Fabrication and characterization of BMI specimens by DMA tests

• Main Author: Tan, Zhen Wei
• Other Authors: Seah Leong Keey
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Materials::Composite materials
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/60939
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Composite materials have begun to gain recognition in the aviation industry due to their excellent strength to weight ratio. Bismaleimides composites are slowly replacing epoxy composites. This study will provide a framework for fabricating test specimens samples by detailing procedures and equipment required. The material used for this test is 4,4’-bismaleimidodiphenylmethane combined with o,o’-diallylbisphenol A which is a common bismaleimide resin currently available in the market. A differential scanning calorimetry test is conducted to determine the melting point before fabrication can begin. Subsequently, the samples fabricated undergo a dynamic analysis test to determine their dynamic mechanical properties. A correlation is found between the frequency tested and the properties obtained. The time-temperature superposition model is used to predict the long term behaviour of the samples. This project has provided a detailed fabrication process and characterized the material’s dynamic properties. With the results obtained, this study will be able to contribute to existing studies on bismaleimide composites and provide a benchmark for future research.