A; Saliba T E
Dayton,University
(SPI,Composites Institute)
The development of an embeddable fibre optic sensor for
process monitoring in polymer composites is presented.
Changes in the total transmitted intensity of the optical
signal were used to follow changes in the resin refractive
index. For the cure of a common epoxy resin (Hercules
3501-6) the resin refractive index was related to the degree
of cure and resin temperature. The results demonstrate
the utility of the sensor for monitoring cure in thermoset
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
resins. The sensor signal correlates well with resin
viscosity. Other applications of the sensor are further
discussed. 16 refs.
USA
Accession no.582954
Item 254
ICAC 95. 4th International Conference on Automated
Composites: Volume 1. Conference proceedings.
Nottingham, 6th-7th Sept.1995, p.79-86. 627
MONITORING CURE IN COMPOSITE
STRUCTURES
Maistros G M; Antonsen G A; Partridge I K;
Cranfield,University; Short Bros.plc
(Institute of Materials; Institution of Mechanical
Engineers; Nottingham,University; SAMPE,European
Chapter)
The initial results of a study of temperature distributions
and cure rate variations in mini-demonstrator thermoset
matrix composite structures during the course of autoclave
cure are reported. The temperature profiles are mapped
out using multiple thermocouples and the state of resin
cure is followed by dynamic dielectrical analysis (DDA).
By using embedded microelectrodes connected to an
impedance analyser and a microprocessor, it is possible
to identify the crucial stages of maximum resin flow, resin
gelation and to predict resin vitrification in real time. The
results can thus be used to compare the rates of cure
between different matrix resins, under given cure
conditions, or between different regions in one composite
structure. The practical problems associated with the
transfer of this monitoring technology from the laboratory
to the production line are addressed. 8 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.582902
Item 255
Advanced Materials Newsletter
18, No.4, 26th Feb.1996,p.2/5
MICROMET EXTENDS ITS LINE OF PROCESS
MONITORING SYSTEMS
Several new products have been introduced by Micromet
Instruments for use in characterising resin and composite
cure conditions and diffusion properties of coatings and
films. Brief product descriptions are given of the MS-25
dielectric sensor for use in high temperature processes
for monitoring the cure process; the MS-05, designed use
with thin, 5 micron thick or thicker layers at operating
temperatures of 150-200C, and an ultrasonic cure
monitoring system the UCMS-200.
MICROMET INSTRUMENTS INC.
USA
Accession no.582230
81
 References and Abstracts
Item 256
Antec 95. Vol.II. Conference Proceedings.
Boston, Ma., 7th-11th May 1995, p.2816-9. 012
UV REFLECTION SPECTROSCOPY FOR IN-
SITU POLYMER REACTION MONITORING
USING BIFURCATED OPTICAL FIBRE
Paik H J; Hestermann D K; Sung N H
Tufts University
(SPE)
The in-situ monitoring of polymer reactions by UV
reflection spectroscopy using a bifurcated multi-fibre
optical probe is discussed. Results are presented of studies
of cure reactions in epoxy resins and polyimides. The
effects of surface roughness on signal intensity due to
scattering are examined by reference to studies of
polyimide prepregs. 7 refs.
USA
Accession no.576620
Item 257
Antec 95. Vol.II. Conference Proceedings.
Boston, Ma., 7th-11th May 1995, p.2805-11. 012
CURE MONITORING WITH AN EVANESCENT
WAVE FLUORESCENCE SENSOR
Woerdeman D L; Parnas R S
Johns Hopkins University; US,National Inst.of
Standards & Technology
(SPE)
The cure of epoxy resins in fibre-reinforced preforms was
monitored by evanescent wave fluorescence sensing using
a high refractive index optical fibre sensor and a zwitterion
and dimethylaminonitrostilbene as fluorescent dyes. The
fluorescence signal was correlated with resin cure by
comparison with IR spectra collected at several
temperatures. 17 refs.
USA
Accession no.576618
Item 258
Antec 95. Vol.II. Conference Proceedings.
Boston, Ma., 7th-11th May 1995, p.2761-5. 012
CURE STUDIES OF A CYANATE ESTER RESIN
AND PREPREG
Zukas W X; Varnum J T
US,Army Research Laboratory
(SPE)
The cure behaviour of a cyanate ester resin and its
corresponding graphite fibre prepreg was investigated by
DSC. Dynamic scans and various cure cycles were
employed for the determination of optimum cure
conditions. Differences in the cure behaviour of the resin
and prepreg were partially attributed to the presence of
fibres in the prepreg. High cure temperatures were found
to decrease the Tg, especially for prepreg samples. 5 refs.
USA
Accession no.576611
82
Item 259
Antec 95. Vol.II. Conference Proceedings.
Boston, Ma., 7th-11th May 1995, p.2437-41. 012
COMPOSITE INTERPHASE STUDY BY
EVANESCENT FIBRE OPTIC FLUORESCENCE
Fuchs A; Sung N H
Tufts University
(SPE)
In-situ studies of curing reactions in an epoxy resin/
diaminodiphenylsulphone system at the glass fibre/resin
interface were conducted by fluorescence spectroscopy
with evanescent wave probing using a sapphire optic fibre.
The cure reaction was followed by diaminoazobenzene
as extrinsic fluorophore, and sulphorhodamine was used
as the internal reference dye to normalise the fluorescence
intensity for quantitative analysis. The results indicated
different cure kinetics and final extent of amine cure
reaction between the bulk and interphase cure regions.
16 refs.
USA
Accession no.571344
Item 260
SPI Composite Institute 49th Annual Conference.
Conference Proceedings.
Cincinnati, Oh., 7th-10th Feb.1994, paper 18-D. 627
APPLICATIONS OF DIELECTRIC ANALYSIS
FOR CURE MONITORING AND CONTROL IN
THE POLYESTER SMC/BMC MOULDING
INDUSTRY
Shepard D D; Craven K J
Micromet Instruments Inc.
(SPI,Composites Institute)
Dielectric analysis is routinely used for monitoring the
cure of thermosetting resins. Implantable, disposable
sensors allows measurements of the curing process to be
made in various locations throughout a part. Permanent,
reusable sensors flush mounted in the mould allow the
measurements to be made automatically during each
moulding cycle. Development, quality assurance/quality
control and production control in the polyester SMC/BMC
industry are discussed. The curing rate through the cross-
section of SMC parts of thickness up to 0.75 in. is
examined. The effect of ageing temperature on the
reactivity of BMC demonstrates the use of dielectric
analysis as a quality assurance/quality control test. Finally,
it is shown that overall cycle times can be reduced by
real time identification of the part-to-part variability in
cure times during production moulding. This allows
closed-loop feedback to the press controller as to the
proper time to demould each part. 8 refs.
USA
Accession no.568749
Item 261
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
58, No.10, 5th Dec.1995, p.1689-700
DIFFERENTIAL SCANNING AND DYNAMIC
MECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF AMINE-
MODIFIED UREA-FORMALDEHYDE
ADHESIVE
Ebewele R O
Ahmadu Bello,University
The object of this study was to clarify the physical and
morphological factors responsible for the improved
performance with modified adhesives using DSC to
determine relative cure reaction rates and dynamic
mechanical analysis to determine changes in storage and
loss moduli during cure. 21 refs.
NIGERIA
Accession no.568015
Item 262
Journal of Adhesion
52, Nos.1-4, 1995, p.149-66
EFFECT OF ADHERENDS ON THE CURING OF
AN EPOXY ADHESIVE
Chu F D J; Robertson R E
Michigan,University
The effect of E-glass, cured vinyl ester resin and silica
gel on the curing of an epoxy-anhydride adhesive was
examined using calorimetry in both isothermal and
scanning modes and FTIR spectroscopy in the ATR mode.
Isothermal calorimetry was used to obtain the exotherm,
conversion rate and curing kinetic parameters and
scanning calorimetry was used to obtain the Tg. ATR-
FTIR was used to study the curing kinetics and chemistry
of the adhesive. The results suggested either the
immobilisation of a layer of the epoxy adhesive adjacent
to inert solid surfaces or selective adsorption of the
accelerator or both, each of which suppressed the cure
reaction. This was reversed by the presence of adsorbed
water. At least for the epoxy-anhydride system studied,
adsorbed water seemed to have the beneficial effect of
increasing the crosslink density in the interfacial region
between the adhesive and adherend. Water also seemed
to change the overall cure reaction, causing more ether
formation and less ester formation than without water.
38 refs.
USA
Accession no.564603
Item 263
Thermoset Technology 95. Retec Proceedings.
Research Triangle Park, NC, 13th-15th March 1995,
paper 6, pp.21. 012
USE OF DIELECTRIC CURE TECHNIQUES TO
DETERMINE THERMOSET MOULDING
COMPOUND VARIABILITY
Horn S W
CYTEC Industries Inc.
(SPE,Piedmont Coastal Section; SPE,Thermoset Div.)
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
The determination of thermoset moulding compound
variability by the dielectric cure analysis system (CDCA)
is discussed in some detail in this paper. A comparison is
made between the CDCA tests and conventional quality
control tests. 6 refs.
USA
Accession no.564540
Item 264
Polymer International
38, No.2, Oct.1995, p.183-9
CURING OF NOVOLAC-LIGNOCELLULOSIC
COMPOSITES
Simitzis J; Karagiannis K; Zoumpoulakis L
Athens,National Technical University
Novolac resin with hexamethylenetetramine was cured
with biomass or Kraft lignin or hydroxymethylated Kraft
lignin or cellulose. The agricultural/industrial by-product
of olive stones was used as biomass. Kraft lignin,
hydroxymethylated Kraft lignin and cellulose were
isolated from the biomass. The cure was followed by DSC
and IR spectroscopy. Generally, the cure of all materials
was a first order reaction, indicating that the cure
mechanism of novolac remains the same. 42 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GREECE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.564204
Item 265
Plastics News(USA)
7, No.26, 28th Aug.1995, p.8
DIELECTRIC MONITORS FIND FAVOUR IN
AEROSPACE
Renstrom R
Developments in the use of dielectric monitors to shorten
the resin cure cycles and reduce autoclave, press and oven
processing costs, are reviewed, with particular emphasis
on the use of the technique in the processing of advanced
composites for aerospace applications.
USA
Accession no.564098
Item 266
Applied Spectroscopy
49, No.9, Sept.1995, p.1225-31
NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION OF
GRAPHITE-EPOXY COMPOSITES FOR HEAT
DAMAGE USING LASER-INDUCED
FLUORESCENCE
Fisher W G; Storey J M E; Sharp S L; Janke C J;
Wachter E A
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Laser-induced fluorescence was applied to the non-
destructive inspection of graphite fibre-reinforced polymer-
matrix composites. On curing, the epoxy resin in these
83
 References and Abstracts
materials formed a highly crosslinked network of aromatic
sub-units. This yielded a material with significant
absorptivity from the UV through the near-IR and a
fluorescence bandwidth covering 200 to 300 nm. When
subjected to temps. beyond the recommended upper service
temp., these materials experienced thermally-induced
degradation and a reduction in mechanical strength.
Furthermore, these heat-damaged materials exhibited
significant changes in fluorescence intensity and in the
wavelength of maximum fluorescence intensity. These
spectroscopic changes could be correlated with the extent
of heat damage. An imaging approach was developed to
monitor these fluorescence signatures, allowing rapid non-
destructive inspection of large surface areas. This capability
provided qualitative and quantitative information about the
location and severity of damage. 8 refs.
USA
Accession no.563421
Item 267
Advanced Composites Bulletin
Sept.1995, p.8
PROCESS MONITORING OF GLASS FIBRE
SPRAY OPERATIONS
A system has been developed by Matrasur for the
continuous monitoring of processes such as the spray-up
of glass fibre composite parts. Brief details are given of
the system which uses optical fibres and pneumatics,
incorporates a digital readout, and measures the quantity
of resin and fibre deposited layer by layer.
MATRASUR
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.561969
Item 268
Advanced Materials Newsletter
17, No.15, 14th Aug. 1995, p.2
ULTRA-VIOLET AND FLUORESCENT
TECHNIQUES MONITOR POLYMER CURE
PROCESSES
Connecticut,University
Details are given of two methods developed at the
University of Connecticut for applying optical devices in
the characterisation of epoxies, polyimides,
polyurethanes, and other polymer systems. One method
is called the extrinsic reactive fluorophore approach, and
involves the addition of a compound that exhibits a
fluorescence of increasing intensity as cure proceeds, and
the other, called the intrinsic reactive fluorophore/
chemophore approach, measures the ultraviolet reflection.
USA
Accession no.560968
84
Item 269
International Journal of Polymeric Materials
29, Nos.3-4, 1995, p.221-6
NOVEL EPOXY RESIN. I.
Patel K D
VP & RPTP Science College
Novel epoxy resin, namely diglycidyl ether of 2,4-
dihydroxyacetophenone (DGE-RAP), was prepared and
characterised. The curing of DGE-RAP by various amines
was studied kinetically by DSC. The cured neat products
were characterised by IR spectral studies and TGA. Glass
reinforced composites based on these novel epoxy resin-
diamine system have also been prepared and
characterised. 6 refs.
INDIA
Accession no.558161
Item 270
Composites Plastiques Renforces Fibres de Verre
Textile
No.5, Sept/Oct.1994, p.30-5
French
APPLICATION OF THE PIEZOELECTRIC
METHOD TO THE CHARACTERISATION OF
THE FINAL CURING OF THERMOSETS
Saint-Pierre N; Jayet Y; Lee S H; Perrissin-Faber I;
Tatibouet J
INSA
A method for studying the development of the viscoelastic
properties of thermosets during cure and after post-curing
from the electric impedance of a ceramic piezoelectric
sensor is described. A non-linear optimisation algorithm
is used to extract from the measured impedance the
parameters characterising the mechanical properties of
the medium into which the sensor is inserted. Results are
presented for the application of this technique to a study
of the curing and post-curing of a glass fibre-reinforced
isophthalic unsaturated polyester resin. 4 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.555520
Item 271
Smart Materials & Structures
4, No.2, June 1995, p.118-25
PROCESSING MONITORING OF CARBON/
PHENOLIC COMPOSITES USING SMART
SENSORS
Lai L; Carman G; Chiou S; Kukuchek P; Echternach D
Los Angeles,University of Southern California; Rohr
Inc.
Details are given of the development of a technique to
monitor and collect sensor data during the curing process
of carbon fibre-reinforced phenolic resins.
Microdielectric, ultrasonic, thermopile, thermal couple,
and Extrinsic Fabry-Perot Interferometer sensors were
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
investigated as potential candidates to monitor and
subsequently control the manufacturing process of a
composite material. 11 refs.
USA
Accession no.554143
Item 272
Macromolecular Symposia
Vol.94, May 1995, p.273-82
APPLICATION OF FTIR SPECTROSCOPY TO
THE STUDY OF CURING OF GLASS
REINFORCED POLYESTER COMPOSITES
Matias M C; Larena A; de la Orden M U; Urreaga J M
Madrid,Universidad Politecnica
The effect of glass fibre reinforcements on the curing
behaviour of unsaturated polyester resins was investigated
by FTIR. Some additional complications found in the IR
analysis of curing are also discussed. 20 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.554098
Item 273
Macromolecular Symposia
Vol.94, May 1995, p.145-58
EPOXY RESIN AND EPOXY BLENDS STUDIED
BY NEAR IR SPECTROSCOPY
Chabert B; Lachenal G; Tung C V
Lyon,Universite
Near IR spectroscopy was used to study the cure reactions
of various epoxy resins cured with amine hardener.
Results are presented concerning hydrogen bonding
between epoxy and amine hardener before curing, epoxy
resins, glass fibre-reinforced epoxy resin composites, and
epoxy resin/polyether sulphone blends. 76 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.554087
Item 274
Composites Science & Technology
53, No.4, 1995, p.355-9
DIELECTRIC MONITORING OF CURE IN A
COMMERCIAL CARBON FIBRE COMPOSITE
Maistros G M; Partridge I K
Cranfield,University
The cure of CIBA’s Fibredux 924, based on carbon fibre
and a formulated epoxy resin matrix, was studied by
means of dynamic dielectric analysis with embedded
sensors. Rheological measurements and independent
characterisation of the kinetics of cure were first carried
out on the unreinforced matrix resin. These data enabled
the main physical transformations in the resin (gelation
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
and vitrification) to be assigned to particular features
observed in the dielectric response of the resin during
cure at 140, 150, 160 and 180C. With this information, it
was then possible to use in situ dielectric measurements
in a composite curing at 150C to identify both the time at
which the resin matrix underwent gelation, and to predict
the vitrification time whilst the cure was proceeding. A
theoretical model was used to extract the dipolar
relaxation data from the overall signal which, in this type
of complex commercial system, was dominated by ionic
conduction. 13 refs.
CIBA
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.553744
Item 275
Journal of Composite Materials
29, No.8, 1995, p.1000-24
MODEL BASED CONTROL OF VOIDS AND
PRODUCT THICKNESS DURING AUTOCLAVE
CURING OF CARBON/EPOXY COMPOSITE
LAMINATES
Joseph B; Hanratty F W; Kardos J L
St.Louis,Washington University
A novel feedback control strategy is presented for the
autoclave curing of carbon fibre-reinforced epoxy resin
laminates. The strategy uses an on-line model of the
process to control the quality by adjusting the cure cycle.
17 refs.
USA
Accession no.552039
Item 276
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
14, No.5, May 1995, p.495-512
THREE-DIMENSIONAL CHARACTERISATION
OF PULTRUDED FIBREGLASS-EPOXY
COMPOSITE MATERIALS
Chachad Y R; Roux J A; Vaughan J G; Arafat E
Mississippi,University; Rust College
This research involves a three-dimensional examination
of the temperature and thermochemical aspects for the
manufacturing of cartesian fibreglass-epoxy composite
materials. Comparison of the computer-generated
predictions were made with experimentally measured
temperature profiles and the degree of cure obtained using
DSC. A numerical model employing Patankar’s control
volume based finite difference technique was used for
solving the governing energy and species equations used
to model the entire heating (moving and non-moving)
sections of the pultruder. 10 refs.
USA
Accession no.551545
85
 References and Abstracts
Item 277
Polymer
36, No.9, 1995, p.1859-67
DETERMINATION OF EXTENT OF REACTION
IN DIMETHACRYLATE-BASED DENTAL
COMPOSITES USING SOLID STATE CARBON-
13 MAGIC ANGLE SPINNING NMR
SPECTROSCOPY AND COMPARISON WITH
FTIR SPECTROSCOPY
Heatley F; Pratsitsilp Y; McHugh N; Watts D C; Devlin H
Manchester,University
The instrumental conditions required for the
determination of the extent of reaction of dimethacrylate-
based dental composites were investigated. In the absence
of paramagnetic fillers, clearly resolved carbonyl
resonances for reacted and unreacted methacrylate groups
were observed. The two peaks showed considerably
different relaxation times using cross-polarisation
excitation, and accurate relative intensities could only be
obtained using direct excitation of the carbon-13 nuclei
with a pulse interval of at least 30s. Chemical shielding
anisotropy spinning sidebands were observed for the
reacted peak, but not for the unreacted. A spin-rate-
dependent centreband intensity correction factor to
account for this difference was evaluated using model
triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate materials. The
proportion of unreacted methacrylate groups determined
using NMR was essentially unaffected by spin rate,
dipolar decoupling field strength and temperature, but was
only about one-half that determined using IR
spectroscopy. The origin of the discrepancy is as yet
unclear. The four systems studied all included 2,2-bis(4-
(2-hydroxy-3-methacryloylpropoxy)phenyl)propane (bis-
GMA) and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate. 13 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.551493
Item 278
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
56, No.6, 9th May 1995, p.667-75
MONITORING OF LAMINATION PROCESSES
IN AN AUTOCLAVE WITH FIBRE-OPTIC
INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY
Zhengfang Ge; Brown C W; Brown M
Rhode Island,University; Digital Equipment Corp.
Curing reactions of certain laminates involve a series of
chemical structure changes which occur with increasing
temperature and/or pressure. This paper describes the use
of a mid-IR chalcogenide fibre to monitor the lamination
of polymer prepregs in an autoclave. The fibre optic was
used both as a wave guide and as a sensing element for
acquiring evanescent wave spectra. The spectra were
measured by embedding the fibre optic in a polymer
prepreg package. The polymer prepregs studied include
epoxy, polyimide, and bismaleimide triazine resins. The
degree of cure and an understanding of the kinetic
86
processes were obtained from the absorbance changes
specific bands. This in-situ sampling technique
demonstrates a new area of FTIR spectroscopy for
following the formation of polymeric bonds. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.550151
Item 279
Antec 94. Conference Proceedings.
San Francisco, Ca., 1st-5th May 1994, Vol.II, p.2322-8.
012
IN-SITU FDEMS SENSING AND MODEL
VERIFICATION OF RESIN POSITION,
VISCOSITY AND DEGREE OF CURE FOR
RESIN TRANSFER MOULDING OF TEXTILE
PREFORMS
Loss A C; Hammond V H; Kranbuehl D E; Hood D;
Mahoney S; Limburg W; Hasko G H
Virginia,Polytechnic Institute & State University;
William & Mary College; Lockheed Engineering &
Sciences Co.; US,NASA Langley Research Center
(SPE)
A frequency dependent electromagnetic sensing
(FDEMS) technique was developed for the in-situ
monitoring of resin position, viscosity and degree of cure
during the resin transfer moulding (RTM) infiltration and
cure process. A multi-dimensional RTM model was
developed to predict the infiltration behaviour, viscosity
and degree of cure of resin flowing in and curing in a dry
textile preform. Mould filling experiments conducted with
a reactive epoxy resin and carbon fabric preforms showed
good agreement between model predicted and sensor
measured infiltration patterns, viscosity and degree of cure
throughout the infiltration and cure process. 8 refs.
USA
Accession no.549456
Item 280
SAMPE Journal
31, No.2, March/April 1995, p.35-40
MOULD ENGINEERING AND MATERIALS. I.
Morena J J
American Composites Manufacturing Learning Center
A fundamental analysis approach is presented to the
engineering, materials and processes involved in advanced
composite mould and tool fabrication. Methods for
extending tool life are discussed, together with
determination of cure cycle and relative benefits of five
cure monitoring methods. Relative benefits of different
mouldmaking materials are compared, with emphasis on
moulds made with an epoxy matrix that is reinforced with
glass or carbon fibre and which may include a honeycomb
panel substructure. 1 ref.
USA
Accession no.549043
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Item 281
Journal of Materials Processing & Manufacturing
Science
3, No.3, Jan.1995, p.243-56
SENSOR FOR TAPE LAYING PROCESS
CONTROL: MODEL, VALIDATION AND CASE
STUDY
Beloy J; Mantell S C
Minnesota,University
The development of a lay-up thermal capacity sensor for
fibre-reinforced thermoplastic composite materials is
described. The sensor consists of a 100W cartridge heater
mounted between two optical pyrometers. The optical
pyrometers record the composite surface temp. before and
after the heater passes. The change in temp. indicates the
material’s ability to absorb heat at the current lay-up
speed. Experimental data indicate that the number of plies
as well as the tool plate geometry can affect sensor output.
These data are also in good agreement with model
predictions of sensor function. A case study relating sensor
output and tape laying head heat intensity required to reach
the melt temp. is presented. 18 refs.
USA
Accession no.548124
Item 282
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
14, No.3, March 1995, p.297-308
APPLICATIONS OF DIELECTRIC ANALYSIS
FOR CURE MONITORING AND CONTROL IN
THE POLYESTER SMC/BMC MOULDING
INDUSTRY
Shepard D D; Day D R; Craven K J
Micromet Instruments Inc.
Process development, quality assurance/quality
control(QA/QC) and production control in the polyester
SMC/BMC industry are considered. Results of studies of
the curing rate through the cross-section of SMC parts of
thicknesses up to 0.75 inch are discussed. The effect of
ageing temp. on the reactivity of BMC demonstrates the
use of dielectric analysis as a QA/QC test. Finally, it is
shown that overall cycle times can be reduced by real
time identification of the part-to-part variability in cure
times during production moulding. This allows closed-
loop feedback to the press controller as to the proper time
to demould each part. 8 refs.
USA
Accession no.547991
Item 283
Journal of Advanced Materials
26, No.2, Jan.1995, p.27-40
REMOTE RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY AS A
SENSOR TECHNOLOGY IN COMPOSITE
MATERIALS PROCESSING
Maguire J F; Talley P L
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Southwest Research Institute
The development and application of fibre-optic Raman
spectroscopy as a probe of the physicochemical properties
of composite materials are described. The construction
of a Fourier transform near-IR Raman spectrometer is
discussed, with special attention to the efficient
implementation of the use of fibre-optic sensors. This
instrument is interfaced with a processing autoclave and
permits the in-situ measurement of molecular vibrational
spectra over long (about 100 m) distances. Spectral
performance is assessed by measuring the Raman spectra
of a number of well-characterised organic species using
the fibre-optic sensor and by following the cure kinetics
of an epoxy resin. 39 refs.
USA
Accession no.547326
Item 284
Plastics Technology
41, No.2, Feb.1995, p.24-6
RTM RESEARCH TOOK CENTRE STAGE AT
COMPOSITES CONFERENCE
Gabriele M C
This comprehensive article reports on the International
Advanced Composites Conference in Michigan, at which
advances in on-line process control and in-mould cure
monitoring for RTM were featured topics. The article
supplies details of research projects aimed at developing
on-line process control methodology and fibre-optic
monitoring of cure in the mould.
USA
Accession no.546244
Item 285
Plastics and Rubber Weekly
No.1576, 10th March 1995, p.11
NPL GOES FOR AN ULTRASONIC CURE
National Physical Laboratory has been developing an
ultrasonic technique which can measure the changing
stiffness of a resin as it cures within the mould. The
ultrasonic measurements have so far concentrated on
thermoset processes where the state of cure is a limiting
factor on production rates. NPL says that successful on-
line measurements have been made in this area with the
monitoring of a compression moulding operation during
the processing of a polyester DMC. Other potential
benefits of ultrasonic cure measurements include
measurement of batch to batch material variations and
the observation of large changes in the level of cure with
thickness of the part.
UK,NATIONAL PHYSICAL LABORATORY
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.544160
87
 References and Abstracts

