Effect of dual-initiator and promoter on low temperature cure of UP resins

In low temperature composite manufacturing processes, a major concern for material suppliers and fabricators is how to control the resin gel time and cure time and how to achieve a high final conversion with low residual volatile organic chemicals. In this study, a cobalt promoter catalyzed dual-initiator system is used to control the reaction rate and resin conversion of unsalurated polyester (UP) resins. A mechanistic kinetic model is developed to predict the reaction kinetics with dual initiators. This model can be utilized to simulate both isothermal and dynamic reaction rate and conversion profiles. It can also be used to predict the effect of promoter contents on UP resins cured at low temperatures.