19-10-2016, 11:20 AM
1459784761-pptreview222.pptx (Size: 3.33 MB / Downloads: 8)
ABSTRACT
The present paper deals with the effect of volume fraction of fibers on the thermal conductivity (k) for polymer composites. This work sees an opportunity of enhancement on insulation capability of a typical fiber reinforced polymer composite. To validate this mathematical model, a set of polyester based composites, with fiber content ranging 1 and 4grams vol % have been prepared by simple hand lay-up technique. For preparing the composite, natural fiber i.e. Pine apple fibers are incorporated in polyester matrix. Thermal conductivities of these composite samples are measured as per ASTM standard E-1530 by using the Unithermâ„¢ Model 2022 tester, which operates on the double guarded heat flow principle. And also the Specific Heat of the powdered samples are measured by using Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC).
MATRIX MATERIAL
The most commonly used thermoset resins are epoxy, polyester, vinyl ester and phenolics. Among them, the polyester resins are being widely used for many advanced composites due to their excellent adhesion to a wide variety of fibers, superior mechanical and electrical properties and good performance at elevated temperatures. Due to several advantages over other thermoset polymers, polyester (4413) is chosen as the matrix material for the present research work. It provides a solvent free room temperature curing system when it is combined with the hardener.
About the Polyester and Hardener
Polyester Resin is a liquid which will cure to a solid when the hardener is added.
It has been specially formulated to cure at room temperature. The hardener, MEKP (Methyl Ethyl Ketone Peroxide) is added to cure, or harden the resin.
MEKP hardeners for polyester resin, often referred to as catalyst come in small plastic tubes or bottles with graduated measurements marked on them. Hardeners are measured in drops or fractions of teaspoons for most lay-up or repair jobs. It should be not over-catalyze or under-catalyze -- you may ruin the resin and have to start again. Factors that will affect the hardening time and working time are temperature, thickness of the application, quantities of resin mixed per batch and humidity.
Ecmalon 4413 is a general purpose unsaturated polyester resin of medium reactivity. The resin has medium viscosity and the mouldings are rigid. It is ideally suited for mouldings using wet lay up.