Item 286 blends containing 15 wt % carboxyl-terminated

Polymer Composites butadiene-acrylonitrile copolymer. 50 refs.
15, No.6, Dec.1994, p.464-73 EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERISATION OF A WESTERN EUROPE
NEW CLASS OF THERMOSETTING RESINS: Accession no.536779
ALLYL AND PROPARGYL SUBSTITUTED
CYCLOPENTADIENE DERIVATIVES
Item 289
Mathias L J; Muthiah J
Composites Plastiques Renforces Fibres de Verre
Southern Mississippi,University
Textile
A series of all-hydrocarbon resins was synthesised by No.3, May/June 1994, p.74-6
reacting cyclopentadiene with allyl chloride, propargyl MONITORING OF UNCURED EPOXY PREPREG
chloride, or a mixture of allyl chloride and propargyl AGEING BY DYNAMIC MECHANICAL
chloride, under phase transfer conditions. The cure ANALYSIS
behaviour of the resins obtained was evaluated by DSC D’Andrea B; Lillo F; Sopino B
and FTIR and the properties of the neat resin were BPD Difesa e Spazio
examined, together with those of composites containing
The effects of matrix ageing on the curing of carbon fibre-
glass and carbon fibres. 22 refs.
reinforced epoxy resin prepregs were studied by dynamic
USA
mechanical analysis in the curing of aged and unaged
Accession no.540353 samples.
PRODEMAT
Item 287 EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
Adhesives Age WESTERN EUROPE
38, No.2, Feb.1995, p.43-4 Accession no.535468
MONITORING THERMAL PROCESSING OF
AG/GLASS DIE ATTACH ADHESIVES
Item 290
Delmont J
Materiaux & Techniques
Quantum Materials Inc.
82, Nov-Dec.1994, Advanced Comp.Mat.Suppl., p.18-
Silver/glass die attach adhesives, composites of silver and 22
glass particles used to attach integrated circuits to SMART MANUFACTURING FOR RESIN
packages in the semiconductor industry, can require TRANSFER MOULDING OF ADVANCED FIBRE
thermal monitoring and profiling to prevent processing ARCHITECTURE PREFORMS
problems. Some emphasis is placed on new developments Kranbuehl D E; Hood D; Rogozinski J; Limburg W;
made by Quantum Materials in this area. Loos A C; MacRae J
USA Williamsburg,College of William & Mary;
Accession no.540181 Virginia,Polytechnic Institute
Details are given of the fundamental science of frequency
Item 288 dependent electromagnetic sensing and its application to
Polymer Engineering and Science monitor resin infiltration and cure during transfer
34, No.20, Oct.1994, p.1517-28 moulding of an epoxy resin composite in a manufacturing
MODELLING THE DIELECTRIC BEHAVIOUR plant. Results are also presented of a frequency dependent
OF EPOXY RESIN BLENDS DURING CURING electromagnetic sensing sensor system for the automatic
Maistros G M; Bucknall C B control of the fabrication process. 15 refs.
Cranfield Institute of Technology USA

A model describing the evolution of dielectric behaviour Accession no.534761

during the cure of epoxy resins and of blends containing
soluble polymeric additives was developed. Data on cure Item 291
kinetics were used to predict changes in viscosity and ICCM/9. Volume 3: Composites Modelling and
hence in ion mobility, gelation times, vitrification times Processing Science. Conference Proceedings.
and dipolar relaxation times for both resins and blends. Madrid, 12th-16th July 1993, p.713-20. 627
These predictions were then used in conjunction with the MONITORING THE PULTRUSION PROCESS TO
Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars theory to calculate dielectric ASSURE CONSTANT QUALITY
permittivity and loss as functions of cure time and test Michaeli W; Juerss D
frequency in both resin and blends. The predictions were IKV
compared with experimental data on dielectric behaviour Edited by: Miravete A
obtained during cure of both neat epoxy resin and of (Zaragoza,University)

