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Review on Frontal Polymerization Behavior for Thermosetting Resins: Materials, Modeling and Application
Tingting Luo1, Yating Ma1, Xiaoyu Cui1
1School of Aerospace Engineering and Applied Mechanics, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
Polymers
|January 23, 2024
Summary
Frontal polymerization (FP) offers a rapid, energy-efficient alternative to traditional thermosetting resin curing. This review details FP materials, modeling, and applications, highlighting its potential for advanced manufacturing.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry and Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering and Process Technology
Background:
- Traditional thermosetting resin curing methods are energy-intensive and environmentally unsustainable.
- Frontal polymerization (FP) is a self-sustaining exothermic process requiring minimal initial energy input.
- FP enables rapid and energy-efficient polymer manufacturing, crucial for advanced applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in materials, modeling, and applications of frontal polymerization for thermosetting resins.
- To discuss the influence of resin formulations and fillers on FP behavior.
- To outline future research directions in FP technology.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on frontal polymerization materials, including resin formulations and fillers.
- Introduction to fundamental mathematical and reaction-thermal transfer models of FP.
- Detailed examination of current FP-based manufacturing applications.
Main Results:
- Resin formulation and filler content significantly impact FP characteristics.
- Mathematical and thermal models provide insights into controlling the FP process.
- FP has demonstrated potential in various manufacturing technologies, including 3D printing.
Conclusions:
- Frontal polymerization presents a viable, sustainable alternative for thermosetting resin processing.
- Further research into materials, precise control, and advanced modeling is essential for broader adoption.
- FP technology holds significant promise for revolutionizing polymer manufacturing.
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