Construction Reinforcement Curable Polymer Adhesion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for reinforcing construction works with composite layers face challenges such as fibers falling apart due to their weight or process disruptions, and the need for rapid application before resin curing, which limits the timeframe for applying reinforcement materials.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a first curable polymer layer that adheres to thermoplastic materials upon thermal activation, followed by a second layer with reinforcement fibers and a thermoplastic matrix, ensuring immediate and strong adherence, reducing the risk of the second layer falling apart and allowing for flexible application timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If reinforcement fibres are applied in the form of long woven bands on a curable resin surface, then the reinforcement effect is improved, but the risk of fibres falling apart due to their own weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a release film to the reinforcement fibres before applying them to the resin surface. This preliminary action prevents the fibres from falling apart due to their own weight or process disruptions, while still allowing them to be properly positioned and adhered to the resin surface before curing.
Solution Approach 2:
The release film acts as an intermediary between the reinforcement fibres and the environment. It provides temporary support to the fibres, preventing them from collapsing or falling apart, while being easily removable after the resin cures and the fibres are securely bonded to the surface.
2Productivity
If the resin cures through chemical reaction or temperature change, then the reinforcement process becomes efficient, but the time window for applying fibres becomes narrow and constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The release film is applied to the fibres in advance, before they are placed on the resin surface. This preliminary preparation allows the fibres to be handled and positioned without risk of falling apart, extending the practical time window for application even as the resin begins to cure.
Solution Approach 2:
The release film provides protective cushioning to the reinforcement fibres before they are applied to the resin. This protection ensures that even if the curing process starts prematurely or if there are delays in application, the fibres will not fall apart or be damaged, effectively extending the usable time window.
3Reliability
If extra precautions are taken when applying fibres to prevent falling apart, then the stability of fibres is improved, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The release film serves as a simple intermediary that provides the necessary protection and stability to the fibres during application. Rather than implementing complex handling procedures or specialized equipment, the release film offers a straightforward solution that maintains fibre stability while keeping the overall process relatively simple.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method provides stable and immediate adherence between layers, reducing the risk of reinforcement material detachment and allowing for more flexible application schedules, enhancing mechanical resistance and durability of the reinforced construction work.
Implementation Method 1
heating at least a surface of the first layer opposite said surface of the construction work, for thermal activation of the cured polymer
Implementation Method 2
the thermoplastic matrix and the thermally activated cured polymer adhere to each other
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
Method of reinforcing a construction work (1) comprising the successive steps of: applying a first layer (2) on a surface (1 a) of the construction work (1), the first layer comprising a curable polymer that, once it is cured, can be thermally activated for adhering to a thermoplastic material; curing said curable polymer; heating at least a surface (2a) of the first layer (2) opposite said surface (1 a) of the construction work (1), for thermal activation of the cured polymer; and applying a second layer (3) over said surface (2a) of the first layer (2), the second layer (3) comprising a composite including reinforcement fibres and a thermoplastic matrix, whereby the thermoplastic matrix and the thermally activated cured polymer adhere to each other.