88 © Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited

 References and Abstracts
The pultrusion process, for continuous production of fibre-
reinforced composites, is described and the problems of
monitoring the process are discussed. The results of
temperature, die pressure and conductance measurements
are studied in relation to different production parameters.
6 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.533818
Item 292
ICCM/9. Volume 3. Composites Modelling and
Processing Science. Conference Proceedings.
Madrid, 12th-16th July 1993, p.584-91. 627
DIELECTRIC MONITORING OF THE
CHEMORHEOLOGICAL BEHAVIOUR OF
EPOXY BASED COMPOSITES
Maffezzoli A; Trivisano A; Opalicki M; Nicolais L;
Kenny J M
Lecce,Universita; Napoli,Universita;
Catania,University
Edited by: Miravete A
(Zaragoza,University)
A commercial high temperature epoxy system for
aeronautical applications is studied by calorimetric,
rheological and dielectric analysis under isothermal and
non-isothermal conditions. A relationship between a
dielectric property (ionic resistivity) and the degree of
reaction and viscosity during cure of an epoxy resin matrix
for advanced composites is proposed. 7 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.533809
Item 293
Adhesives Age
37, No.12, Nov.1994, p.12
DEGREE OF CURE ANALYSER
DHC Analysis has developed a computer controlled
analyser to determine the degree of polymerisation of UV
cured materials, including thin coatings on films. The
same measurement can be used to monitor overall product
composition for AQ/QC applications on raw and finished
materials. The analyser is configured for laboratory and
at-line use, suited for spot checking in applications
requiring close control of product consistency. Samples
as small as 1mm in diameter can be analysed in less than
five minutes. This abstract includes all the information
contained in the original article.
DHC ANALYSIS
USA
Accession no.533225
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Item 294
Adhasion Kleben & Dichten
38, No.6, 1994, p.26-8
German
COHESION,YIELD POINT AND TACKINESS
Simon G
Buehnen H.,KG
Viscosity measurement with exact determination of all
viscosity constants is necessary to understand the
properties of adhesives. The wetting characteristics of
adhesives is discussed. The typical curve shown indicates
the temperature at which maximum tackiness and thus
the highest degree of crosslinking may be expected.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.533018
Item 295
International Journal of Adhesion & Adhesives
14, No.4, Oct.1994, p.211-36
DIELECTRIC SPECTROSCOPY OF
ANAEROBIC ADHESIVE CURE
McGettrick B P; Vij J K; McArdle C B
Dublin,University; Loctite (Ireland) Ltd.
Dielectric spectroscopy was shown to be a useful tool for
the study of the surface-initiated redox cure in model
anaerobic acrylic adhesives. These models were
deliberately designed to exhibit different levels of cure
heterogeneity. The cure was initiated by the surfaces of
two substrates on either side of a bondline. The
heterogeneous cure situation was referred to as low cure
through volume(CTV). Poor CTV was an undesirable
feature that led to mechanical weakness in an adhesive
bond. Thus, experimental techniques based on dielectric
spectroscopy were developed to investigate the cure
characteristics and, in particular, the CTV phenomenon
in the model anaerobic adhesives. 144 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; IRELAND;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.532103
Item 296
Polymers & Polymer Composites
2, No. 5, 1994, p.317-22
DETECTION OF UNDERCURE IN CARBON
FIBRE/EPOXY COMPOSITES BY DYNAMIC
MECHANICAL THERMAL ANALYSIS
Akay M; Cracknell J G; Farnham H A
Jordanstown,University of Ulster; Short Bros.PLC
Carbon fibre-reinforced epoxy resin laminates of varying
degrees of matrix cure were prepared and evaluated using
static mechanical tests, impact tests, and dynamic
mechanical thermal analysis. 17 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.531707
89
 References and Abstracts
Item 297
Journal of Adhesion
46, Nos.1-4, 1994, p.91-102
STUDY OF FIBRE-MATRIX INTERACTIONS
VIA FTIR MICROSCOPY AND NMR IMAGING
Mavrich A; Fondeur F; Ishida H; Koenig J L;
Wagner H D
Case Western Reserve University; Weizmann Institute
of Science
Model composites of Kevlar-49 and D-glass fibre/epoxy
systems were analysed using NMR imaging and FTIR
microscopy. The interphase and specific fibre-matrix
interactions of the fibre-reinforced composites were
characterised. The surfaces of both Kevlar-49 and D-glass
fibres were found to affect the curing process in composite
samples significantly. NMR images revealed non-uniform
cure of the matrix in the composites. The epoxy was found
to cure at an accelerated rate at the surface of these fibres
indicating strong interaction between the fibres and the
matrices. Using FTIR microscopy, these interactions were
found to be preferential segregation of the epoxy on the
Kevlar surface. It was also determined that the amine
group of the Kevlar fibre acted to catalyse the curing
process. 8 refs.
ISRAEL; USA
Accession no.531574
Item 298
Reinforced Plastics
38, No.10, Oct.1994, p.42-7
MONITORING PULTRUSION TO ASSURE
CONSTANT QUALITY
Pultrusion allows the processing of many fibres and low
viscosity matrix systems, these are summarised. The eight
process steps involved in pultrusion are outlined. It is clear
that all the process settings influence the product quality.
The monitoring of the pultrusion process with thermoset
matrix systems is challenged by the hidden reaction
process within the die. Basically three different kinds of
sensors are available to monitor the reaction within the
die: temperature, pressure and dielectrical sensors. This
article examines the sensors used and presents the results
of the recorded data under various process parameter
settings like die temperature, fibre volume contents and
pulling speed. The pultrusion trials described were run
with polyester resin and glass fibres.
IKV
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.531452
Item 299
Materials & Manufacturing Processes
9, No.5, 1994, p.851-68
PC-BASED MONITORING AND CONTROL
SYSTEM FOR MICROWAVE CURING OF
90
POLYMER COMPOSITES
Lye S W; Boey F Y C
Nanyang,Technological University
The design and development of Cure-Control for the
monitoring and control of the microwave curing of
polymer composite components are discussed. In
particular, some of the quality and production issues are
examined as well as the control of the process parameters
such as pressure, temp. and the rate of power intensity.
Preliminary experiments confirmed the viability of the
Cure-Control system in the monitoring and control of the
curing of polymer composite components.
SINGAPORE
Accession no.531171
Item 300
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
13, No.10, Oct.1994, p.918-26
CURE CHARACTERISATION OF THICK SMC
PARTS USING DIELECTRIC AND FINITE
DIFFERENCE ANALYSIS
Day D R
Auburn International Inc.
Disposable and permanently mounted dielectric sensors
were used to characterise the cure in polyester SMC at
various locations through the thickness of the part in a
simulated moulding environment. The dielectric and
temperature information were combined to yield local
cure state information for each sensor. The observed cure
state data were compared with finite difference model
predictions. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.530607
Item 301
Polymer Composites
15, No.4, Aug.1944, p.299-305
IN-SITU SENSOR MONITORING AND
INTELLIGENT CONTROL OF THE RESIN
TRANSFER MOULDING PROCESS
Kranbuehl D E; Kinsgley P; Hart S; Hasko G; Dexter B;
Loos A C
Williamsburg,College of William & Mary; Lockheed
Engineering & Sciences Co.; US,NASA,Langley
Research Center; Virginia,Polytechnic Institute & State
University
An intelligent closed-loop expert control system was
developed for automated control of the resin transfer
moulding process of a graphite fibre preform using an
epoxy resin, E905L. The sensor model system was
developed to make intelligent decisions based on the
achievement of landmarks in the cure process, such as
full preform impregnation, the viscosity, and the degree
of cure of the resin rather than time or temperature. In-
situ frequency dependent electromagnetic sensor and the
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Loos resin transfer model are used to monitor and control
the processing properties of the epoxy resin during resin
transfer moulding impregnation and cure of an advanced
fibre architecture stitched preform. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.529876
Item 302
Antec 93. Conference Proceedings.
New Orleans, La., 9th-13th May 1993, Vol.III, p.3478-
82. 012
ANALYTICAL MODELLING AND SENSOR
MONITORING FOR OPTIMAL PROCESSING
OF ADVANCED TEXTILE STRUCTURAL
COMPOSITES BY RESIN TRANSFER
MOULDING: INFILTRATION
Loos A C; MacRae J D; Hammond V H; Kranbuehl D E;
Hart S M; Hood D; Hasko G H; Dexter B
Virginia,Polytechnic Institute & State University;
William & Mary College; Lockheed Engineering &
Sciences Co.; US,NASA Langley Research Center
(SPE)
A two-dimensional resin transfer moulding process
simulation model was developed to describe the
infiltration of resin into a dry textile preform and the cure
of the resin saturated preform. Frequency dependent
electromagnetic sensing (FDEMS) was used for in-situ
process monitoring. Flow visualisation experiments were
conducted to obtain data which could be used to verify
the sensor measurements and the model predictions. The
results showed that FDEMS could accurately detect the
position of the resin flow front during mould filling. The
predicted flow front patterns agreed well with the recorded
patterns based on visual results for glass fabrics and sensor
verified results for graphite fabrics. 12 refs.
DEK DYNE INC.
USA
Accession no.528939
Item 303
Antec 93. Conference Proceedings.
New Orleans, La., 9th-13th May 1993, Vol.III, p.3470-
2. 012
CURE CHARACTERISATION OF THICK SMC
PARTS USING DIELECTRIC AND FINITE
DIFFERENCE ANALYSIS
Day D R
Micromet Instruments Inc.
(SPE)
Dielectric sensors were used to measure the local cure
state in thick SMC parts and the average cure state through
the thickness. A finite difference cure model was
developed, and its predictions were compared to the
dielectric results. Both the experimental data and the
model showed large gradients in temperature and cure
state. The model revealed that in thicknesses of three-
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
eighths of an inch or more, a thermal wave started at the
surface and built in velocity and amplitude until it reached
the part centre. Measurements of material properties at
the part centre were possible using tool mounted ceramic
sensors designed to electrically couple to the opposing
mould wall. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.528937
Item 304
Antec 93. Conference Proceedings.
New Orleans, La., 9th-13th May 1993, Vol.III, p.2991-
5. 012
RELAXATION METHODS FOR STUDYING THE
CURE AND CURE STATE OF COMPOSITES
Wetton R E; Duncan J C
Polymer Laboratories Ltd.
(SPE)
The application of DMTA and dielectric thermal analysis
(DETA) to the study of the cure of epoxy resins, and of
DMTA, DETA and DSC to the study of the cure of
unsaturated polyester prepregs is described. The superior
sensitivity of relaxational techniques such as DMTA and
DETA to the final stages of cure is demonstrated. 4 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK; USA;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.528841
Item 305
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
53, No.13, 26th Sept.1994, p.1805-12
IN SITU MONITORING OF EPOXY RESINS
USING FIBRE-OPTIC RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY
Lyon R E; Chike K E; Angel S M
US,Federal Aviation Administration; South
Carolina,University
Fibre-optic Raman spectroscopy was used to monitor the
curing of epoxy resins in situ for eventual application to
polymer composite processing. The extent of reaction of
the epoxide groups calculated from the Raman spectra
were compared with kinetic data from FTIR
measurements. 28 refs.
USA
Accession no.528255
Item 306
Polymer
35, No.5, 1994, p.939-48
INVESTIGATIONS INTO THE CURE OF MODEL
ANAEROBIC ADHESIVES USING DIELECTRIC
SPECTROSCOPY
McGettrick B P; Vij J K; McArdle C B
Dublin,Trinity College; Loctite (Ireland) Ltd.
The results of investigations into the cure of model
anaerobic adhesives by measurements of the real and
91
 References and Abstracts
imaginary parts of the complex permittivity as a function
of the cure time are reported. These adhesives are designed
to exhibit heterogeneous cure which is initiated by the
surfaces of two substrates on either side of a bondline.
This situation is referred to as low cure through volume
(CTV) or heterogeneous cure. Three stages in the cure
process are identified and discussed. A physical model
based on the Maxwell-Wagner interfacial polarisation
effect is given which satisfactorily explains the changes
in the complex permittivity which occur due to the surface
initiated redox cure of an anaerobic adhesive. The physical
model is modified to explain the cure of another model
anaerobic adhesive which is deliberately tailored to
exhibit a much more homogeneous cure or high CTV.
The model is found to fit the experimental data on
complex permittivity for frequencies up to 10 kHz. The
adhesive formulations’ ingredients included 10phr
hydroxypropyl methacrylate, 10 phr acrylic acid and 75
phr resin base. 47 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; IRELAND;
WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.526163
Item 307
Antec 93. Conference Proceedings.
New Orleans, La., 9th-13th May 1993, Vol.III, p.2352-
5. 012
INFLUENCE OF REINFORCEMENTS ON
PHOTOCURING: PHOTODYNAMIC
MECHANICAL ANALYSIS
Renault T; Ogale A A; Drews M J
Clemson,University
(SPE)
Photodynamic mechanical analysis, a new technique
combining the advantages of dynamic mechanical
analysis and photocalorimetry, was used to determine the
influence of glass, quartz and carbon fibre reinforcements
on the UV curing of polyacrylate resins used in
stereolithography. Liquid resin was dispensed on a
polyester braided elastic support and exposed to UV light.
The increase of the sample modulus due to curing of the
matrix was monitored as a function of time. It was found
that glass and quartz fibres did not influence the cure, but
carbon fibres significantly blocked the UV light and
retarded the cure. A shear lag model was developed to
derive the modulus of the resins from experimental data.
15 refs.
USA
Accession no.524621
Item 308
Antec 93. Conference Proceedings.
New Orleans, La., 9th-13th May 1993, Vol.III, p.2344-
6. 012
CHARACTERISATION OF CURE IN
PHOTOCROSSLINKING POLYMERS: THE
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TENSILE
92
PROPERTIES AND ULTRAVIOLET (UV) DOSE
Rakas M A
Loctite Corp.
(SPE)
Changes in tensile properties with UV dose in the curing
of acrylate and norbornene end-capped polydimethyl
siloxane prepolymers were investigated. Brief reference
is made to the use of these materials in adhesives. 14 refs.
USA
Accession no.524619
Item 309
Polymer Engineering and Science
34, No.12, June 1994, p.1025-32
FIBRE OPTIC INTRINSIC FLUORESCENCE
FOR IN-SITU CURE MONITORING OF AMINE
CURED EPOXY AND COMPOSITES
Hyung-Joon Paik; Nak-Ho Sung
Tufts University
The cure reactions of epoxy-diamine and its composites
are monitored in-situ using the intrinsic fluorescence of
the aromatic diamine, diaminodiphenyl sulphone (DDS).
With a fibre optic fluorimeter, in-situ cure monitoring was
performed via a single fibre, distal-end probe, in neat
epoxy as well as in commercial grade prepregs containing
graphite fibres and DDS curing agent. The prepregs were
investigated during multi-ply lamination in an oven. The
fluorescence excitation spectra were obtained by emitting
at 420 nm with a scan range of 320-400 nm, and the DDS
peak position was determined as a function of cure time
and temperature. 20 refs.
USA
Accession no.521565
Item 310
Antec 93. Conference Proceedings.
New Orleans, La., 9th-13th May 1993, Vol.II, p.1660-5.
012
ANALYTICAL TOOLS FOR ADHESIVE
PROCESS DEVELOPMENT
MacNeal K A
Digital Equipment Corp.
(SPE)
DSC, TGA and DMA were used to evaluate cure
schedules for three thermally conductive thermoset
adhesives for use in attaching an aluminium heat sink to
a ceramic integrated circuit package. Information was
obtained on weight loss, outgassing and void formation
during cure, shelf and pot life and viscosity changes as a
function of time.
USA
Accession no.516975
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Item 311
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
52, No.13, 27th June 1994, p.1857-65
ASPECTS OF SURFACE CHARACTERISATION
OF POLYURETHANE ADHESIVES
Ulkem I; Schreiber H P
Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal
The surface properties of three water-based emulsions of
PUs, one based on an aliphatic polyester, one on an
