Synergistically modified unsaturated polyester resin with polyester urethane and montmorillonite: microstructure and properties

Abstract

Microstructure, reacting degree and main properties of synergistically modified unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) with polyester urethane (PU) and organically-modified montmorillonite (OMT) are studied in this paper by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), FT-IR, contact angle and mechanical properties. The research shows good compatibility of PU with natural fibre and that the contact angle of modified UPR and natural fibre is decreased. Nanocomposites are made using OMT and the impact section of synergistically modified UP composites with PU and OMT shows the toughness breaking. With the increased addition of PU and OMT, the impact strength is increased, the flexural modulus and the cured shrinkage rate are decreased. The testing of mechanical properties shows that when the content of PU is 5% and that of OMT is 1%, the impact strength is increased 80% or above, the decrease of flexural modulus is less than 20% and the cured shrinkage rate is less than 4%. A PU and OMT system was found to have a synergistic effect on the toughness of UPR.

Effects of preparation methods on mechanical and tribological properties of SFCM/UP composites

“…In recent years, the reinforcements of UP with glass fiber, carbon fiber, and aramid fiber have been studied and reported worldwide. [11] Some UP composites were produced with high performance, light weight, and low cost. However, there are still some disadvantages by using those traditional fibers for reinforcement.…”

“…Hence, it is necessary to improve the properties of UP resin to meet the application requirements. In recent years, the reinforcements of UP with glass fiber, carbon fiber, and aramid fiber have been studied and reported worldwide . Some UP composites were produced with high performance, light weight, and low cost.…”

Hybrid polymer networks of unsaturated polyester–urethane as composite matrices for jute reinforcement

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8] Typically, such composites are prone to micro-cracking and secondary bond failures (delamination) because of poor toughness and high volume shrinkage during curing process of the polyester resins. 4,9,10 Therefore, improvements in the physical and mechanical properties of polyester resin are highly desirable by making it tougher 11,12 and creating an optimum adhesion with the fibers. 13,14 In recent years, the hybrid polymer networks derived from unsaturated polyester and isocyanates have been recognized for this purpose to enhance the mechanical performance of the polyester resins.…”