Kinetic models for the SR1500 and LY556 epoxies under manufacturer’s recommended cure cycles

The kinetic behaviours of two commercial epoxy resin systems subjected to manufacturer’s recommended cure cycles (MRCC) were studied in detail. The two systems were characterized through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) using both isothermal and dynamic test conditions. The kinetic parameters were determined and two original kinetic models were established for these resin systems subjected to the “real” processing conditions. In this paper the experimental procedure is described, together with its results and the original kinetic models developed.