Researchers studied the effects of gamma rays and microwaves on two types of industrial resins — Kamfest-05И and Kamfest-15VES. It turned out that dosed irradiation can both increase the strength of the material and make it more flexible.
Researchers exposed resin samples to gamma radiation in the dose range from 100 to 10000 kilograys and microwave radiation with a frequency of 2.45 gigahertz and a power of 700 Watts. The exposure time of microwave radiation on the materials was 300, 600, 1200 and 1800 seconds. After that, mechanical tests of the samples were carried out for tension and bending to assess changes in their strength properties after exposure to radiation.
Gamma irradiation has a significant impact on the physical and mechanical properties of polyester resins. At doses up to 2000 kilograys, an increase in strength is observed in both types of samples.
Microwave exposure also showed interesting results: short-term treatment (up to 30 minutes) improves the properties of the resin, but prolonged irradiation, on the contrary, worsens its characteristics.
However, increasing the dose from 2000 to 4000 kilograys sharply reduces it and returns the material to its original properties. A further increase to 10000 kilograys is also accompanied by a decrease in strength. This suggests that the optimal dose for hardening polyester resins is 2000 kilograys.
Scientists note that both types of resin demonstrate resistance to radiation. However, their characteristics vary depending on the composition. For example, Kamfest-05И resin demonstrates higher tensile strength, and Kamfest-15VES resin demonstrates higher bending strength.
Polyester resins are one of the key materials in the production of varnishes, adhesives, protective coatings and composite materials. Their low cost and versatility make them indispensable in shipbuilding, the automotive industry and electronics. However, scientists from Perm Polytechnic University have discovered that radiation exposure can significantly improve their mechanical properties, which opens up new opportunities for use in extreme conditions.
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