Comparison-based Analysis of Epoxy Resin Using Core-shell Rubber

The main objective of this study was to compare the reactivity and mechanical characteristics of unfilled epoxy resin with those which are modified using core-shell rubber. Detailed experimentation consisting of various mixtures of core-shell rubber with epoxy resin was carried out by varying the quantity of CSR in the mixture ranging from 5 to 15wt% and then allowing it to heat for 10-15 mins in a heating mantle at 40 degrees Celsius. This combination was then mixed with a hardener in a ratio of 2:1. The sample was cured for 24 hours and then the mechanical properties and reactivity were tested.

For both categories of samples, the testing of mechanical properties was conducted and it was observed that fracture toughness increased by almost 3 times with the addition of 15wt% CSR to epoxy. At the same time, impact strength increased to nearly 1.5 times and tensile strength decreased linearly with the addition of Core-shell rubber to the mixture.

However, the testing revealed that samples that contained the addition of CSR showed better mechanical properties, exhibiting high toughness and high resistance to crack propagation while a decrease in gel time and cure time was recorded.