Luminescence spectroscopy as a tool for testing of cure kinetics of epoxy resins

• Published in: Polymer testing 2020-06, Vol.86, p.106496, Article 106496
• Main Authors: Křesálek, Vojtěch, Mikuličová, Michaela
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Curing process; Epoxy resins; Kinetics; Steady-state luminescence spectroscopy
• ISSN: 0142-9418; 1873-2348
• DOI: 10.1016/j.polymertesting.2020.106496

In this paper, steady-state luminescence spectroscopy is used for the analysis of curing of epoxy resin. The advantage of this method is its rapidity, simplicity and sensitivity. Moreover, this method is contactless, and thus non-invasive. The aim is to analyze epoxy resin, mathematically describe its curing kinetics and determine its storage temperature. Using the photoluminescence method, a rapid procedure for obtaining the necessary technological data is achieved. This method is suitable for continuous measurement in production because there is no contact with the material, and the measurement itself can be performed very quickly. The elaborated mathematical model can serve as a basis for creating algorithms for automated data processing in case of fully robotic workplaces. •Luminescence spectroscopy is a contactless method for analysis of the curing process.•Obtained data make it possible to determine the upper limit of the storage temperature.•Curing time can be estimated at the beginning of the curing process.•It is possible to determine the potential barrier of a chemical reaction.•The technology can be useful for the production of epoxy-based composite materials and their input testing in industry 4.0.