
362 Textiles for Industrial Applications
© 2008 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
13.5 Polymer Matrices or Resins
The primary functions of the resin are to distribute the load experienced to
all the reinforcing bers, act as a glue to hold the bers together, and protect
the bers from mechanical and environmental damages. Resins are divided
into two major groups known as thermoset and thermoplastic. The matrix
usually comprises 30%–40% of composite structure. The resin selection is
crucial in the composite manufacturing process. The factors inuencing the
resin selection are
1. Processing temperature
2. Compatibility with ber
3. Properties of resin ...