Molecular Characterisation Of Glass Fibre Surface Coatings For Thermosetting Polymer Matrix/Glass Fibre Composites

Model multi-component glass fibre sizings, with formulations based upon current patent disclosures, were prepared to model the full coating packages used in commercial glass fibre manufacture. The sizings consisted of silane coupling agent, film former, and emulsifying surfactant in water and were applied to glass fibres prepared directly from molten glass. Fibres were analysed before and after acetone extraction. The analysis of the extract solutions, with the fibre analysis, were used to determine the quantity and quality of the physically and chemically adsorbed layers. It was found that all three species remain on the fibre after extraction and that both coupling agent and surfactant concentrations in the coatings are higher than in the applied sizing. The impact of these species on the polymer composite/fiber is discussed.