Orientation Hardening of Epoxy Resin in the Course of Polymerization

Abstract—The influence of mechanical deformation during the polymerization of epoxy resin ED-20 on the mechanical properties of cured samples has been experimentally investigated. Measurements of the dependence of mechanical stress on strain and tensile strength were conducted in an automatic mode using a Devotrans BP D NU testing machine. The experimental measurements of the relationship between mechanical stress and strain for pre-tensioned samples during the polymerization process indicate an increase in tensile strength by 1.5 to 2.5 times for the cured samples, depending on the degree of stretching and the stage of polymerization at which the stretching occurred. Young’s modulus of the cured samples remains virtually unchanged. This effect can be utilized in the production of products made from epoxy resins, including composite materials based on epoxy binders.