aromatic polyether and the third on an aliphatic polyether-
based PU, were studied. The effect of gamma-
aminopropyl silane on the dispersive and non-dispersive
component of surface energies of these polymers was
investigated. An attempt was made to correlate the
characterisation parameters with aspects of mechanical
performance of the composites prepared using sized glass
fibres as the reinforcing agent. Dielectric analysis was
used to monitor the curing reactions at the surface of the
PUs. 26 refs.
CANADA
Accession no.516333
Item 312
Journal of Adhesion
43, No.4, 1993, p.289-308
NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE
IMAGES(NMRI) OF IN SITU EPOXY CURING
BEHAVIOUR IN ANODISED AND UNTREATED
ALUMINIUM BONDED JOINTS
Fondeur F; Koenig J L
Case Western Reserve University
NMRI was used to analyse the curing behaviour of epoxy
adhesives in the presence of anodised and chemically-
treated aluminium surfaces. The proton images of epoxy
resin between untreated Al plates were characterised by
large amounts of inhomogeneities (fine texture of high
and low mobility regions) finely distributed throughout
the sample. Large uncured domains of epoxy resin were
found aggregated and near the centre of the bonded
adhesive sample. Dispersion of uncured material during
curing was observed through redistribution of intensity
in the images with cure time. The anodised aluminium-
epoxy samples, on the other hand, showed very small
contrast and coarse texture images. However, the onset
of curing was clearly shown with increases in contrast
and texture. Large amounts of uncured material were seen
near the anodised surfaces. This effect was more
pronounced in the chromic acid-anodised aluminium
samples. 10 refs.
USA
Accession no.514168
Item 313
Journal of Adhesion
43, No.4, 1993, p.273-87
CHARACTERISATION OF CURE PROFILE OF
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
ANAEROBIC ADHESIVES BY REAL TIME FTIR
SPECTROSCOPY. I. EFFECT OF TRANSITION
METAL DITHIOLATE COMPLEXES
Yang D B
Loctite Corp.
The kinetics and mechanism of anaerobic polymerisation
were studied using a model acrylic adhesive formulation
consisting of triethylene glycol dimethacrylate monomer,
cumene hydroperoxide and o-benzoic sulphimide, with
or without a metal dithiolate catalyst. A real-time FTIR
spectroscopic technique was used to study anaerobic cure
profiles at room temp. The catalytic effect of several
transition metal dithio complexes for redox-initiated
acrylate polymerisation was studied. The dithiolates used
in these studies included the dithiocarbamate, xanthate
dithiophosphate complexes of copper, nickel and zinc
systems. Copper diacetylacetonate was also investigated
for comparison of its catalytic reactivity. A synergistic
effect of copper dithiolate catalyst and saccharin was
observed. The effects of catalyst concentration, metal and
ligand type and co-initiator on cure profiles were
monitored in a real-time mode. 40 refs.
USA
Accession no.514167
Item 314
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
52, No.6, 9th May 1994, p.737-46
CHARACTERISATION OF MODEL ANAEROBIC
ADHESIVE CURE USING REAL-TIME FTIR
SPECTROSCOPY AND DIELECTRIC
SPECTROSCOPY
McGettrick B P; Vij J K; McArdle C B
Dublin,University; Loctite (Ireland) Ltd.
The cure of surface-initiated model anaerobic acrylic
adhesives was characterised using FTIR spectroscopy.
The concept of a cure gradient was further developed
using dielectric spectroscopy. Data from the two methods
were compared. 42 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; IRELAND; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.512356
Item 315
Antec 93. Conference Proceedings.
New Orleans, La., 9th-13th May 1993, Vol.I, p.653-5.
012
USE OF FDEMS SENSING FOR IN-SITU, ON-LINE
MONITORING OF DEGREE OF CURE DURING
POLYMERISATION OF A 2-STAGE, HIGH
PERFORMANCE RTM COMPOSITE RESIN
Kranbuehl D; Polis D; Short C; Wang Y; Loos A C;
Dexter B; Hasko G
William & Mary College; Virginia,Polytechnic Institute
& State University; US,NASA Langley Research Center;
Lockheed Engineering & Sciences Co.
(SPE)
93
 References and Abstracts
Frequency dependent electromagnetic sensing (FDEMS)
was used to monitor the build-up in degree of cure of BP’s
E905L resin transfer moulding system consisting of a triazine
resin/epoxy resin/amine mixture. FDEMS was considerably
more sensitive to changes in degree of cure and the build-up
of final use properties such as Tg than was DSC during the
latter stages of cure. The FDEMS output, both the mean
dipolar relaxation time and the rate of change of the complex
permittivity, could be used to quantitatively measure Tg and
degree of cure in situ during processing. 12 refs.
BP CHEMICALS LTD.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; UK; USA; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.507429
Item 316
SPI Composites Institute s 48th Annual Conference.
Conference Proceedings.
Cincinnati,Oh., 8th-11th Feb.1993, Paper 20-B. 627
CURE CHARACTERISATION OF THICK SMC
PARTS USING DIELECTRIC AND FINITE
DIFFERENCE ANALYSIS
Day D R
Micromet Instruments Inc.
(SPI,Composites Institute)
A study characterises the cure in polyester SMC by using
disposable and permanently mounted dielectric sensors
at various locations through the thickness of the part.
Results showed that parts under 5mm thick cured
uniformly, whilst those with greater thickness showed
increasing non-uniformity. These observed results were
compared with finite difference model predictions. 13 refs.
USA
Accession no.507194
Item 317
Advanced Composites Bulletin
March 1994, p.13
SENSOR DEVELOPED FOR MEASURING
COMPOSITE CURING
It is briefly reported that the University of Dayton has
developed a sensor capable of monitoring the thickness
and compaction of a plastic matrix composite during the
curing cycle. The sensor is a Hall-effect device which
functions by delivering an output voltage that is sensitive
to changes in magnetic field. The device is simple, cheap
and will additionally compensate for temperature changes
during the process.
DAYTON,UNIVERSITY
USA
Accession no.506353
Item 318
Shawbury, Rapra Technology ltd., 1993, pp.122. 12ins.
22/11/93. Rapra Review Rept.No.68. Vol.6, No.8, 1993.
9111T
94
CURE ASSESSMENT BY PHYSICAL AND
CHEMICAL TECHNIQUES
Willoughby B G
Rapra Technology Ltd.
Edited by: Dolbey R
Rapra Review Report No.68
Physical and chemical monitoring methods used to
evaluate the state of curing are described and critically
evaluated. Comments on both practical and theoretical
aspects of cure monitoring are included and the process
of cure itself is considered. 510 refs. This item is available
only by purchase from Rapra Technology Ltd.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; UK; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.501040
Item 319
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
51, No.2, 10th Jan.1994, p.353-64
CURE BEHAVIOUR OF PAPER-PHENOLIC
COMPOSITE SYSTEMS: KINETIC
MODELLING
Kiran E; Iyer R
Maine,University
Cure reactions in paper-phenolic composite systems were
studied by DSC. A phenomenological approach was used
to characterise the cure kinetics. Various kinetic models
were tested. 24 refs.
USA
Accession no.500822
Item 320
ICCM/9. Volume 2: Ceramic Matrix Composites and
Other Systems. Conference Proceedings.
Madrid, 12th-16th July 1993, p.457-64. 627
REAL TIME, IN-SITU CURE MONITORING OF
ADVANCED AEROSPACE COMPOSITES USING
A FIBRE OPTIC SENSOR BASED ON FTIR
SPECTROSCOPY
Tapanes E E; Hill A J; Rossiter P L
Monash,University
Edited by: Miravete A
(Zaragoza,University)
The development of an intrinsic silica fibre optic chemical
sensor based on evanescent wave absorption is reported.
This sensor, which permits remote chemical analysis by
near-IR spectroscopy, was used to monitor the cure of an
advanced aerospace epoxy resin composite by coupling
to a Fourier transform IR spectrometer. 19 refs.
AUSTRALIA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; SPAIN; WESTERN
EUROPE
Accession no.499244
Item 321
Toughened Plastics I: Science and Engineering. ACS
Advances in Chemistry Series 233.
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts
Washington, DC, 1993, p.539-57. 627
THERMAL CHARACTERISATION OF THE
CURE KINETICS OF ADVANCED MATRICES
FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE COMPOSITES
Kenny J M; Trivisano A; Nicolais L
Naples,University
Edited by: Riew C K; Kinloch A J
(ACS,Div.of Polymeric Materials Science & Engng.)
ACS Advances in Chemistry Series 233
The cure kinetics of high performance epoxy resin,
toughened epoxy resin and polybismaleimide matrices
for carbon fibre composites were characterised by DSC.
The effect of diffusion control phenomena on the reaction
kinetics, associated with the evolution of Tg as a function
of degree of cure, was considered in the formulation of a
modified nth order kinetic model. Isothermal and dynamic
tests were used to calculate and verify the model
parameters. The model was able to describe incomplete
reactions in isothermal tests and heating rate dependence
of dynamic test results. 12 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; ITALY; USA; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.499204
Item 322
Polymer News
18, No.8, Aug.1993, p.230-6
IN-SITU MONITORING OF PROCESSING OF
COMPOSITES BY DIELECTRIC
MEASUREMENTS
Mijovic J; Kenny J M; Nicolais L; Pejanovic S; Aleksic R
Brooklyn,Polytechnic University; Napoli,Universita;
Belgrade,University
Fundamental concepts of dielectric analysis and its use
for in-situ monitoring of processing of polymer
composites are presented. Dipole relaxation, ionic
conductivity, and electrode polarisation were identified
as the major dielectric events that accompany cure. The
relative contributions of dipole relaxation and ionic
conductivity to the overall dielectric response during cure
depend on the experimental frequency and the degree of
cure of the resin. Fundamental equations for calculation
of dielectric properties are presented. A brief description
was given of the currently available dielectric sensors for
in-situ monitoring of cure. Several examples of dielectric
measurements obtained are given, and are discussed in
the context of the limitations of dielectric sensors
regarding the fundamental nature of the sensed
information. 37 refs.
EASTERN EUROPE; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; ITALY; USA;
WESTERN EUROPE; YUGOSLAVIA
Accession no.492921
Item 323
Composites Science & Technology
49, No.3, 1993, p.277-90
PRINCIPLES OF DIELECTRIC
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
MEASUREMENTS FOR IN-SITU MONITORING
OF COMPOSITE PROCESSING
Mijovic J; Kenny J M; Maffezzoli A; Trivisano A;
Bellucci F; Nicolais L
Napoli,Universita
The fundamental concepts of dielectric behaviour of
polymers and the utilisation of dielectric measurements
for in-situ monitoring of cure of polymers and composites
are discussed. Information is presented on currently used
dielectric sensors and the procedure for calculation of
dielectric parameters from the monitored signal. The
review is written to accommodate both the fundamental
and the pragmatic aspects of dielectric monitoring of cure.
In the final part of the review, a critical assessment is
offered of the advantages and disadvantages of dielectric
measurements for the in-situ monitoring of processing of
polymers and composites. 80 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; ITALY; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.492882
Item 324
Composites Science & Technology
49, No.3, 1993, p.265-76
CURE AND FABRICATION MONITORING OF
COMPOSITE MATERIALS WITH FIBRE-OPTIC
SENSORS
Roberts S S J; Davidson R
AEA Technology
The ultimate mechanical properties of composite
materials are strongly dependent on the chemical and
rheological events occurring during the cure cycle. This
review paper assesses the feasibility of using embedded
fibre optic sensors to conduct in-situ measurements of
cure states, cure kinetics, resin viscosity and residual stress
build-up during the manufacture of composite laminates.
Several new techniques, some novel and some
refinements of existing techniques are being developed
to provide a basis for the eventual intelligent processing
of composites. 40 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; UK; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.492881
Item 325
International Journal of Adhesion & Adhesives
13, No.3, 1993, p.157-62
STUDY OF THE CURE OF ADHESIVES USING
DYNAMIC MECHANICAL ANALYSIS
Cook R W; Tod D A
UK,Defence Research Agency
Adhesives are being used extensively in fabrication as
they offer many advantages over standard joining
methods. As the adhesive forms an integral part of the
structure, it is necessary to understand the initial
mechanical properties of the material and how these
change with ageing. Formal testing of materials often
95
 References and Abstracts
involves a considerable number of tensile tests which are
expensive and time consuming. One method of speeding
up the process is to study the small strain mechanical
properties of materials and avoid the statistical uncertainty
involved in fracture tests. This paper shows how dynamic
mechanical spectroscopy can be applied to the study of
adhesives and adhesive joints. 4 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; UK; WESTERN EUROPE
Accession no.488613
Item 326
Advanced Materials Newsletter
15, No.13, 12th July 1993, p.3
RESIN AND COMPOSITE PROCESS CONTROL
Keller IB
US Patent 5,219,498 has been assigned to I. B. Keller for a
system measuring curing or thermoforming conditions by
correlating dielectric data with physical and chemical
changes in the resin. Process curves for specific resins are
compared with signature curves that are characteristic of
the resins. Reaction conditions are then applied in real time
to the resin and fabric to conform the process curve with
the signature curve. Lower void content and improved
laminate quality are claimed. This abstract includes all the
information contained in the original article.
USA
Accession no.486446
Item 327
SAMPE Quarterly
24, No.3, April 1993, p.30-7
ON LINE DETERMINATION OF COMPOSITE
LAMINATE THERMAL DIFFUSIVITY AND
HEAT RELEASE RATE
Lee C W; Rice B P
Dayton,University,Research Institute
Efforts to ensure the quality of composite parts during cure
has led to the development of expert systems for real time
process control. Of primary importance to the success of
these systems is the sensor data which provide information
on the response of the part to autoclave conditions. A novel
use of a thermopile and method for processing the
thermopile data to determine the thermal diffusivity and
rate of heat release of the laminate during cure were
developed. This information can be used to detect onset of
reaction, rate of reaction and end of cure. 7 refs.
USA
Accession no.478240
96
Item 328
Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites
12, No.2, Feb.1993, p.173-85
MICROWAVE DYNAMIC DIELECTRIC
ANALYSIS OF CURING NEAT RESINS
King J J; Werner M J; Mayorga G D
KDC Technology Corp.; Hexcel Corp.
Microwave reflection resonator sensors were developed to
monitor the complex, dynamic, in situ real and imaginary
dielectric permittivity of thermoset polymer matrix
composites and thermoplastics. These reusable and
noninvasive sensors are conformably mounted in the
autoclave mould in such a manner that the electromagnetic
fields are strongly coupled to the resin. Tracking the ionic
loss factor and the dipole loss factor during cure provides
information about the chemical kinetics, resin viscosity,
rigidity, porosity and relative cure index. The technique was
beta-tested in a commercial laboratory over a 9-month period,
and is complementary to other analysis techniques such as
DSC and DMA. A prototype software and electronics
package was developed to support the sensor. This paper
focuses on the testing of neat epoxy resins. 6 refs.
EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; IRELAND; USA; WESTERN
EUROPE
Accession no.474266
Item 329
Journal of Polymer Science : Polymer Chemistry
Edition
31,No.1,Jan.1993,p.199-208
KINETIC STUDIES OF
PHOTOPOLYMERISATION USING REAL TIME
FOURIER TRANSFORM IR SPECTROSCOPY
Yang D B
Loctite Corp.
The above technique was shown to be sensitive, reliable
and easy-to-use for monitoring the kinetic behaviour of
photopolymerisation reactions at a molecular level and
in a real time mode. The technique could be used for
acrylate-based monomers, e.g. in coating and adhesive
applications, as well as other monomers with
characteristic IR functional groups. It was used to study
both continuous and staged irradiation cure behaviour.
Continuous irradiation cure was used to determine the
degree of cure, reaction rate and induction period, while
staged irradiation cure was used to determine the reactivity
of the photoinitiator and its post-cure behaviour. 20 refs.
USA
Accession no.466307
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
 References and Abstracts

