Question about epoxy resin chemistry..
Hello everyone.
I am attempting to find a suitable epoxy resin in SE Asia (Thailand
specifically) for building a composite airplane.
It doesn't appear that any recognized brands are sold here, however
there are factories that produce epoxy of all kinds.
However, in order to get the correct epoxy I need to know what to ask
for. Specifically, my research on the web has led me to conclude that
most aviation/aerospace epoxies are Bisphenol-A based resins with an
amine based hardener? Is this correct or have I interpreted the data
incorrectly?
What I am looking for is a very high strength hardner that performs
well in humid climates and is oven cured at about 120C/250F. I also
need good viscosity for long periods at room temperature.
Additionally, I need a room temperature curing epoxy that can cure
much quicker but gives me similar strength.
As I understand the technology, the resin really isn't that important
in the overall equation. Any bisphenol-A resin will generally work.
But the choice of hardner is crucial. Can someone help me understand
the chemistry here? Should I be looking at an amine based hardner, and
if so, which type?
Aromatic Amines
Aliphatic Amines
Cycloaliphatic Amines
Boron-Hydride Amines
etc.
Then there are "modified" versions of each of these, and they also
make and sell blends.
There are other types of hardners as well, and I don't understand
those either.
Can anyone tell me what a "normal" aviation grade expoxy resin
consists of? What about resources that will help me to understand this
so I can make an informed choice.
Thanks for any information.
Chris
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