Case study: Cure of Plastic Components

The Problem:   The toughness and optical specifications of polyester components used in some mining processes are affected by the curing conditions.  When curing is not done properly, the polymerization of the resin is not complete and weaker components are the result.

The Answer:     The completion of polymerization was clearly and quickly established by Raman spectroscopy, and adjustments were made to curing conditions to minimise off-spec products.

Spectra of resin at different states of cure, showing the trace of unreacted styrene in the failed product: