VIC ADVANCED MATERIALS

Epoxies are thermosetting polymer resins where the resin molecule contains one or more epoxide groups. The chemistry can be adjusted to perfect the molecular weight or viscosity as required by the end use. Their are two primary types of epoxies, glycidyl epoxy and non-glycidyl. Glycidyl epoxy resins can be further defined as either glycidyl-amine, glycidyl-ester, or glycidyl-ether. Non-gylcidyl epoxy resins are either aliphatic or cyloaliphatic resins.

What is epoxy resins commonly used for

In the realm of fiber reinforced polymers (plastics), epoxy is used as the resin matrix to efficiently hold the fiber is place. It is compatible with all common reinforcing fibers including fiberglass, carbon fiber, aramid, and basalt.

Common products and manufacturing methods for fiber reinforced epoxy include:

v  Pressure vessels

v  Pipes

v  Rocket housings

v  Recreational equipment

v  Insulator rods

v  Arrow shafts

v  Compression Molding

v  Aircraft parts

v  Skis and snowboards

v  Skateboards

v  Circuit boards

v  Prepreg and autoclave

v  Aerospace components

v  Bicycle frames

v  Hockey sticks

v  Vacuum Infusion

v  Boats

v  Wind turbine blades

Advantages of Epoxy

When compared to other traditional thermoset or thermoplastic resins, epoxy resins have distinct advantages, including:

v  Low shrink during cure

v  Excellent moisture resistance

v  Excellent chemical resistance

v  Good electrical properties

v  Increased mechanical and fatigue strength

v  Impact resistant

v  No VOCs

v  Long shelf life