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Critical parameters for thermoset curing in heated molds
Author(s) -
Adabbo Humberto E.,
Rojas Alfredo J.,
Williams Roberto J. J.
Publication year - 1979
Publication title -
polymer engineering and science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.503
H-Index - 111
eISSN - 1548-2634
pISSN - 0032-3888
DOI - 10.1002/pen.760191204
Subject(s) - thermosetting polymer , materials science , slab , curing (chemistry) , adiabatic process , composite material , mold , arrhenius equation , thermal conductivity , thermodynamics , activation energy , structural engineering , chemistry , physics , organic chemistry , engineering
The change in temperature and conversion during the curing of a thermosetting resin in a slab‐shaped heated mold is analyzed theoretically. Results show that there is a critical value of β = AL 2 / k , for which the maximum center exotherm takes place ( A = Arrhenius pre‐exponential factor, L = slab thickness, k = thermal conductivity). Beyond this value, increasing β decreases the center exotherm. The temperature rise at the slab center may be substantially greater than under adiabatic conditions. Wall temperature has a great effect on the process behavior, implying the need of an adequate control system. A description of the temperature profiles and conversion rates is provided and some criteria for the process design are stated.