Item 330
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
42,No.9,5th March 1991,p.2453-63
CONTINUOUS HEATING TRANSFORMATION
CURE DIAGRAM OF AN AROMATIC AMINE/
EPOXY SYSTEM AT CONSTANT HEATING
RATES
Wisanrakkit G;Gillham J K
PRINCETON,UNIVERSITY
A mathematical expression for the overall reaction
kinetics obtained previously for the reaction of a
difunctional epoxy (bisphenol A diglycidyl ether) with a
tetrafunctional aromatic diamine (trimethylene glycol di-
p-aminobenzoate), together with the unique one-to-one
relationship between Tg and chemical conversion, is used
to calculate the materials Tg vs time under heating at
constant rates. Calculated results correlate well with
experimental results obtained by torsional braid analysis.
22 refs.
USA
Accession no.423867

© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited 97

 References and Abstracts

98 © Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited


A ALUMINIUM, 11 12 52 119 131
ACCELERATOR, 5 18 131 152
204 212
ACETONE-FORMALDEHYDE
POLYMER, 206
ACOUSTIC EMISSION, 19 129
241
ACOUSTIC MICROSCOPY, 182
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES, 158
227
ACOUSTIC WAVE SENSOR, 227
ACRYLATE POLYMER, 17 24 38
39 51 250 308
ACRYLIC ACID COPOLYMER,
306
ACRYLIC ACID POLYMER, 140
ACRYLIC COPOLYMER, 9
ACRYLIC ESTER POLYMER, 24
38 39 51
ACRYLIC POLYMER, 16 38 48
51 67 69 91 152 188 227 295
306 313 314 329
ACTIVATION ENERGY, 5 11 22
82 88 108 128 132 150 195 230
231 258 304 315
ADDITION CURING, 82
ADDITIVE, 5 9 18 56 63 131 132
133 152 164 166 167 204 211
212 213 219 227 256 257 259
262 270 279 302 307 308 310
313 315 321
ADHESION, 7 34 36 79 85 131
132 133 146 188 250 295 310
312
ADHESIVE, 7 9 11 12 13 15 16 21
23 34 36 37 39 41 46 48 49 51
52 55 58 60 67 68 69 72 75 77
79 85 88 89 91 102 107 117 126
127 130 131 132 133 141 149
151 163 164 177 183 188 205
218 219 231 241 250 261 262
287 295 308 310 311 312 313
314 325 329
ADVANCED COMPOSITE, 252
265 302 320
AEROSPACE APPLICATION, 92
119 146 148 199 230 265 292
320
AGEING, 4 36 91 130 132 161 270
282 289 304 315 325
AIR ENTRAPMENT, 133 159
AIRCRAFT, 56 119 146 199 252
320
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Subject Index
Subject Index
132 133 147 188 205 250 303
310 312
ALUMINIUM OXIDE, 227 259
AMINE, 14 56 65 128 132 152 164
178 211 257 259 261 269 270
309 315
AMINOSILANE, 63 307
ANAEROBIC ADHESIVE, 188
205 295 306 313
ARAMID FIBRE, 198 298
ARAMID FIBRE-REINFORCED
PLASTIC, 291 304
ARMOUR, 80
ARMOURED VEHICLE, 198
ARRHENIUS’S LAW, 35 88 139
146 303
ASSEMBLY, 34 192 218 250
ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY,
85 192
ATTENUATED TOTAL
REFLECTION
SPECTROSCOPY, 9 262 307
AUTOCATALYSIS, 88
AUTOCATALYTIC, 22 31 315
AUTOCLAVE, 6 33 123 137 146
190 202 223 232 255 265 275
278 283 317 327
AUTOCLAVE MOULDING, 229
AUTOMATION, 54 97 98 155 174
192 199 224 239 290 301
AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATION, 7
60 89 116 152 153 199 239 246
250
B CASHEW NUT RESIN, 93
BALLISTIC, 80
BANK CARD, 250
BISMALEIMIDE POLYMER, 100
199 221
BISPHENOL A, 164 251
BISPHENOL A CYANURATE, 81
BISPHENOL A DIGLYCIDYL
ETHER, 3 128 131 145 211 212
213 259 315
BISPHENOL A DIGLYCIDYL
ETHER DIMETHACRYLATE,
67
BLEND, 4 17 229 244 273 288 315
321
BLOWING AGENT, 133 227
BOND STRENGTH, 67 79 132
133 306
BONDING, 7 34 52 67 75 85 131
133 192 241 250 278
BONE CEMENT, 160 183 195 237
BOUNDARY CONDITION, 159
160 233 279 302 303
BRAGG GRATING, 60
BRAKE, 250
BRITTLE, 82 190 213
BUILDING APPLICATION, 177
BULK MOULDING
COMPOUND, 143 245 246 260
263 282
BUS, 198
C
CALIBRATION, 54 153 214 222
298 317
CALORIMETRY, 2 28 46 124 139
262 292 323
CAPILLARY RHEOMETER, 285
CAR, 152 239
CARBON FABRIC, 279
CARBON FIBRE, 40 47 57 81 139
217 225 307
CARBON FIBRE-REINFORCED
PLASTIC, 6 14 19 22 25 27 33
42 43 53 56 61 66 71 73 76 90
95 100 101 108 119 123 132
135 136 139 146 147 155 159
172 182 185 190 193 200 217
225 229 230 235 244 258 271
274 275 279 280 285 286 289
291 296 298 301 302 307 321
324
CATALYST, 3 78 98 167 188 199
218
CAVITY PRESSURE, 228 233
CELLULAR MATERIAL, 152 159
219 227
CELLULOSE, 264
CERAMIC, 158 270 303 310
CHARACTERISATION, 34 70 82
85 145 149 150 182 192 202
210 217 221 255 269 276 286
297 311 313 321 325
CHEMICAL MODIFICATION, 56
57 131 213 221 261
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE, 12 16
41 45 57 76 82 89 90 109 128
131 196 206 212 221 278
CIVIL ENGINEERING, 1 127 148
CLOSED LOOP, 155 174 245 282
301
99

CLOSED LOOP CONTROL, 228
239 279
COATED FIBRE, 192 307
COATING, 12 64 154 217 247 248
255 329
COMPACTION, 232 279 302
COMPRESSION MOULDING,
162 167 208 246 247 285
COMPRESSION PROPERTIES,
21 80 107 140 200 304
COMPUTER AIDED ANALYSIS,
106 132 146 198 211 279 289
COMPUTER CONTROL, 54 97
199 224 232 239 242 293 299
COMPUTER MODEL, 159 252
302
COMPUTER SIMULATION, 146
157 159 165 185 201 233 276
300
CONCRETE, 1 55 127
CONTROL EQUIPMENT, 104 201
224 232 234 239 242 246 247
252 271 275 281 284 287 290
293 298 299 326
CONTROL SYSTEM, 8 35 54 96
97 98 100 168 174 234 239 246
271 275 281 287 290 299
CONVECTION, 159 233
CONVERSION, 5 12 16 46 51 59
69 77 84 160 167 183 211 212
262
CONVERSION RATE, 81
COOLING, 44 84 133 213 239 246
258 298
COUPLING AGENT, 63 109 132
204 238 307
CRACKING, 213 303
CREEP, 39 129 226
CROSSLINK, 71 304 307 308 315
321
CROSSLINK DENSITY, 87 131
204 250 262 318 330
CROSSLINKING, 2 9 18 25 33 40
46 49 51 56 59 60 63 75 82 83
85 86 87 88 91 92 93 94 95 96
103 105 106 107 110 111 117
118 120 126 135 141 144 149
154 161 164 167 175 178 179
180 181 190 194 195 197 204
205 209 213 215 220 221 222
234 238 263 274 282 286 288
295 306 311 313
CROSSLINKING AGENT, 195
204
CROSSLINKING PHENOMENA,
79 87 95 321
CURE CYCLE, 20 182 202 244
258 265 324
100
Subject Index
CURE RATE, 2 3 4 5 36 38 39 48
49 52 57 59 61 64 70 77 78 81
88 91 120 127 130 131 136 139
143 146 149 150 152 160 177
180 188 205 210 212 218 228
249 250 258 259 260 262 274
279 282 283 285 288 289 303
304 307 308 310 315 318 321
330
CURE TEMPERATURE, 5 17 26
27 31 32 49 53 59 88 89 93 118
119 134 144 171 180 182 186
204 220 221 235 250 274 299
CURE TIME, 4 23 26 49 56 61 63
77 118 140 143 144 152 179
181 182 203 210 211 212 217
221 256 257 259 270 279 282
288 289 303 304 306 307 309
310 312 320 321 325
CUREMETER, 92 104 105 106
219 225 293
CURING AGENT, 2 5 9 18 41 56
65 68 128 131 132 145 152 164
166 167 172 178 195 196 204
211 212 213 217 227 256 257
259 262 264 270 279 308 309
313 315
CURING REACTION, 3 22 87 128
150 221 231 252 306 330
CURING SYSTEM, 77 78 87 150
212 306
CURING TEMPERATURE, 56 70
78 87 131 139 146 152 181 211
212 256 257 258 259 270 279
289 303 304 308 310 315 321
CYANATE ESTER POLYMER,
258
CYCLE TIME, 29 64 97 134 159
167 199 210 228 239 249 282
D DIELECTRIC THERMAL
DEBONDING, 82 132 133
DEFECT, 133 239
DEFORMATION, 145 159 204 270
DEGRADATION, 4 36 91 130 132
158 161 169 228
DEGREE OF CROSSLINKING, 2
25 46 63 118 144 149 179 194
222 235 294 308 313 329
DEGREE OF CURE, 13 15 19 20
22 28 34 47 53 56 61 62 77 78
87 110 116 121 131 132 139
146 147 155 159 160 182 183
186 208 211 212 213 221 228
247 253 257 258 259 276 278
279 301 302 303 304 307 310
315 321 322 330
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
DEGREE OF
POLYMERISATION, 77 160
183 212 237 307 308
DEGREE OF REACTION, 145
292
DEMOULD, 239 260
DEMOULDING, 18 152 228 282
DENSITY, 36 147 159 194 197 227
228 270 276 279 303 307
DENTAL APPLICATION, 1 72
DENTAL CEMENT, 140 277
DEPTH PROFILING, 13 227
DESIGN, 129 159 202 232 251
280 299
DIAMINE, 41 164 217 256 259
269 309
DIAMINODIPHENYL
METHANE, 128 196
DIAMINODIPHENYLSULFONE,
10 14 41 128 256 259
DICYANDIAMIDE, 131 212
DIE, 50 246 291 298
DIELECTRIC, 20 248 249 255 271
292 298
DIELECTRIC ANALYSIS, 37 46
64 85 86 88 94 132 170 179
181 212 228 245 260 263 274
282 303 304 316 322 323
DIELECTRIC CURING, 210 246
263
DIELECTRIC PROPERTIES, 13
66 74 83 92 99 106 128 132
143 167 170 171 177 181 190
198 212 226 235 245 247 248
255 260 265 270 274 279 282
288 292 300 303 304 306 311
314 318 322 323 328
DIELECTRIC RELAXATION, 132
181 212 304 323
DIELECTRIC SPECTROSCOPY,
11 295 306
ANALYSIS, 85 304
DIELECTROMETRY, 13 20 21 46
66 167 171 212 303
DIFFERENTIAL THERMAL
ANALYSIS, 3 5 14 19 20 22 26
31 34 41 45 47 53 56 58 59 61
65 70 71 76 77 78 82 85 88 90
93 105 108 110 111 113 114
115 116 117 121 128 131 135
145 146 149 151 156 160 182
183 186 188 195 196 204 206
208 212 221 222 226 229 235
236 240 258 261 262 264 269
276 279 286 304 310 315 319
321 327 328
DIFFUSION, 46 63 132 181 210

212 247 248 255 321
DIGLYCIDYL ETHER, 240 251
269
DIGLYCIDYL ETHER
BISPHENOL A, 5
DILATOMETER, 163
DILATOMETRY, 99
DIMETHACRYLATE POLYMER,
205
DIPHENYLMETHANE
DIISOCYANATE, 46 213
DIPOLE RELAXATION, 132 212
274 288 304 315 322
DOUGH MOULDING
COMPOUND, 162 285
DYE, 211 249 257 259 302
DYNAMIC DIELECTRIC
ANALYSIS, 254 274
DYNAMIC DIFFERENTIAL
CALORIMETRY, 141
DYNAMIC MECHANICAL
ANALYSIS, 10 36 56 57 69 70
82 87 92 105 110 130 145 182
226 261 289 307 310 325 328
DYNAMIC MECHANICAL
PROPERTIES, 32 57 113 130
145 213 226 304 307 330
DYNAMIC MECHANICAL
THERMAL ANALYSIS, 19 26
70 85 91 116 161 181 229 304
DYNAMIC PROPERTIES, 32 57
113 130 145 213 226
E 283 288 289 290 291 292 296
E-GLASS, 21 31 262 302
E-MODULUS, 27 121 127 145 183
ELASTIC MODULUS, 27 121 127
145 181 182 183 225
ELASTIC PROPERTIES, 19 158
177 182 225
ELASTOMER, 4 7 19 21 36 75 85
97 129 130 131 132 177 219
227 287 293 295 307 308 311
318
ELECTRIC FIELD, 132 212 257
304
ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY,
40 58 64 73 74 117 132 167 198
212 291 304 306 315 322
ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES, 40
45 64 73 74 128 132 158 171
181 196 197 212 215 240 245
265 270 279 282 288 303 304
315
ELECTRICAL RESISTIVITY, 64
73 212 215 292 304
ELECTROMAGNETIC
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Subject Index
SENSING, 155 279 302 315
ELECTRON PARAMAGNETIC
RESONANCE
SPECTROSCOPY, 203
ELECTRON SCANNING
MICROSCOPY, 124
ELECTRONIC APPLICATION, 78
287 310
ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS, 206
EMISSION SPECTRA, 257 259
EMISSION SPECTROSCOPY,
217
ENGINEERING APPLICATION,
97
ENTHALPY, 56 65 131 141 212
EPICHLOROHYDRIN, 164
EPOXIDE RESIN, 2 3 5 6 7 10 11
12 13 14 15 19 21 22 25 27 28
33 34 41 42 43 44 45 47 53 55
56 58 60 61 62 63 65 70 71 73
74 77 78 79 81 84 86 90 94 95
99 100 101 103 107 108 109
110 113 115 116 117 119 123
124 126 127 128 131 132 133
135 136 139 141 145 147 149
150 151 152 154 155 156 163
164 167 170 171 172 176 178
179 181 182 184 185 186 187
189 190 193 196 199 200 202
204 211 212 213 214 215 217
222 227 230 235 236 238 240
241 243 249 250 251 253 256
257 259 262 266 268 269 270
273 274 275 276 278 279 280
297 298 301 302 303 304 305
309 312 315 320 321
EPOXY ACRYLATE POLYMER,
49 225
EPOXY-CRESOL RESIN, 14
EPOXY CYANATE RESIN, 81
EPOXY-ISOCYANURATE
RESIN, 213
ESR SPECTROSCOPY, 203
ETHYLENE GLYCOL
DIMETHACRYLATE, 195
ETHYLENE GLYCOL
DIMETHACRYLATE
COPOLYMER, 277
EVANESCENCE, 191 259 320
EVANESCENT WAVE
SPECTROSCOPY, 176 211 234
238 243 249 257 259 278 320
EXOTHERM, 131 190 258 262
303 310 315
EXOTHERMIC, 3 118 152 159
304
EXPANSION, 100 120
EXTRUSION, 227 285
F
FABRIC, 21 57 120 307
FABRIC REINFORCED, 211
FABRICATION, 7 128 252 324
325
FABRY-PEROT
INTERFEROMETRY, 173
FAILURE, 56 82 132 181 192 308
FAST FOURIER TRANSFORM,
133
FATIGUE, 129 153 173
FAULT DIAGNOSIS, 133 239
FIBRE, 4 82 148 150 192 225 278
297 309
FIBRE CONTENT, 142 204 211
220 258 270 279 298 302
FIBRE DIAMETER, 192 198 259
FIBRE GLASS, 21 57 84 139 150
217 225
FIBRE OPTIC, 25 56 172 211 214
222 246 251 252 253 268 271
278 283 309
FIBRE-REINFORCED PLASTIC,
6 14 27 43 53 56 57 61 66 71
76 87 90 93 100 113 132 135
138 146 147 150 155 159 185
190 193 200 217 225 246 249
291
FILAMENT WINDING, 193 289
FILLER, 1 7 32 40 58 66 78 81 131
132 138 140 150 152 195 227
310
FILM, 11 12 13 21 131 153 154
230 247 248 255 256
FINITE DIFFERENCE
ANALYSIS, 159 180 233 276
303 316
FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS,
44 50 120 142 147 159 185 194
208 225 233 279 302
FLEXURAL PROPERTIES, 53 82
104 128 145 181 188 219 226
229 271 285 289 304 318
FLOW, 40 54 66 80 94 98 112 137
146 159 201 204 227 233 239
279 302
FLOW FRONT, 159 198
FLOW METER, 242
FLOW RATE, 159 199 201 233
239 242 279 285
FLOW VISUALISATION, 54 302
FLUORESCENCE, 16 51 69 184
211 217 234 243 249 257 259
266 268 309
FLUORESCENCE
101

