Thermosetting Resins Based on Poly(Ethylene Glycol Fumarate) and Acrylic Acid: Rheological and Thermal Analysis

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Thermosetting binders are crucial in various industries.
• Controlling binder properties like viscosity and curing kinetics is essential for optimal performance.
• Poly(ethylene glycol fumarate)-acrylic acid systems offer potential for tailored binder development.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the rheological behavior and low-temperature curing kinetics of poly(ethylene glycol fumarate)-acrylic acid systems.
• Determine the effects of composition and temperature on system properties.
• Develop thermosetting binders with controllable characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Rheological studies (non-Newtonian flow, thixotropy, oscillatory tests).
• Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) for isothermal curing kinetics analysis (Kamal model, diffusion control).
• Thermogravimetry (TGA) and isoconversional methods (Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose, Friedman) for thermal decomposition analysis.

Main Results:

• Systems exhibit non-Newtonian, thixotropic behavior with structural changes during curing.
• Higher temperatures accelerate gelation; increased polyester content retards it, allowing pot life control.
• Curing kinetics follow the Kamal model at 30-40°C but show diffusion control at lower temperatures or higher polyester content.
• Poly(ethylene glycol fumarate) enhances thermal stability, increasing decomposition activation energy.

Conclusions:

• Poly(ethylene glycol fumarate)-acrylic acid systems offer controllable kinetics, tunable viscosity, and high thermal stability.
• These properties make them promising thermosetting binders for composites, construction, paints, coatings, and adhesives.