The optimal formulations, based on furan resin Furolite 050915-C, are easily processed by means of VA-RTM or infusion.
The formulations show a suitable viscosity to impregnate 800 g/m2 glass fibre fabrics.
The optimal formulations processed by VA-RTM/infusion fulfill all the requirements for the railway sector (EN 45545-2:2013) demanded by interior wall coverings and external cab housing (very strict requirements).Nevertheless it does not fulfill one of the requirements demanded by the IMO 2010 FTPC Code for the naval sector.
To fulfill this naval requirement it has been necessary to include 3 p.p.h of ATH MICRAL 932.
The mechanical properties are also suitable for these applications.
PRE-PREGGING
Furan resin (Furolite 120514) is suitable for pre-preg manufacturing.
The furan composites manufactured show excellent mechanical and reaction to fire properties (similar to the phenolic ones).
Furan resin Furolite Furolite 050915-A does not show enough flexibility to manufacture thin flexible cork sheets (3-5 mm).
Cork agglomeration with flame retarded (APP: FR CROS 484) furan resins is possible for thick panels (10 mm).
Mechanical and reaction to fire results show that their use in railway applications can be possible.
Some manufacturing problems: not suitable spreading of the mixture on the double belt press.
MICROWAVE CURING
Microwave curing tool, compared to conventional curing methods, improves mechanical properties in the same order that found in the bibliography (more than 10% better).
