JEC COMPOSITES MAGAZINE - Issue #54 - January 2010 - 55

Focus About Nanoledge Nanoledge is a leading innovative formulator and solutions provider for users of specialty epoxy systems. Combining established systems expertise with the nanotechnologies, Nanoledge has recently launched its INNOVIUM resin solutions for bringing customers unique and innovative approach to solve high performance problems, building together better and safer materials. cured (typically around 290°F / 140°C). Figure 5 illustrates the Resin Film Infusion (RFI) process used to manufacture composite parts. Tab. 1: Composition of the different films Sample PART A Semi-solid bisphenol A epoxy resin R1D1* Average EEW** PART B DICY-based hardener Reference (phr) LEO semi-solid resin film (phr) 100 0 445 88 12 445 4.7 4.7 Liquid bis-A 4.7 4.7 * R1D1 is a 3 wt.% CNT masterbatch supplied by Nanoledge. ** Semi-solid resin was selected to keep the same EEW for both formulations. Fig. 5: Typical RFI moulding set-up fracture toughness (GIC) was measured following the ASTM D552801 test method, flexural strength, following the ISO 178 test method and Interlaminar Shear Strength (ILSS), following the ISO 14130 test method. The results showed a significant improvement of GIC, flexural strength and ILSS with respective increases of 35%, 10% and 50% for the carbon nanotubes-filled composite material as compared with the reference. Composite parts manufactured using the LEO semi-solid resin film combine the performance of nanochemical-filled composites materials with the advantages of RFI: - out-of-autoclave processing, - complex shapes can be achieved due to the resin’s long shelf life, - safe, clean lay-up, - low void content, - high mechanical properties owing to the nanochemicals, high molecular weight of the starting materials and high curing temperature, - fewer dry areas, because the resin is infused through the thickness of the fabric (vs. infusion through the length of the fabric in other processes), - low waste disposal due to accurate metering. Conclusion The LEO film was developed to provide a simple solution for any semi-product or composite part manufacturer seeking direct access to performance through the use of nanochemicals. With the LEO film, there is no need to handle nanochemicals or nanochemical masterbatches, and the process is safe and easy. In addition to the current LEO film range (comprising both nano filled and nano free film), other films will be developed in the near future. For example the Nanoledge’ eco-resin for lay-up will exist as a film, high hardness films will be available soon to be laid at the outer layer of the stack to yield composite parts with high surface properties and adhesive films will be offered. More information: www.nanoledge.com Contact: patrice.lucas@nanoledge.com thierry.roth@nanoledge.com Acknowledgement The authors want to acknowledge Kai Schierholz, CSO, Nanoledge Inc and Jérôme Le Corvec, CEO, V+I Composites. Bibliography [1]. Johnsen, B. B. et al. Toughening mechanisms of nanoparticle-modified epoxy polymers, Polymer, 48, 2007, 530-541 [2]. Gojny F et al., Carbon nanotube-reinforced epoxy-composite: enhanced .H. stiffness and fracture toughness at low nanotube content, Composites Sciences and Technology, 64, 2004, 2363-237 [3]. Wichmann, M.H.G., Schulte, K., Wagner, H.D., On nanocomposite toughness, Composites Science and Technology, 68, 1 2008, 329-331 Case study To validate the nanochemical-filled semi-solid resin film strategy, two simple formulations were compared (Table 1). 100 gsm LEO semi-solid resin films were produced from these formulations and processed as previously described with a 200 gsm fabric made of T300 carbon fibre. The films were stacked onto the fabrics and pressure was applied to remove air from the dry fabric. The mould was heated at 140°F (60°C) to melt the resin film and allow the resin to flow through the fabric. A typical cure cycle was applied (120°C, 5 bars, 1 hour). Mode I interlaminar No54 January 2010 / jec composites magazine

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JEC COMPOSITES MAGAZINE - Issue #54 - January 2010

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of JEC COMPOSITES MAGAZINE - Issue #54 - January 2010