Polymers and Polymer Composites

Manufacturing of transparent composites using vacuum infusion process

September 1, 2014 By: Menta V G K; Vuppalapati R R; Chandrashekhara K; Schuman T Research article

Title: Manufacturing of transparent composites using vacuum infusion process
Page Range: p.843-850
Author(s): Menta V G K; Vuppalapati R R; Chandrashekhara K; Schuman T
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Journal: Polymers and Polymer Composites
Issue Year: ppc
Volume: 22
Issue No: No.9

Abstract
A novel optically-transparent glass fibre reinforced polymer matrix composite has been developed by infusing a clear epoxy resin system of matching refractive index into a conventional E-glass fabric preform. Transparent composites are manufactured using a low cost, environmentally friendly vacuum infusion process. Physical and mechanical tests have been conducted. Transparent composites manufactured using the modified vacuum infusion process had a fibre volume fraction of 40%. Tensile strength and tensile modulus of these composites were 374.9 MPa and 31.74 GPa respectively. The results indicate that the transparent composites possess good physical and mechanical properties. These transparent composites form a good base for developing new generation transparent armour systems. 23 Refs.


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