Matrix and Glass-Resin Interface Optimization In Composite Materials for Structural Applications

The research aims to understand the effect of some constituents (resin matrix, fiberglass reinforcement, resin-fibre interface) on the performances of vinyl ester glass reinforced composites used for structural applications. The effects of chemical modifications in the resin backbone, of the air release additives, of different curing systems on the fibre wet-out are investigated. Moreover the effect of different glass/sizing on the efficiency of resin-fibre interface is investigated by mechanical characterization and microscopy observation (a series of different techniques are proposed) of the laminates produced by vacuum infusion.