Method of making a natural rubber vacuum bag by spray processes natural rubber vacuum bag made using spray process, and method for usingnatural rubber bag made using spray process

Abstract

The invention discloses a method for making a membrane for use as a vacuum bag, a natural rubber vacuum bag made using such methods, and methods for using such a natural rubber bag to form a composite article. One method can include providing a substantially non-porous working surface having a desired shape for forming a vacuum bag, spraying at least one layer of a natural rubber liquid over at least a portion of working surface, and solidifying the natural rubber liquid to form a membrane having a shape substantially corresponding to that of the working surface. The membrane formed being elastically deformable and substantially impermeable for functioning as a vacuum bag in Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding, debulking, compaction, or similar processes.

Description

[0001] related application [0002] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60 / 903,056, filed February 23, 2007, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. technical field [0003] The subject matter described herein relates generally to the field of vacuum bag construction. More particularly, the subject matter described herein relates to methods for making natural rubber vacuum bags for use in vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding, calendering, compacting, or similar processes, natural rubber vacuum bags made by spraying, and A method using a natural rubber vacuum bag manufactured by the spraying method. Background technique [0004] A composite is broadly defined as combining two or more different materials to produce a new material with synergistic properties not found in the individual components. In fact, the word "composite" is often associated with reinforced plastic materials such as fiberglass ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Typical RTV silicones are highly viscous and are thixotropic which makes them difficult to spray as the material does not flow easily

Therefore, it is difficult to obtain a bag with a uniform thickness over a large area, since the article must be wiped after being applied to the surface

Additional solvents can be used to reduce the tackiness of RTV silicones, but this remedy has the potential to be a source of VOCs and HAPs

Spray equipment that sprays silicone into a mist creates the risk of contaminating the surface of adjacent items exposed to overspray and can be a major problem for bonding and / or coating operations in the vicinity

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