Thermoplastic infusible resin systems: candidates for the marine sector?

This work investigated the feasibility of the use of a novel infusible thermoplastic resin (Elium 150 from Arkema) for composite laminate manufacture by resin infusion methods and possible application in the shipbuilding sector. We compared the properties of Elium glass-fibre laminates with those of laminates infused with state-of-the-art thermosetting epoxy and urethane acrylate resins. The Elium laminates matched the mechanical performance (flexure and interlaminar shear strength) of the epoxy and surpassed that of the urethane acrylate counterpart. However, the mechanical performance of the Elium laminates after immersion in water at 35 oC for 28 days deteriorated compared to urethane acrylate, but was comparable in flexural properties to that of the epoxy. The combination of superior mechanical performance coupled with acceptable environmental resistance and comparable composite laminate manufacturing conditions makes the infusible thermoplastic a possible future candidate matrix over commercial thermosetting resin options