Extension of the time-temperature-transformation diagram taking into account thermal properties of components for optimizing the curing of polymer matrix composites

Time-temperature-transformation diagrams are convenient forms of presenting rheokinetic data on curing of thermosetting binders. However, in curing of thick samples, because of the heat release in curing in combination with relatively low values of thermal conductivity and heat capacity of the majority of thermosetting binders, the rheokinetic features can differ significantly from those observed with thin films and small samples. The paper deals with the construction of the three-dimensional time-temperature-transformation diagram taking into account the thermal properties of the binder. The changes in curing dynamics and appearance of temperature gradients inside the sample with increasing thickness of the binder layer being cured are taken into account. The use of the extended diagram for optimizing the curing conditions for polymer matrix composites is suggested and considered.