Assessement of urea based vitrimers as a new matrix material for fibre reinforced polymers

Vitrimers are covalently cross-linked polymeric materials which can be thermally processed in a liquid like state without losing their network integrity. In this work, composites using novel vitrimers based on the dynamic amine exchange reaction of vinylogous urea as matrix material, are assessed. First, the production proces, based prepregging followed by either hot pressing or autoclaving, is discussed. Then, a mechanical characterization of both [0°/90°]2S and [±45°]2S by quasi-static testing is conducted. Furthermore, both thermoforming capabilities of the composite, as well as fibre recycling by a simple chemical treatment is demonstrated. It could be concluded that vitrimers prove to be a promising material for future fibre reinforced polymers