Physical properties of aramid fiber reinforced castor oil-based polyurethane/epoxy resin IPN composites

Abstract

A series of organic aramid fiber filled castor oil-based polyurethane/epoxy resin graft interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) composites were prepared. The tensile and impact strengths, impact fractured surfaces, damping properties and thermal stability of the IPN composites were studied systematically in terms of composition. Results revealed that the addition of aramid fiber can significantly improve not only the tensile strength but also the impact strength. The damping properties were better when the aramid fiber content were 5% and 7%. The thermal decomposition temperature was also slightly improved by the incorporation of aramid fiber. It is expected that the aramid fiber modified polyurethane/epoxy resin IPN composites may be used as structural damping materials.