SPECTROSCOPY, 63 168 172
211 257 259 324
FLUORIMETRY, 211 249 257 259
309
FLUOROPHORE, 63 172 211 257
259 268
FOAM, 152 159 219 227
FOAM-CORE, 153 199 246
FORMULATION, 4 36 39 152 250
FOURIER TRANSFORM, 5 132
133 211 227 231 257 283 307
320 329
FOURIER TRANSFORM
INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY,
9 15 16 36 37 38 41 48 51 56
59 69 75 76 82 85 93 109 114
121 154 189 207 221 230 249
262 264 272 277 278 286 297
305 313 314
FREQUENCY DEPENDENT
ELECTROMAGNETIC
SENSOR, 279 301 302 315
FRESNEL REFLECTION, 222
G 196 213
GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY, 183
211 218 226 318
GAS-COUPLED LASER
ACOUSTIC DETECTION, 192
GEL PERMEATION
CHROMATOGRAPHY, 41 82
183 237
GEL POINT, 23 111 146 181 212
231 270
GEL TIME, 95 131 145 152 212
213 219 231 289
GELATION, 2 18 32 60 95 105
123 146 152 156 159 181 212
213 215 233 274 288 304
GLASS CONTENT, 211 270
GLASS FABRIC, 57 211 302
GLASS FABRIC-REINFORCED,
82 211 214
GLASS FIBRE, 21 57 84 139 150
217 225 243 257 297 307
GLASS FIBRE-REINFORCED
PLASTIC, 5 20 21 28 31 44 62
63 71 74 78 80 82 94 100 109
116 120 128 138 139 144 149
150 152 159 161 167 173 179
181 184 189 193 196 199 202
204 206 211 212 213 217 220
225 227 228 233 239 240 243
259 260 267 269 270 272 273
276 280 282 285 286 291 297
298 302 303 307 311
GLASS MAT, 21 152 159 239 270
102
Subject Index
GLASS TRANSITION
TEMPERATURE, 5 10 14 19
26 36 47 52 56 57 59 71 74 76
84 100 110 115 116 131 132
141 181 182 183 199 204 212
213 221 229 258 262 289 296
304 308 310 315 321 330
GLASSY, 11 55 161 213 304
GRAPHITE FIBRE, 309
GRAPHITE FIBRE-
REINFORCED PLASTIC, 25
33 42 101 108 119 123 136 147
172 182 249 258 266 301 302
GRAVIMETRIC ANALYSIS, 3
128
H INFUSION MOULDING, 80
HALL EFFECT, 138 317
HARDNESS, 15 128 152 270 318
HARMONIC, 133
HEAT AGEING, 218 289 304 315
HEAT CURING, 141 152 204
HEAT DEGRADATION, 3 87 118
HEAT FLOW, 22 56 133 141 160
212 310
HEAT FLUX, 29 30
HEAT GENERATION, 194 208
233 303
HEAT OF REACTION, 14 135 258
279 303 321
HEAT RESISTANCE, 76 82 87
128 204 218 247
HEAT TRANSFER, 28 30 59 89
125 137 147 159 160 185 224
233 279 303 304 310
HEATING, 56 74 77 84 133 152
186 199 213 233 239 258 276
289 298 303 304 315 321
HEATING RATE, 22 56 183 213
258 303 304 315 321 330
HELICOPTER, 153
HEXAMETHYLENE
TETRAMINE, 93 264
HIGH PERFORMANCE LIQUID
CHROMATOGRAPHY, 67
HOT CURING, 141 152 204
HOT MELT ADHESIVE, 48 218
HOUSING, 199
HYDROXYETHYL
METHACRYLATE
POLYMER, 157 195
HYDROXYPROPYL
METHACRYLATE
COPOLYMER, 306
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
I
IMPACT PROPERTIES, 80 193
296 321
IMPEDANCE, 83 97 132 158 227
270
IMPREGNATION, 165 246 301
302
IN-MOULD CURING, 212 246
284 285
IN-MOULD MEASUREMENT,
198 249
IN-SITU, 23 37 56 63 103 127 144
181 214 222 233 238 251 253
256 259 274 278 279 283 301
302 309 312 315 320 322 323
324
INITIATOR, 16 18 24 49
INJECTION MOULD, 227 233
INJECTION MOULDING, 228
242
INTEGRATED CIRCUIT, 287 310
INTELLIGENT PROCESSING, 97
223 301
INTERCALATION, 32
INTERFACE, 7 73 82 133 227 257
259 262 312
INTERFACIAL PROPERTIES, 57
109
INTERFEROMETRY, 25 42 43
173 191 271
INTERLAMINAR SHEAR, 82 128
181
INTERNAL REFLECTION
SPECTROSCOPY, 191
INTERPHASE, 63 82 217 259 297
ION MOBILITY, 37 228 288 304
315
IONIC CONDUCTIVITY, 167 212
274 315 322
IONIC RESISTIVITY, 212
IR ANALYSIS, 133 318
IR SENSOR, 249
IR SPECTROSCOPY, 5 9 12 24 36
38 41 51 56 59 69 75 76 81 82
85 93 109 114 121 128 154 189
205 206 207 211 240 257 264
269 273 278 307 320 324 329
IRRADIATION CURING, 38
ISOCYANATE, 9 213
ISOCYANURATE, 213
ISOPHTHALIC POLYESTER
RESIN, 270
ISOTHERM, 10 146 315
ISOTHERMAL, 5 14 47 56 82 84
88 127 139 145 149 211 212
213 221 222 256 258 262 279

292 303 304 310 321
ISOTHERMAL CALORIMETRY,
2 MACHINERY, 15 98 152 159 199
ISOTROPIC, 17 159 233
J MAGNETIC RESONANCE
JOINT, 34 131 132 133
K MATERIALS SELECTION, 2 21
KEVLAR, 113
KINETICS, 2 3 14 16 22 24 30 31
35 37 47 81 82 88 89 111 128
135 137 139 146 147 150 159
160 186 231 264 269 276 278
297 328 330
KRAFT LIGNIN, 264
L 234 235 247 255 269 276 278
LAMINATE, 30 73 78 80 82 120
129 142 147 152 194 202 220
278 296 319 324 326 327
LAMINATION, 153 216 278 309
LANGIVIN EQUATION, 3 16 17
19 20 22 30 32 34 40 47 50 54
LAP SHEAR, 15 67 130 131
LAP SHEAR STRENGTH, 46 205
218 250
LARGE-COMPONENT, 31 159
LASER, 25 129 257 266
LASER LIGHT SCATTERING,
252
LIGHT INTENSITY, 16 17 200
256 259 308
LIGHT REFLECTION, 200 256
257
LIGNIN, 264
LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY,
67
LIQUID COMPOSITE
MOULDING, 35 211 233 234
LIQUID CRYSTAL, 1 17 90
LIQUID MOULDING, 18 35 54 66
94 168 211 243
LITHOGRAPHY, 225 307
LONGITUDINAL ACOUSTIC
MODE, 182
LOSS FACTOR, 19 64 74 128 212
328
LOSS TANGENT, 19 23 64 74 128
161 212 304
LOW VISCOSITY, 146 152
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Subject Index
M MISSILE, 252
211 227 232 233 239 246 279
280 287 298 302 303 326
MAGNETIC FIELD, 138 317
IMAGING, 72
MARINE APPLICATION, 148 181
MASS SPECTROMETRY, 85 211
280
MATHEMATICAL MODEL, 6 14
29 30 44 62 71 77 108 113 185
212 300 302 319
MDI, 46 213
MEASUREMENT, 13 14 15 20 26
48 52 54 55 64 66 95 141 142
143 158 162 163 167 177 182
192 202 204 212 215 218 227
283 285 294 309 317 318 322
323 324
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, 4
6 16 21 27 33 34 36 39 41 42
43 46 48 52 53 55 58 60 67 76
79 80 82 84 87 99 100 101 104
107 110 114 118 119 120 121
126 127 128 129 130 131 132
133 134 138 140 145 146 148
152 153 158 159 161 163 171
173 179 181 182 183 188 190
193 194 196 197 200 205 206
213 219 221 226 229 240 266
270 279 286 289 294 296 298
303 304 307 308 310 311 318
321 324 325
MECHANICAL
SPECTROSCOPY, 231
MEDICAL APPLICATION, 1 7 23
53 195 203 237
METAL ADHESION, 79 133
METAL INSERT, 199
METERING, 98
METHACRYLATE, 250
METHACRYLIC ESTER
POLYMER, 72 188 205
MICRODIELECTRIC
PROPERTIES, 88
MICRODIELECTROMETRY, 46
66 167 212
MICROELECTRODE, 181
MICROSENSOR, 181
MICROWAVE CURING, 118 299
MICROWAVE DYNAMIC
DIELECTRIC ANALYSIS, 328
MILITARY APPLICATION, 80
198
MIXING, 60 65 98 133 152 199
212 242
MODEL, 22 35 50 52 59 77 88 89
96 118 120 121 125 132 137
142 146 147 149 159 160 180
194 202 212 217 220 223 233
234 235 238 270 274 276 279
281 288 292 295 297 301 302
303 307 313 316 321
MODULATED DIFFERENTIAL
SCANNING CALORIMETRY,
56
MODULUS, 36 84 120 197 213
304 307 310 318
MOLECULAR STRUCTURE, 12
16 41 45 57 76 82 89 90 109
128 131 196 206 212 221 230
236 237 240 273 278 304 305
308 315
MOLECULAR WEIGHT, 183 206
307 308
MORPHOLOGY, 17 76 129 131
241 244
MOULD, 143 152 159 211 227 233
239 279 280 302 303
MOULD COOLING, 29 122
MOULD CYCLE, 159 239
MOULD DESIGN, 159 280
MOULD FILLING, 66 111 112
159 165 198 199 211 228 233
239 279 302
MOULD FLOW, 159 165 233
MOULD HEATING, 152 279
MOULD SHRINKAGE, 159
MOULD TEMPERATURE, 35 152
159 199 233 260 303
MOULDING, 1 7 8 21 25 27 29 30
35 66 80 92 94 98 105 111 112
125 129 152 153 155 159 162
165 167 174 179 180 189 192
198 199 201 204 207 208 234
239 245 246 264 280 282 284
300
MOULDING FAULT, 239
MOULDING PRESSURE, 159 302
MULTILAYER, 159 227 250
N
NANOCOMPOSITE, 1 7 32
NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED
PLASTIC, 93
NAVAL CONSTRUCTION, 133
NEAR-INFRARED
SPECTROSCOPY, 5 56 207
238 283 320
NETWORK, 16 87 89 212 258 318
103

NON-DESTRUCTIVE SENSING,
192
NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING,
40 63 86 103 104 123 127 129
132 133 154 166 169 177 178
192 209 266 270
NOVOLAC RESIN, 75 82 264
NUCLEAR MAGNETIC
RESONANCE, 72 139 157 164
178 221 277 297 312 318
O PHOTOINITIATOR, 16 24 49 308
OFFSHORE APPLICATION, 1
148
ON-LINE CONTROL SYSTEM, 8
ON-LINE MEASUREMENT, 20
167 192 212 235 284 285 315
327
ONE-COMPONENT, 152 218 310
OPTIC FIBRE, 6 25 36 56 65 83
104 122 124 136 148 172 176
184 189 191 193 200 207 211
214 222 234 236 238 243 246
249 251 252 253 256 257 259
267 268 271 278 283 309 320
324
OPTICAL ANALYSIS, 65 257
OPTICAL PROPERTIES, 16 36 51
69 152 176 184 211 217 236
243 256 257 259 266 273 281
298 305 308 320
OPTICAL SENSOR, 256 257
OPTIMISATION, 10 15 29 50 52
96 120 134 149 169 175 179
223 244 270
ORTHOPAEDIC APPLICATION,
53 183
ORTHOPHTHALIC POLYESTER
RESIN, 152
P POLYDIMETHACRYLATE, 205
PACKAGING, 1 7
PAINT, 89 216
PANEL, 147
PAPER-REINFORCED PLASTIC,
319
PEEL STRENGTH, 9 39 48 131
250
PERMEABILITY, 54 159 211 233
279 302
PERMITTIVITY, 64 132 181 212
255 279 288 304 306 315 322
328
PHARMACEUTICAL
APPLICATION, 102
104
Subject Index
PHENOL-FORMALDEHYDE
RESIN, 75 139
PHENOLIC RESIN, 82 87 199 250
271 298 319
PHENYLMALEIMIDE, 87
PHOTOCALORIMETRY, 307
PHOTOCURING, 49 51 225 231
307 308 329
PHOTODETECTOR, 257
PHOTODYNAMIC
MECHANICAL ANALYSIS,
225 307
329
PHOTOLITHOGRAPHY, 225
PHOTOMICROGRAPHY, 202
PHOTOPOLYMERISATION, 16
17 24 51 67 69 72 329
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES, 36 84
89 196 261 286
PICTURE FRAME, 301
PIEZOELECTRIC, 133 158 169
197 270
PIPE, 21 149
PLAQUE, 181 211 227
PLASTICISATION, 56 132 239
PLASTICISER, 183
POLYACRYLATE, 17 24 38 39 51
250 307 329
POLYACRYLIC, 183
POLYACRYLIC ACID, 140
POLYAMIC ACID, 256
POLYBISMALEIMIDE, 221 229
321
POLYBISMALEIMIDE
TRIAZINE, 278
POLYBUTYLHYDROXYCYCLOHEXYL
METHACRYLATE, 157
POLYCYANATE, 229
POLYCYANATE ESTER, 258
POLYCYCLOPENTADIENE, 286
POLYDICYANATE, 244
277 313
POLYDIMETHYLSILOXANE,
308
POLYDIPHENYLMETHANE-
DIISOCYANATE, 88
POLYEPOXIDE, 2 3 5 6 7 10 11
12 13 14 15 19 21 22 25 27 28
33 34 41 42 43 44 45 47 53 55
56 58 60 61 62 63 65 70 71 73
74 77 78 79 81 84 86 90 94 95
99 100 101 103 107 108 109
110 113 115 116 117 119 123
124 126 127 128 131 132 133
135 136 139 141 145 147 149
150 151 152 154 155 156 163
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
164 167 170 171 172 176 178
179 181 182 184 185 186 187
189 190 193 196 199 200 202
204 211 212 213 214 215 217
222 227 249
POLYEPOXY ACRYLATE, 49 225
250 307
POLYESTER ACRYLATE, 250
POLYESTER RESIN, 59 138 144
152 161 282
POLYESTER-URETHANE, 311
POLYETHER ACRYLATE, 250
POLYETHER-URETHANE, 311
POLYETHERIMIDE, 26
POLYETHYL METHACRYLATE,
160 237
POLYHYDROXYETHYL
METHACRYLATE, 157 195
POLYIMIDE, 57 76 170 181 187
247 248 249 252 255 256 278
324
POLYISOCYANATE, 9 46 84 88
POLYISOCYANURATE, 166 189
231
POLYMER CONCRETE, 1
POLYMER DISPERSED LIQUID
CRYSTAL, 17
POLYMERISATION, 16 17 24 32
51 67 69 72 82 127 158 160
252 318
POLYMERISATION KINETICS,
16 24 37 47 160 237 329
POLYMETHACRYLATE, 72 188
205 250 313
POLYMETHYL
METHACRYLATE, 32 172 183
270
POLYTRIACRYLATE, 39
POLYTRIAZINE, 315
POLYUREA, 46
POLYURETHANE, 21 23 24 37
152 166 172 184 219 268 291
298 311
POLYURETHANE ACRYLATE,
250 307
POLYURETHANE
DIACRYLATE, 24
POLYVINYL ESTER, 7 18 31 59
61 94 120 226 262 270 291 298
POROSITY, 133 140 159 192 233
279 328
POST CURING, 34 270 304 329
POT LIFE, 34 204 310
PREFORM, 21 94 98 137 152 155
159 166 198 199 211 233 234
243 257 279 301 302
PREPOLYMER, 17 37 81 212 229
308

