Abstract
Effects of pressure and temperature on time‐dependent changes in physical/mechanical properties of graphite/epoxy composites were investigated. Samples were cut from the eight‐ply‐thick laminates of commercially used composites, post‐cured, and then quenched to environments of various temperature and pressure. Time‐dependent changes in their properties were analyzed by thermal and thermomechanical (dynamic mechanical) measurements. An increase in the glass‐transition temperature was found to occur as a function of time. The rate of this process was enhanced by an increase in temperature and/or a decrease in pressure. An explanation was offered in terms of types and mechanisms of molecular events that occur in the glassy state. Time dependent decrease in free volume (and enthalpy) takes place but is not the sole mechanism responsible for the observed increase in Tg. After a certain period of time (which depends on T and P of the environment), additional crosslinking appears to take place.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 57-66 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Polymer Engineering & Science |
Volume | 24 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 1984 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry
- Polymers and Plastics
- Materials Chemistry