Effect of temperature and initiator on glass fibre/unsaturated polyester composite : cross-linking, mechanical properties

The influence of temperature (20–60°C) and initiator ratio (1–3%) on the cross- linking and mechanical properties of the matrix resin and of gla ss fibre/unsaturated polyester composite; prepared by hand lay-up process and us ed in marine structures, is studied. Reactivity tests have shown that the effect of temperature in crease is similar to that of initiator ratio. They increase reaction rate and reduce the gelation tim e and exothermic peak. Conversely, the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses have sh own that the final conversions of styrene and polyester vinyl groups are almost co mplete, and that whatever the chosen operating conditions. Tensile and bending tests have shown that the m echanical properties (Elastic modulus, tensile strength...) are optimal for the samples operated at 40°C with 1% of initiator and those operated at 20°C with 2% of initiato