Document Abstract
ANTEC Papers: 2002
Ultrasonic Tests to Monitor Cure of Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) for Use in Reactive Rotational Moulding
E.C. Brown † , N. Corrigan*, P.D. Coates † , E. Harkin-Jones* R.J. Crawford* † IRC in Polymer Science & Technology, Department of Mechanical & Medical Engineering University of Bradford, Bradford, UK, BD7 1DP * Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT9 5AH
Ultrasound can be used to measure viscosity by analysis of signal velocity and attenuation. This work looks at exploiting change in signal properties to monitor viscosity during cure in reactive rotational moulding (RRM). Results from off-line tests on dicyclopentadiene DCPD show a rise in ultrasonic velocity, and a decrease in relative attenuation during cure, associated with mechanical property changes owing to increased cross-linking. Variations in velocity and attenuation can be used to predict important stages in polymer development. This technique is non-intrusive; a single transducer is mounted on the mould exterior. Pulse-echo measurements are made, allowing additional estimation of part thickness.