Resin matrices and their contribution to composite properties

Abstract

As a result of the increasing use of glass and carbon fibre reinforced plastics in aircraft structures, great emphasis is now placed on the choice of a suitable resin matrix for these demanding applications. In practice this choice is frequently a compromise between conflicting manufacturing, design and materials requirements, and is further complicated by the great range in chemical variety of available resin matrices. Uncertainty of quality in the manufactured composite and a failure to observe and report on fracture modes occurring during sample testing are among other factors that interfere with the establishment of a body of reliable experimental data. This paper considers the relation between matrix and composite properties from a number of viewpoints. Examples of materials’ requirements for specific component applications are given and, finally, a matrix suitable for aerospace use and factors influencing its formulation is discussed.