Cure cycle optimisation of structural epoxies used in composite civil infrastructure through the use of TTT diagrams

Adhesive bonding is becoming increasingly common in civil infrastructure construction due to the increased use of advanced composites. Due large scale structures and their application outdoor settings, conditions during adhesive curing are substantially different from those other industries. However, little information exists on commonly used adhesives applications making design such adhesive-bonded joints difficult. This paper presents a study investigating phase transitions involved process Sikadur® −30, applications. A time–temperature-transformation cure diagram was developed for this epoxy system. Oscillatory rheological data were determine gel times. Differential scanning calorimetry tests estimate time taken vitrification. Unreacted system fully reacted glass transition temperatures determined be −48 °C 70 °C, respectively. Reaction kinetic simulations carried out −30 based obtained experimental data. The numerical predictions validated against comprehensive program. Predictions shown excellent agreement with results. research provides pathway structural composite designers important as pot life times under environmental exposure better bonded joints.