Preparation and characterization of bismaleimide (N,N′-bismaleimido-4,4′-diphenyl methane)-vinyl ester oligomer-modified unsaturated polyester interpenetrating matrices for advanced composites

Interpenetrating networks of varying percentages of bismaleimide (BMI) in vinyl ester oligomer (VEO) modified unsaturated polyester (UP) matrices have been developed. Vinyl ester oligomer was prepared by reacting commercially available epoxy resin GY 250 (Ciba-Geigy) and acrylic acid, and used as a toughening agent for unsaturated polyester resin. Unsaturated polyesters modified with 10, 20, and 30 wt % vinyl ester oligomer were made. The VEO toughened unsaturated polyester matrix systems, further modified with 5, 10, and 15 wt % bismaleimide (BMI). BMI-VEO-UP matrices were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and heat deflection temperature analysis. The matrices, in the form of castings, were characterized for their mechanical properties according to ASTM methods: tensile strength, flexural strength, and unnotched Izod impact test. Data obtained from mechanical studies and thermal characterization indicate that the introduction of VEO and BMI into unsaturated polyester resin improves thermomechanical properties according to their percentage concentration. (C) 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.