Cure kinetics and thermal stability of multifunctional epoxy/anhydride containing release agent and carbon fiber

The investigations were carried out into the cure kinetics and thermal stability of multifunctional epoxy/anhydride/imidazole/release agent system (matrix) and carbon fiber reinforced matrix composite. Two experimental techniques were applied: dynamic differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at different heating rates, and non‐isothermal thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results were indicated that the two‐parameter model was found to describe the cure kinetics for the matrix and the composite. The kinetic parameters such as pre‐exponential factor, apparent activation energy, and reaction orders were calculated. And, the carbon fiber had a significant effect on the apparent activation energy and the thermal stability. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:596–601, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers