Optimizing curing agent ratios for high-performance thermosetting phthalonitrile-based glass fibers

Abstract

Abstract Phthalonitrile (PN) is a highly promising material in the field of high-performance thermosetting polymers due to its ability to maintain its properties even at extremely high temperatures. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of varying curing agents on the thermal properties of cured PN resin. The curing agents were found to effectively cure the resin, as indicated by the increasing ratio of N and S contents and decreasing the C content as the proportion of curing agents increased, as observed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy data analyses. Moreover, thermogravimetric analyses revealed that the sample with 20% curing agent showed the highest thermal decomposition rate among the 2, 5, 10, and 20% curing agent dosages. These properties can be further improved by incorporating glass fibers. Overall, these results demonstrate the successful use of curing agents to create an efficient and functional polymer with superior thermal properties that are suitable for use in harsh environments. The findings of this study are a significant step forward in advancing the use of PN as a high-performance thermosetting polymer.