Application of DSC and FTIR techniques for monitoring the curing process of fairing compounds based on epoxy resins [Applicazione delle tecniche DSC e FTIR per il controllo dell’indurimento di stucchi epossidici per carena]

The aim of the present study was the assessment of a methodological approach to evaluate the degree of curing of epoxy resins heavily loaded with fillers, used as fairing compounds in coating systems applied to protect the hull of yachts and ships with the aim of filling superficial imperfections. The evaluation of the curing process was carried out by differential calorimetric measurements, monitoring the variation of the glass transition T and of the enthalpy of reaction in function of curing T and humidity, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, monitoring the evolution of the reaction between the two components of the resin. At low temperature of curing, 10°C, relative humidity does not produce variations of the curing process. The analysis of the mid-infrared region identified two bands whose intensity changes follow the curing process: 915 cm-1, oxirane ring and 3400 cm-1,OH groups. The two methods allow the definition of the best curing conditions of the resin, to guarantee the best anticorrosive performance of the complete protective system.