All-polyamide composites prepared by resin transfer molding

Abstract

Resin transfer molding (RTM) was used to manufacture all-polyamide (all-PA) composites in which PA6 matrix was in situ formed by the anionic polymerization of e-caprolactam (CL). Influence of molding temperature (T M), a critical process parameter, on the structure and properties of all-PA composites was investigated using TGA, DSC, SEM, and tensile, flexural test. Increasing T M resulted in the decrease of CL conversion and the enhancement of fiber/matrix interface bonding. By comparing the mechanical properties of all-PA composites prepared at different T M (140–200 °C), an optimal T M (180 °C) was found in this temperature range. As a whole, the complete consolidation of all-PA composites and the remarkable reinforcing effect of PA66 fibers on PA6 matrix were assured by low-void fraction, high-CL conversion and strong interface performance though in a wide T M range.