Huntsman’s research involves using a low temperature plasma (under 100˚C) patented by one of its partners, Haydale Composite Solutions, which activates and allows modification of the nanomaterial’s surface energy and enables dispersion into a host medium, such as resin. Without using chemical acid treatments which can cause damage and degrade functional performance, this process maintains the structural integrity and mechanical strength of the final product.
Taking test plates cast from the activated graphene mixed into master batches of various concentrations of ARALDITE epoxy resins, Huntsman has been conducting a series of physical, electrical and thermal tests in the continued evaluation of the composite performance.
So far, an ARALDITE Euremelt hot melt resin and a general purpose epoxy resin have been specified to look at developing new prepreg applications using the former and advance other types of composite processes, such as filament winding and Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM), with the latter.
David Hatrick, European technology director of Huntsman Advanced Materials,said: “This work is set to deliver the platform for a new range of graphene-enhanced ARALDITE resins which will benefit the industrial composites, automotive, aerospace and other markets. We are now focused on the further demonstration of these resins in composites manufactured with a range of typical processes used by our end customers.”
