Characterisation of thermoset laminates for cosmetic automotive applications: Part II – Cure and residual volatile assessment

This experimental study addresses the critical issues associated with economic manufacturing of high surface quality laminates using a low shrinkage unsaturated polyester with discontinuous, E-glass reinforcement. The objective was to determine the major influences on residual volatiles with a view to reducing their incidence for passenger vehicle applications. A series of plaque mouldings were manufactured using three different initiator systems (TBPEH, AAP/TBPB and TBPB). Volatile organic compounds were monitored to show the effects of postcure, ambient storage, low profile additive (LPA) loading, cobalt loading and demould time. The laminates were evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry to determine residual reactivity, plus thermogravimetric analysis and gas chromatography to determine residual volatile content.