Thermal management in radical induced cationic frontal polymerisation for optimised processing of fibre reinforced polymers

Radical induced cationic frontal polymerisation (RICFP) is considered a promising low energy method for processing of fibre reinforced polymers (FRPs). Optimisation the local heat balance between reinforcement, epoxy resin and surrounding mould required to pave way its adaptation an industrial high volume fraction structural composites. In this work, we investigate several methods control governing in RICFP-processing FRPs. Heat generation was controlled by tuning initiator concentration while limitation losses using highly insulating moulds found beneficial front characteristics resulting curing degrees. An optimised configuration allowed self-sustaining RICFP FRPs with fractions (Vfs) up 45.8%, exceeding previously reported maxima similar systems. A process window moreover established relating Vf potential formation or supported front.