B. Bilyeu (1), W. Brostow (1), K. P. Menard (2)

(1) Department of Materials Science, University of North Texas, P.O. Box 305310, Denton, TX 76203-5310, USA
(2) Perkin-Elmer LLC, 50 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06897, USA

ABSTRACT

Epoxies are the most common and widely used thermosets. They have a very wide application range from dental fillings to rocket casings. The characteristics, which provide such a diversity of applications are explained by the chemistry of the epoxide functional group as well as the curing reaction. In addition to the numerous other uses, epoxies are particularly well suited for fiber-reinforced composites and have been instrumental in the current success of these materials. This overview of epoxies is presented in the context of a general course in Materials Science and Engineering to supplement the need by students in this field.