Novel ultra low viscosity epoxy for enhancing the TG and processability of multifunctional thermosets

Abstract

Multifunctional epoxy resins such as novolacs offer high glass transition temperatures (Tg), and an excellent combination of physical and mechanical properties following cure. Due to their high viscosity, novolacs are used in conjunction with a solvent or diluent, which also drastically reduces Tg while acting as processing aids to reduce viscosity. In this work, we introduce a novel ultra-low viscosity epoxy molecule, XU 19127, based on divinylbenzene dioxide. This new epoxy offers unprecedented viscosity-cutting power for orders-of-magnitude viscosity reduction, while actually enabling an increase in Tg through enhanced molecular rigidity. The potential to harness this unique molecule for high Tg formulations will be demonstrated. The effect of this novel molecule on the rheology, cure behavior, and thermo-mechanical properties of formulations intended for high Tg applications will be explored.