Abstract
Novel hybrid IPN foam composites have been produced by simultaneous polymerisation and crosslinking of an unsaturated polyester or vinyl ester and polyether-based polyurethanes. The reinforcement for the composites con¬sisted of glass fibre continuous roving, continuous strand mats, and chopped glass fibres. In order to increase the bonding between the matrix resins and the reinforcing glass fibres, various acrylate and methacrylate monomers were used in combination with styrene, which enhanced both the impact strength and flexural modulus of the resulting foam composites.
Physical properties of the hybrid IPN foam composites are compared with natural wood. These foam composites have considerable potential as wood substitutes in building and construction, marine, transportation, as well as in applications requiring corrosion and mildew resistance.
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