PREPREG, 2 5 10 14 20 22 26 47
70 73 78 83 86 95 139 146 147
149 153 154 202 204 212 215
224 229 250 256 258 278 289
304 309 321
PRESS MOULDING, 153 204
PRESSURE, 21 142 146 153 159
202 211 227 233 278 279 291
298 299 302
PRESSURE-SENSITIVE
ADHESIVE, 9 39 48
PRESSURE SENSOR, 142
PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD, 78
PROBE, 16 51 69 133 200 211 214
251 256 257 259 268 283 289
PROCESS CONTROL, 8 56 143
167 179 199 201 202 212 239
249 252 267 281 285 298 301
320 327
PROCESSING, 8 18 21 25 52 69
76 78 80 94 96 103 104 116 118
120 134 141 142 145 167 175
179 180 190 193 194 201 223
224 234 253 280 281 282 283
284 291 292 299 322 323 324
327
PRODUCTION CONTROL, 282
PROFILE, 20 82 133 298
PROSTHESIS, 160
PULL-OUT, 15
PULSE ECHO, 133
PULSED NMR, 139 164
PULTRUSION, 50 96 185 192 246
276 291 298
Q 279 284 301 302 315
QUALITY CONTROL, 23 29 54
96 102 129 143 146 153 166
170 184 228 239 245 252 260
263 275 282 289 291 298 299
327
QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS, 12
259
QUARTZ, 152 217 256
QUARTZ FIBRE, 225 307
R 151 152 155 158 159 181 187
RADIATION CURING, 34 72 329
RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY, 3 187
214 237 251 283 305
RATE CONSTANT, 24 61 111 146
150 264 279 303 304
REACTION, 3 22 82 141 327
REACTION CONDITIONS, 17
221
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Subject Index
REACTION INJECTION
MOULDING, 233 242 285
REACTION RATE, 3 78 146 150
221 247 248 255 261 327
REACTIVE MELT ADHESIVE,
218
REACTIVITY, 2 23 48 131 152
188 204 205 212 259 282 289
329
REAL TIME, 16 25 48 60 69 167
181 214 222 244 247 251 252
285 320 327 329
REFLECTION ABSORPTION
SPECTROSCOPY, 12
REFRACTIVE INDEX, 36 124
173 176 191 211 234 236 238
243 249 253 257 259 320
REJECT, 153 239
RELAXATION TIME, 74 132 212
289 304 315
REPAIR PATCH, 52 119
REPAIRING, 21 52
RESIDUAL MONOMER, 152 183
277
RESIDUAL STRESS, 27 33 52 99
119 126 134 324
RESIN FILM INFUSION, 137
RESIN IMPREGNATION, 298
RESIN INFUSION, 31 59 137
RESIN INJECTION, 98 152 159
199 211 233 279 302
RESIN TRANSFER MOULDING,
8 21 25 27 29 30 35 66 80 92
94 98 105 111 125 129 152 155
159 165 174 179 180 192 198
199 201 207 242 249 257 265
RESISTIVITY, 64 73 215 292
RESOLE RESIN, 82
RESONANCE, 79 133 270
RESORCINOL RESIN, 241
RESORCINOL-
FORMALDEHYDE RESIN,
241
RETARDER, 18
RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES, 7
20 23 34 36 45 69 76 78 80 90
111 114 117 121 129 143 146
194 197 199 201 204 210 212
213 218 219 221 227 233 239
253 259 270 279 289 292 294
302 303 304 308 310 315 324
RHEOLOGY, 45 76 78 80 90 117
146 151 152 158 159 181 187
201 212 213 219 227 292 294
324
RHEOMETER, 23 304
RHEOMETRY, 114 146 304
RIGIDITY, 63 213 328
ROSIN ESTER, 39
RUBBER, 4 7 19 21 36 75 85 97
129 130 131 132 177 219 227
287 293 295 307 308 311 318
RUBBER-MODIFIED, 61 131
S
SANDWICH PANEL, 147
SANDWICH STRUCTURE, 152
153 199 285
SCANNING ELECTRON
MICROSCOPY, 124 183 241
SECONDARY ION MASS
SPECTROSCOPY, 85
SENSITIVITY, 197 320
SENSOR, 6 13 20 29 30 37 40 60
64 65 66 83 94 97 104 106 112
115 122 123 124 136 137 142
143 148 153 155 170 173 174
176 181 184 190 191 192 198
200 210 211 212 222 227 236
243 246 247 248 249 252 253
255 256 257 259 260 270 271
274 278 279 281 283 290 291
298 301 302 303 316 317 320
322 323 324 327 328
SHEAR, 34 127 130 131 133 145
146 181 304 307
SHEAR MODULUS, 16 127 145
213 304 307 318 325
SHEAR PROPERTIES, 48 67 114
146 181 190 325
SHEAR RATE, 121 159
SHEAR STRENGTH, 46 48 67
181 190 205 218 229
SHEET, 95 239 270
SHEET MOULDING
COMPOUND, 143 161 208 239
245 246 260 282 300 303 316
SHELF LIFE, 34 204 215 289 310
SHIPBUILDING, 1 133
SHORT FIBRE, 4 307
SHRINKAGE, 36 60 72 99 100
117 120 126 152 159 163 228
SILANE, 63 132 307 311
SILICA, 78 131 152 217 238
SILICA FIBRE, 320
SILICONE, 227
SIMULATION, 35 50 59 105 112
120 133 134 137 146 147 155
159 160 168 179 180 194 217
220 223 227 233 270 302 303
310
SINGLE-COMPONENT, 152 218
SIZING, 57 61 204 311
105

SMALL ANGLE LIGHT
SCATTERING, 17
SMART FIBRE, 148
SMART MATERIAL, 1 200 290
320
SOFTWARE, 64 102 143 159 198
210 224 239 247 287 328
SOUND ATTENUATION, 270
SOUND VELOCITY, 227
SPECTROMETER, 102 187 217
SPECTROSCOPY, 3 9 11 12 15 16
37 46 48 56 63 82 168 170 172
176 187 191 203 205 211 214
217 221 249 265 297 313 318
325
SPRAY-UP, 267
SPRAYING, 246
STABILITY, 36 82 87 128 147
STANDARD, 95 285
STIFFNESS, 104 145 181 271 285
289 304
STORAGE MODULUS, 23 27 145
161 261 304 307
STORAGE STABILITY, 91 215
310
STRAIN, 6 27 33 60 83 104 119
122 146 173 191 200 205 325
STRAIN GAUGE, 33 119
STRAIN RATE, 80 146 148
STRAIN SENSOR, 148
STRESS, 27 33 52 99 120 126 134
213 304 307 308
STRESS-STRAIN PROPERTIES,
27 42 43 52 60 99 100 101 119
120 193 200 308
STRUCTURAL ADHESIVE, 60
107 130 131 132 250
STRUCTURAL COMPOSITE, 97
289 302
STRUCTURAL PART, 31
STYRENE, 59 121 152 246
SULFORHODAMINE, 259
SURFACE MOUNT DEVICE, 34
SURFACE PROPERTIES, 188 311
SURGICAL ADHESIVE, 140
SURGICAL APPLICATION, 183
SYNTHETIC FIBRE-
REINFORCED PLASTIC, 113
291 304
T 196 206 240 269 310
TAN DELTA, 128 213 304
TANNIN, 68
TAPE, 95 229
TEMPERATURE CONTROL, 29
30 35 228 233 234 281
TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE,
106
Subject Index
35 62 139 146 149 194 212 231
279 292 303 304 315
TEMPERATURE
DISTRIBUTION, 149 159 190
279 302
TEMPERATURE GRADIENT,
279 303
TEMPERATURE MODULATED
DIFFERENTIAL SCANNING
CALORIMETRY, 10
TEMPERATURE PROBE, 200
TEMPERATURE PROFILE, 276
303 310
TENSILE PROPERTIES, 4 21 36
41 138 200 226 304 307 308
325
TEST EQUIPMENT, 6 32 105 106
112 154 182 187 216 219 251
293 304 309 328
TEST METHOD, 19 21 23 34 95
133 138 141 177 192 218 285
TEST SPECIMEN, 16 19 183 289
TEXTILE-REINFORCED, 279
302
THERMAL ANALYSIS, 3 10 26
28 53 56 65 85 92 93 105 110
111 116 121 124 125 131 135
144 146 149 156 181 212 226
258 279 287 304 310 315 321
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY, 62
133 149 159 194 208 209 276
298 310
THERMAL CYCLING, 132 199
289
THERMAL DEGRADATION, 3
87 118 196 213 218 233 258
266
THERMAL PROPERTIES, 14 26
28 56 58 76 113 119 131 132
133 149 151 159 179 181 182
183 194 195 209 212 213 220
233 237 240 258 269 276 289
300 303 304 308 310 315 321
327
THERMAL STABILITY, 76 82 87
128 204 218 229 247 286
THERMOCOUPLE, 20 97 190 271
279 298
THERMOGRAM, 56 82 128 321
THERMOGRAVIMETRIC
ANALYSIS, 3 14 41 75 76 128
THERMOMECHANICAL
ANALYSIS, 68
THICKNESS, 11 29 30 120 132
133 147 153 160 167 180 182
194 202 220 223 227 233 239
247 255 267 270 275 279 282
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
285 300 302 303 316
THICKNESS GAUGE, 317
THIN FILM, 11 12 13 153 256
TIME TEMPERATURE
SUPERPOSITION
PRINCIPLE, 132
TIME TEMPERATURE
TRANSFORMATION, 10 68
70
TORSIONAL BRAID ANALYSIS,
70 213 330
TOTAL INTERNAL
REFLECTION, 253
TOUGHENING, 131 244 321
TOUGHNESS, 76 79 84 131 190
213 229
TOW, 233
TRACER, 259 302
TRANSDUCER, 106 133 211 227
228 285
TRANSFER MOULD, 290
TRANSFER MOULDING, 8 21 25
27 29 30 35 66 80 92 94 98 105
111 125 129 189
TRANSMISSION ELECTRON
MICROSCOPY, 124
TRIACRYLATE POLYMER, 39
TRIALLYL ISOCYANURATE,
231
TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL
DIMETHACRYLATE, 67
TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL
DIMETHACRYLATE
COPOLYMER, 277
TUBING, 251
TWO-COMPONENT, 228 250 310
TWO-STAGE, 310 315
U
ULTRASONIC, 114 129 158 182
248 249 271
ULTRASONIC CURING, 210
ULTRASONIC HEATING, 77
ULTRASONIC PROPERTIES, 55
80
ULTRASONIC SCANNING, 133
227 247
ULTRASONIC TEST, 8 19 25 106
107 123 127 133 136 162 164
270 285 318
ULTRASONIC VELOCITY, 227
270
ULTRASONIC WAVE, 55 133 145
ULTRASOUND ANALYSIS, 227
UNCURED, 131 227 258 289 312
UNDERCURE, 133 303
UNDERGROUND PIPE, 21
 Subject Index

UNDERWATER APPLICATION, 1 W
UNSATURATED POLYESTER,
20 21 59 109 114 121 138 144 WARPAGE, 52 153 228
152 161 162 169 199 226 245 WATER, 63 67 128 181 227 262
270 272 282 285 291 298 300 270
303 304 316 WAVEGUIDE, 132 238 251 257
UREA-FORMALDEHYDE 278 324
RESIN, 261 WAVELENGTH, 133 211 227 256
URETHANE DIACRYLATE, 39 257 259 266
UV CURING, 15 16 17 24 34 36 WETTING, 21 173 199 294
38 39 48 49 69 102 143 225 WOOD, 1 46 68 88
250 293 307 308 WOVEN FIBRE, 120
UV SPECTROSCOPY, 172 256
X
V
X-RAY DIFFRACTION, 90 107
VACUUM, 21 80 211 246 140
VACUUM BAG, 153
VACUUM CASTING, 242
VACUUM-ASSISTED Y
TRANSFER MOULDING, 94 YOUNG’S MODULUS, 27 121
VEHICLE, 198 127 145 181 182 183 225
VEHICLE SHELL, 116
VEHICLE SUSPENSION, 199
VIBRATING NEEDLE
CUREMETER, 219
VIBRATION, 77 191 270
VIBRATIONAL
SPECTROSCOPY, 3 12 24 56
69 75 187 211 214 283
VINYL ESTER RESIN, 7 18 59 94
120 262 270
VISCOELASTIC PROPERTIES,
19 52 158 177 270
VISCOSITY, 20 23 34 36 45 69
111 114 121 143 146 151 152
155 159 181 187 194 197 199
204 210 212 213 218 221 227
232 233 247 248 250 253 255
259 263 270 279 285 288 289
290 291 292 294 298 301 302
303 304 308 310 315 324 328
VITRIFICATION, 10 11 60 66 68
146 181 209 212 213 215 259
274 288 304

© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited 107

 Subject Index

108 © Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited


3M CORP., 227
A BULK MOLDING COMPOUNDS
AALBORG,UNIVERSITY, 5
ADVANCED FUEL RESEARCH
INC., 187
AEA TECHNOLOGY, 324
AEROSPATIALE SA, 146
AGUSTA SPA, 110
AHMADU BELLO,UNIVERSITY,
261
AKZO NOBEL CHEMICALS SA,
152
AMERICAN COMPOSITES
MANUFACTURING
LEARNING CENTER, 280
AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR
TESTING & MATERIALS, 95
AOO NPO STEKLOPLASTIK -
NPK KOMPOZIT, 2
APPLIED COMPUTING
TECHNOLOGY INC., 102
ARGENTINA,NATIONAL
RESEARCH COUNCIL, 183
ATHENS,NATIONAL
TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY,
264
AUBURN INTERNATIONAL
INC., 300
AUXIRIBAT, 167
B MINES, 222
BAM, 8
BATH,UNIVERSITY, 93
BAUSCH & LOMB INC., 157
BELARUS ACADEMY OF
SCIENCES, 81
BELGRADE,UNIVERSITY, 322
BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON
CANADA, 144
BP CHEMICALS LTD., 315
BPD DIFESA E SPAZIO, 289
BRIGHAM YOUNG
UNIVERSITY, 215
BRIGHT R.F.,ENTERPRISES
LTD., 242
BRISTOL,UNIVERSITY, 126 163
BRITISH
COLUMBIA,UNIVERSITY,
142
BROOKLYN,POLYTECHNIC
UNIVERSITY, 322
© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited
Company Index
Company Index
BRUNEL UNIVERSITY, 176 193
200 236
BUEHNEN H.,KG, 294
INC., 228
C 253 317 327
CALIFORNIA,CENTER FOR
APPLIED REHABILITATION
TECHNOLOGY, 53
CALIFORNIA,UNIVERSITY, 31
61 108 241
CANADA,NATIONAL
RESEARCH COUNCIL, 114
119 136 182
CASA, 56
CASE WESTERN RESERVE
UNIVERSITY, 297 312
CATANIA,UNIVERSITY, 292
CHIBA,UNIVERSITY, 41
CIBA, 274
CIBA POLYMERS, 250
CIRA ITALIAN CENTRE FOR
AEROSPACE RESEARCH,
124
CLEMSON,UNIVERSITY, 225
307
CNR, 115
COCHIN,UNIVERSITY OF
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY,
4 ECOLE POLYTECHNIQUE DE
COLORADO,SCHOOL OF
COMTECH GMBH, 85
CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, 122
136 182
CONNECTICUT,UNIVERSITY,
172 175 187 217 268
COOPERATIVE RESEARCH
CENTRE FOR ADVANCED
COMPOSITE STRUCTURES
LTD, 19 147
CRANFIELD INSTITUTE OF
TECHNOLOGY, 288
CRANFIELD,UNIVERSITY, 43
60 65 66 104 125 176 181 190
191 254 274
CSIC, 16 51
CSIR,MININGTEK, 134
CSIRO, 154
CYTEC INDUSTRIES INC., 263
D
DAGESTAN,STATE
PEDAGOGICAL
UNIVERSITY, 139
DASA, 86
DAYTON,UNIVERSITY, 33 170
DEK DYNE INC., 302
DELAWARE,UNIVERSITY, 18 29
30 94 112 120 180 186 192 201
223
DERA, 130
DET NORSKE VERITAS, 133
DHC ANALYSIS, 293
DIEFFENBACHER GMBH &
CO., 239
DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORP.,
278 310
DRESDEN,INSTITUT FUER
POLYMERFORSCHUNG, 141
DSM DESOTECH, 15 36 38
DUBLIN,TRINITY COLLEGE,
157 306
DUBLIN,UNIVERSITY, 295 314
E
ECOLE NATIONALE
SUPERIEURE DE CHIMIE DE
MULHOUSE, 24
MONTREAL, 311
ENICHEM AMERICA INC., 84
213
ENICHEM SPA, 84 213
ENSAM, 71
ERLANGEN,UNIVERSITAT, 34
F
FIBER & SENSOR
TECHNOLOGIES INC., 173
FIRENZE,UNIVERSITA, 58
FRAUNHOFER-INSTITUT FUER
ZERSTORUNGSFREIE
PRUFVERFAHREN, 133
FREUDENBERG-NOK, 75
G
GE AIRCRAFT ENGINES, 170
GEORGIA,INSTITUTE OF
TECHNOLOGY, 27 117
109
 Company Index

GUJARAT,SARDAR PATEL IUT CHIMIE DE BESANCON, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA,

UNIVERSITY, 128 188 205 271
LOUISIANA,SOUTHERN
UNIVERSITY, 22 149
H J LOUISIANA,STATE
HARBIN,INSTITUTE OF JAPAN,INSTITUTE OF SPACE & UNIVERSITY, 22 149
TECHNOLOGY, 43 ASTRONAUTICAL SCIENCE, LULEA,UNIVERSITY OF
HAUTE-ALSACE,UNIVERSITE, 76 TECHNOLOGY, 220
24 JAPAN,NATIONAL INSTITUTE LYON,INSTITUT NATIONAL
HEBEI,UNIVERSITY OF OF ADVANCED DES SCIENCES
TECHNOLOGY, 49 INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE & APPLIQUEES, 169
HEFEI,UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOL, 40 LYON,UNIVERSITE, 273
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, JAPAN,NATIONAL INSTITUTE
32 OF MATERIALS & M
HEXCEL COMPOSITE CHEMICAL RESEARCH, 103
MATERIALS, 131 JAUME I,UNIVERSITAT, 113 MADRID,UNIVERSIDAD
HEXCEL COMPOSITES, 56 JENTEK SENSORS INC., 13 CARLOS III, 16 63 69
HEXCEL CORP., 328 JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY, MADRID,UNIVERSIDAD
HITACHI KASEI POLYMER 118 168 211 234 243 249 257 POLITECNICA, 272
CO.LTD., 41 JORDANSTOWN,UNIVERSITY MAINE,UNIVERSITY, 319
HOLOMETRIX, 143 OF ULSTER, 296 MALAYSIA,UNIVERSITY, 161
HOLOMETRIX MICROMET, 64 MANCHESTER,METROPOLITAN
106 UNIVERSITY, 107 164 178
HUGHES MISSILE SYSTEMS
K MANCHESTER,UNIVERSITY,
CO., 244 KAISERSLAUTERN,UNIVERSITY, 277
73 MAR DEL PLATA,UNIVERSITY,
183
I KDC TECHNOLOGY CORP., 328
MATHIS INSTRUMENTS LTD.,
KEELE,UNIVERSITY, 107 164
ICI FIBERITE, 215 178 209
ICI TECHNOLOGY, 135 KINGSTON,QUEEN’S MATRASUR, 267
ICTPOL/IST, 72 UNIVERSITY, 144 MICHIGAN,STATE
IFREMER, 181 KOREA,ADVANCED UNIVERSITY, 57 99 221 233
IKV, 8 291 298 INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE & MICHIGAN,UNIVERSITY, 262
ILLINOIS,UNIVERSITY, 194 TECHNOLOGY, 6 20 21 42 44 MICROMET INSTRUMENTS
INDIAN PETROCHEMICAL 235 INC., 165 198 210 216 245 247
CORP.LTD., 1 7 KUMOH,NATIONAL 248 255 260 282 303 316
INSA, 158 270 UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA,UNIVERSITY, 72
INSTITUT DE CHIMIE DES TECHNOLOGY, 57 281
SURFACES ET INTERFACES, KYOTO,INSTITUTE OF MISSISSIPPI,UNIVERSITY, 276
188 205 TECHNOLOGY, 208 MISSOURI-
INSTITUT FUER ROLLA,UNIVERSITY, 35
OBERFLAECHEN- MONASH,UNIVERSITY, 19 147
MODIFIZIERUNG, 48
L 320
INSTITUT FUER LABEN SPA, 58
VERBUNDWERKSTOFFE LECCE,UNIVERSITA, 55 127 145 N
GMBH, 197 239 292
INSTITUTO DE CIENCIA Y LEHIGH UNIVERSITY, 232 NANCY I,UNIVERSITY, 68
TECNOLOGIA DE LESCON INC., 219 NANTES,LABORATOIRE DE
POLIMEROS, 69 LIMERICK,UNIVERSITY, 91 THERMOCINETIQUE, 28
ISITEM, 62 LJUBLJANA,UNIVERSITY, 203 NANYANG,TECHNOLOGICAL
ITALIAN AEROSPACE LOCKHEED ENGINEERING & UNIVERSITY, 43 50 147 194
RESEARCH CENTRE, 115 SCIENCES CO., 155 279 301 299
ITALY,INSTITUTE FOR 302 315 NAPLES,UNIVERSITY, 90 115
COMPOSITE MATERIALS LOCTITE, 51 69 188 205 295 306 127 160 321
TECHNOLOGY, 124 308 313 314 329 NAPOLI,UNIVERSITA, 292 322
ITALY,NATIONAL RESEARCH LONDON,UNIVERSITY, 237 323
COUNCIL, 90 LOS ANGELES,UNIVERSITY OF NAPOLI,UNIVERSITA

110 © Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited

 Company Index

FEDERICO II, 124 145 287 SPE, 129

NASA, 149 QUEEN MARY & WESTFIELD ST.LOUIS,WASHINGTON
NATAL,UNIVERSITY, 134 COLLEGE, 160 UNIVERSITY, 275
NATIONAL RESEARCH QUEENSLAND,UNIVERSITY STRATHCLYDE,UNIVERSITY,
COUNCIL OF CANADA, 52 OF TECHNOLOGY, 154 230 132
121 122 123 129 STUTTGART,UNIVERSITY, 74
NATIONAL STARCH & 79
CHEMICAL CO., 218
R SUNG KYUN
NEW RAPRA TECHNOLOGY LTD., KWAN,UNIVERSITY, 47
BRUNSWICK,UNIVERSITY, 219 318 SURREY,UNIVERSITY, 229
52 209 RENAULT, 167 SWEDISH INSTITUTE OF
NORTH CAROLINA,STATE RENAULT SA, 212 COMPOSITES, 220
UNIVERSITY, 231 RHEO TECHNOLOGY SWISS FEDERAL INSTITUTE
NORTH DAKOTA STATE CONSULTING, 159 OF TECHNOLOGY, 54
UNIVERSITY, 80 94 RHODE ISLAND,UNIVERSITY, SYDNEY,UNIVERSITY, 185 197
NORTH TEXAS,UNIVERSITY, 278
10 150 156
NORTHWESTERN
ROHR INC., 271 T
RUSSIAN ACADEMY OF
UNIVERSITY, 25 27 SCIENCES, 2 139 TA INSTRUMENTS INC., 23
NOTTINGHAM,UNIVERSITY, RUST COLLEGE, 276 TAIWAN,CHANG GUNG
107 UNIVERSITY OF
TECHNOLOGY, 195
S
O TAIWAN,NATIONAL CHIAO-
SAARLANDES,UNIVERSITAT, TUNG UNIVERSITY, 111
OAK RIDGE NATIONAL 11 12 TARBIAT MODARRES
LABORATORY, 266 SAKARYA,UNIVERSITY, 119 UNIVERSITY, 151
OHIO,STATE UNIVERSITY, 59 SARDAR PATEL UNIVERSITY, TBI, 21
77 78 196 206 TENNESSEE,UNIVERSITY, 99
OKLAHOMA,UNIVERSITY, 232 SARTOMER CO., 39 100 101
OSAKA,CITY UNIVERSITY, 83 SEKISUI CHEMICAL CO.LTD., TEXAS,ARLINGTON
208 UNIVERSITY, 73
TEXAS,UNIVERSITY AT
P SENSOR PRODUCTS INC., 153
AUSTIN, 14
SEOUL,SOGANG UNIVERSITY,
PALERMO,UNIVERSITY, 135 45 TOHO,UNIVERSITY, 76
PARIS,ECOLE DES MINES, 17 SERAM, 212 TOKYO,NIHON UNIVERSITY,
PASTIS-CNRSM, 55 127 145 SHELL, 215 76
PENN STATE UNIVERSITY, 118 SHORT BROS.PLC, 254 296 TOKYO,UNIVERSITY, 9
140 SIGNATURE CONTROL TUFTS UNIVERSITY, 172 256
PERA TECHNOLOGY, 199 SYSTEMS, 97 259 309
PERKIN-ELMER INC., 10 SMART FIBRES LTD., 148 TUSKEGEE,UNIVERSITY, 94
PERUGIA,UNIVERSITY, 3 SOUTH
PETRU PONI,INSTITUTE OF CAROLINA,UNIVERSITY, U
MACROMOLECULAR 214 251 305
CHEMISTRY, 1 7 SOUTH DAKOTA,SCHOOL OF UBE INDUSTRIES LTD., 76
PLASTECH TT, 98 MINES & TECHNOLOGY, UK,DEFENCE RESEARCH
POLYMER LABORATORIES 109 238 AGENCY, 229 325
LTD., 304 SOUTHERN UK,NATIONAL PHYSICAL
PORTUGAL,INSTITUTO CALIFORNIA,UNIVERSITY, LABORATORY, 162 177 285
SUPERIOR DE CIENCIAS DA 53 UKRAINE,NATIONAL
SAUDE, 72 SOUTHERN ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, 81
PRINCETON,UNIVERSITY, 84 ILLINOIS,UNIVERSITY, 211 ULSTER,UNIVERSITY, 92 105
213 330 SOUTHERN 179
PRODEMAT, 289 MISSISSIPPI,UNIVERSITY, US,AIR FORCE RESEARCH
49 286 LABORATORY, 99 100 101
US,AIR FORCE,WRIGHT-
Q SOUTHWEST RESEARCH
PATTERSON BASE, 33
INSTITUTE, 252 283
QUANTUM MATERIALS INC., SP SYSTEMS, 5 US,ARMY CONSTRUCTION

© Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited 111

 Company Index

ENGINEERING RESEARCH US,NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF W

LAB., 138 STANDARDS &
US,ARMY RESEARCH TECHNOLOGY, 35 112 166 WASHINGTON
LABORATORY, 70 94 120 186 168 184 189 207 211 214 234 STATE,UNIVERSITY, 46 88
258 243 249 257 WASHINGTON,UNIVERSITY, 96
US,ARMY SOLDIER & UTAH,UNIVERSITY, 227 202
BIOLOGICAL CHEMICAL WATERLOO,UNIVERSITY, 203
COMMAND, 70 V WEIZMANN INSTITUTE OF
US,DEPT.OF SCIENCE, 297
AGRICULTURE,FOREST VALENCIA,POLYTECHNICAL WESTINGHOUSE POWER
SERVICE, 46 88 UNIVERSITY, 113 GENERATION BU, 171
US,FEDERAL AVIATION VIKRAM SARABHAI SPACE WILKES UNIVERSITY, 224
ADMINISTRATION, 305 CENTRE, 82 87 WILLIAM & MARY COLLEGE,
US,FOOD RESEARCH VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC 37 279 302 315
LABORATORY, 89 INSTITUTE & STATE WILLIAMSBURG,COLLEGE OF
US,NASA LANGLEY UNIVERSITY, 26 37 137 155 WILLIAM & MARY, 155 174
RESEARCH CENTER, 279 173 244 279 290 301 302 315 244 290 301
301 302 315 VIRGINIA,TECH, 67
US,NATIONAL AERONAUTICS VP & RPTP SCIENCE COLLEGE,
& SPACE 240 269
ADMINISTRATION, 1

112 © Copyright 2003 Rapra Technology Limited

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