Characterization and modeling of an epoxy vitrimer based on disulfide exchange for wet filament winding applications

Abstract

AbstractThe present paper investigates the suitability of a vitrimeric epoxy resin for processing in the wet filament winding (WFW) process to manufacture fiber‐reinforced polymers (FRP). Comprehensive material characterization of a commercially available epoxy and vitrimeric resin based on disulfide exchange is carried out, and the processing in WFW is evaluated by analyzing thermomechanical, rheological, thermochemical properties, and chemical shrinkage. The direct comparison of a vitrimer and an established epoxy resin permits an indication of the processability and necessary adjustments in WFW. Based on the implications of modeling, we demonstrate the processing of the vitrimeric resin in the WFW process by increasing the resin bath temperatures. The vitrimer's and conventional resin's elastic modulus development and compression behavior were similar, highlighting the vitrimeric resin's potential. Further, the results confirm that established characterization and modeling routines can be transferred to vitrimeric resins and, therefore, path the way toward advanced process simulation of vitrimeric resin's processing. For this, the present publication gives essential advice for setting up testing schedules for characterizing epoxy vitrimers' processing behavior and their appropriate modeling. The present work underlines the potential of applying commercially available dynamic hardeners to manufacture recyclable and malleable FRP in established processes.Highlights Material characterization and modeling of wet filament winding process. Wet filament winding of epoxy vitrimers. Thermomechanical and chemical shrinkage characterization of epoxy vitrimers. Rheological and kinetic modeling of epoxy vitrimer.