Characterization of Thermosets

We will be embarking on an extended series of posts covering characterization of thermosets.  In previous posts I discussed thermoset chemistry and curing.  A key aspect of understanding thermosets and their applications is to have a basic knowledge of some of the key testing methods used to characterize both the curing and final properties.  We will also present an introduction to cure kinetics and rheology (processing).

A colleague of mine, Dr. R. Bruce Prime will be guest posting with me over the next several months.  Dr. Prime is also an IBM alumni and between the two of us have developed a large body of knowledge in the formulation, curing, kinetics, characterization, and uses of thermosets.

Some of Dr. Prime’s career highlights include:

• 30 years at IBM in San Jose, CA
• 1989 receipient of the Mettler-Toledo Awards
• Co-editor of “Thermal Analysis of Polymers: Fundamentals and Applications,” Wiley, 2009
• Authored Thermosets Chapter in Thermal Characterization of Polymeric Materials, edited by E. A. Turi, Academic Press, 1997
• Recognized expert in thermosetting polymers, with specific expertise in cure kinetics and thermal analysis
• Ph.D. in Chemistry from Renssalear Polytechnic Institute with a specialty in polymer science.

In the next three posts, Dr. Prime will cover:

1. Introduction to the basics of Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)
2. DSC of thermosets
3. Cure characterization using DSC

In subsequent posts we will cover:

• Gelation in thermosets
• Vitrification of thermosets and implication on curing and processing
• Introduction to Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)
• DMA of thermosets
• Introduction to Thermal Mechanical Analysis (TMA)
• TMA of thermosets
• Introduction to Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)
• TGA characterization of thermosets
• Multiple posts on rheology basics, rheology of thermosets (chemorheology), rheometers and viscometers
• Curing kinetics and modeling

We are excited to start on this series since between the two of us, we have over 75 years of experience in thermosets.  We are also in the process of writing a comprehensive book on thermoset characterization and practical applications of thermosetting polymers.