Consumables

Momentive Specialty Chemicals Inc. Breaks the Two-Minute Cycle Time Barrier for Mass Production of Composite Parts

Friday 15. March 2013 - The two-minute barrier for mass production of composite parts has been broken by Momentive Specialty Chemicals Inc. ("Momentive Specialty Chemicals" or the "Company"). A new EPIKOTE Binder 05475 and EPIKURE 05500 fast-cure epoxy system developed for resin transfer molding (RTM) and liquid compression molding (LCM) processes enables mass production of automotive composite parts.

This new system features the same proprietary thermolatency and very low viscosity as the EPIKOTE Binder 05475 and EPIKURE 05443 curing agent launched at JEC in 2012. The properties ensure excellent fiber wetting and cavity filling, which leads to outstanding handling and processing properties. In addition the new cure process is further accelerated without an extensive exothermic reaction.
“This is a great achievement. LCM is the fastest process for flat panels and a process cycle of less than 2 minutes can be achieved, while RTM is the recommended process for the more complex shapes,” said Dr. Roman Hillermeier, technology development manager for the Company. “In addition, the system already meets the future health, safety and environmental requirements outlined by REACH 2015.”