Toughened urethane hybrid resin
By Staff | February 2008
Reichhold Inc. (Research Triangle Park, N.C.) has introduced Dion 31616-00/31100-00, a new low-styrene, impact-resistant, toughened urethane hybrid resin that is compatible with nanomaterials and carbon-fiber reinforcement. Developed for sheet molding compound (SMC) and pultrusion applications, the resin reportedly combines the flexibility and toughness of polyurethanes with the strength, stiffness and temperature resistance of unsaturated polyesters. Because the resin is compatible with nanomaterials, the company says it is possible to develop engineered nanocomposite FRP laminates that have significantly higher static mechanical properties and dynamic impact properties compared to conventional polyurethane, vinyl ester and polyester systems. Styrene content is 30 percent or less (compliant with SCAQMD Rules 50 and 1162). Potential applications include automotive pickup boxes; personal water craft hulls, decks and liners; tamper-resistant utility enclosures; hockey sticks; manhole covers; structural shapes and components; utility pole cross arms; and high-end sheet piling/seawalls.
