Novel hydrophobic, tough, and high temperature matrix resins for polymer composites

The improved thermal, mechanical, and environmental properties of a number of matrix resins are described. Chlorinated epoxy resins were found to adsorb much less water than their non-chlorinated analogues, and showed improved hot–wet properties. Custom synthesised thermoplastic toughening agents were used to improve the fracture toughness of a tetrafunctional epoxy resin system. Substantial increases in KIC and GICwere achieved, with minimal loss of temperature performance.