Structure-Property Relationships in Neat and Reinforced Epoxy Resins Exposed to Aggressive Environment

Several neat and reinforced epoxy resin formulations were prepared and investigated. Solid glass microspheres, with and without coupling agent, were used as reinforcement. All samples were exposed to an aggressive environment by immersion in acetone for various lengths of time. Dynamic mechanical and fracture measurements were used to evaluate the effect of acetone on mechanical properties of different formulations. Electron microscopic evidence was obtained for the existence of inhomogeneous morphology in all cured systems. Acetone-induced changes in dynamic mechanical parameters have been described in terms of the model of inhomogeneous thermoset morphology.