1、A critical review of dynamic bonds containing curing agents for epoxy

Investigated the mechanical, thermomechanical, thermal, and recycling properties of the epoxy thermosets cured by developed curing agents. Addressed the challenges, opportunities and emerging trends in the field.

2、Study on epoxy resin with high elongation

Through solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (SSNMR), it was found that the cross-linking density of epoxy resin could be effectively reduced by adding the polyamide and polyether amine curing agent. The tensile tests showed that the elongation-at-break was remarkably improved.

3、Interactions and Curing Dynamics Between UV

This sample became a fully cured, rigid material, demonstrating that the presence of both a multifunctional acrylate curing agent and a suitable photoinitiator is essential for initiating and completing the crosslinking reaction via free-radical polymerization.

The epoxy resin system: function and role of curing agents

Abstract Curing agents are critical components of aqueous epoxy resin systems. Unfortunately, its uses and applications are restricted because of its low emulsifying yields. Epoxy resins are frequently used in electrical devices, castings, packaging, adhesive, corrosion resistance, and dip coating.

Influence of different composite curing agents on the rapid curing

In particular, effective formulations are designed for mixing fast and slow curing agents, studying their effects on the curing behavior, curing quality, and mechanical properties of epoxy resins and elucidating their influence mechanisms.

Preparation and Properties of Epoxy Adhesives with Fast Curing at Room

Starting from the epoxy resin system, a fast-curing, low temperature-resistant epoxy resin was developed. Unlike adding accelerators to achieve rapid curing, modified adhesives avoid the pungent odor of accelerators and also have excellent mechanical properties.

Understanding the curing kinetics of boron

In this study, a hyperbranched polysiloxane (PBPS) with a Si-O-B backbone, containing reactive hydroxyl and epoxy end groups, is synthesized to facilitate the amine curing of EP. For the first time, the contribution of boron to the curing kinetics of epoxy resin is systematically revealed.

Thermal curing of epoxy resins at lower temperature using 4

We revealed reaction mechanism of epoxy polymerization by the thermal latent 4MAPy, using Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time-of-flight mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and 1 H NMR analyses of the model polymerization of phenyl glycidyl ether.

Effect of Curing Agent Type on Curing Reaction Kinetics of Epoxy Resin

In this paper, low molecular weight polyamides, aromatic amines and anhydrides were selected as three kinds of curing agents and their isothermal viscosity-time properties were studied to...

Frontal Polymerization of Epoxy Resins: Kinetic Modeling, Rate

The influences of initiator concentration and epoxy resin type on polymerization rate and the properties of cured resin were examined.

In modern engineering materials science, epoxy resin, as a critical composite matrix, is widely utilized in aerospace, automotive manufacturing, architectural structures, and other fields. Its excellent mechanical properties and chemical stability provide a foundation for numerous high-performance applications. during use, improper handling of curing agents or environmental factors can sometimes trigger explosive polymerization of the curing agent. This phenomenon not only affects the material’s mechanical performance but also poses safety risks. This paper explores the causes, processes, and mitigation strategies for explosive polymerization in epoxy resin with curing agents.

I. Definition and Characteristics of Explosive Polymerization in Epoxy Resin with Curing Agent

Explosive polymerization in epoxy resin with curing agents refers to a scenario during the curing process where active ingredients in the curing agent are suddenly released in large quantities, leading to a rapid local temperature increase and triggering an explosive reaction. This phenomenon is typically accompanied by features such as bubble formation, color changes, and volume expansion.

II. Causes of Explosive Polymerization in Epoxy Resin with Curing Agent

1. Improper Dosage of Curing Agent: Excessive curing agent leads to an overabundance of free radicals during curing, increasing the risk of explosive polymerization.
2. Poor Control of Curing Conditions: Overly fast or slow curing speeds both elevate the likelihood of explosive polymerization.
3. Environmental Factors: Changes in humidity, temperature, oxygen levels, and other environmental conditions may promote explosive polymerization.
4. Raw Material Quality: Poor-quality epoxy resin or curing agents can act as catalysts for explosive polymerization.
5. Irrational Formula Design: Suboptimal proportions or mismatched types of curing agents and epoxy resin can destabilize the curing process.

III. Process of Explosive Polymerization in Epoxy Resin with Curing Agent

1. Initial Stage: The curing agent and epoxy resin are thoroughly mixed to form a liquid mixture.
2. Reaction Stage: Under appropriate temperature and pressure, the curing agent reacts with functional groups in the epoxy resin, forming a cross-linked network.
3. Explosive Stage: As the reaction progresses, active ingredients in the curing agent are depleted, leaving residual curing agents unable to stabilize promptly. This results in a sharp local temperature rise, triggering explosive polymerization.
4. Outcome Stage: Post-explosion, the material exhibits defects such as bubbles, color changes, and volume expansion, severely compromising its performance and safety.

IV. Impacts of Explosive Polymerization

1. Material Performance: The mechanical properties (e.g., strength, toughness) of the epoxy resin deteriorate significantly after explosive polymerization.
2. Safety Hazards: High temperatures generated during explosions may ignite surrounding materials, posing fire risks.
3. Economic Costs: Repairing or replacing failed materials due to explosive polymerization requires substantial time and financial investment.

V. Mitigation Strategies

1. Strict Dosage and Ratio Control: Avoid overuse of curing agents by adhering to precise proportions.
2. Optimized Curing Parameters: Regulate temperature, pressure, and time to minimize explosive risks.
3. Environmental Improvements: Reduce humidity, enhance air circulation, and mitigate environmental triggers.
4. High-Quality Raw Materials: Use stable, high-purity epoxy resin and curing agents to ensure compatibility.
5. Formulation Optimization: Experimentally determine the optimal ratio and type of curing agent to epoxy resin.
6. Operator Training: Ensure strict adherence to protocols through staff education and awareness programs.
7. Quality Management Systems: Monitor every production step to detect and address issues promptly.

Explosive polymerization in epoxy resin with curing agents results from multiple interrelated factors. A comprehensive approach—encompassing raw material selection, formulation design, production processes, and environmental controls—is essential to mitigate risks. Through scientific management and rigorous operation, the likelihood of explosive polymerization can be significantly reduced, ensuring the quality and performance of epoxy resin materials.