Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) UPR

CAS 26455-61-8In StockSample available

Key Features

  • Low viscosity at injection temperature for complete preform fill
  • Controlled gel time window for large complex molds
  • Sharp cure for fast demold and high productivity
  • Closed-mold process — near-zero styrene emissions
  • Compatible with glass, carbon, and hybrid fiber preforms

Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) UPR is a low-viscosity, well-characterized isophthalic unsaturated polyester resin engineered specifically for injection into closed RTM tooling at 2-10 bar injection pressures. The resin provides a predictable gel time window (20-40 minutes) after catalysis to allow complete mold fill before gelation, followed by a sharp exotherm for fast demold.

With a viscosity of 150-300 mPa·s at 25°C and 100-200 mPa·s at 40°C (heated tool), the resin flows readily through complex fiber preforms with minimal dry-spot risk. The isophthalic base provides better water resistance and higher HDT than orthophthalic grades, important for transportation and outdoor structural parts produced by RTM.

RTM-specific characteristics include low volatile emission during injection (closed mold) and compatibility with external release agent systems for tool release. Cured laminates at 45-55% fiber volume achieve flexural strength 200-280 MPa and ILSS (interlaminar shear strength) 25-35 MPa. The resin is compatible with glass, carbon, and hybrid preforms sized for polyester-compatible chemistries.

Specifications

ParameterValue
AppearanceClear to pale yellow liquid
ILSS (50% Vf)25-35 MPa
Viscosity (25°C)150-300 mPa·s
Viscosity (40°C)100-200 mPa·s
Injection Pressure Range2-10 bar
Flexural Strength (50% Vf)200-280 MPa
Gel Time (25°C, 1.5% MEKP)20-40 min

Applications

RTM automotive structural body panelsTransportation composite enclosuresWind turbine blade root sections (RTM)Aerospace secondary structural RTM partsInfrastructure FRP bridge deck sections

FAQ

Gel time is controlled through: (1) MEKP concentration (primary control): 0.5-2.0% at 25°C. (2) Cobalt octoate level (secondary control): 0.1-0.5%. (3) Mold temperature (tertiary): heated molds at 40-60°C significantly accelerate gel and cure. For production consistency, use a metering pump for MEKP injection and verify gel times daily using a small bench test at production temperature.

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