Selecting a Matrix

As previously mentioned, the term thermoplastic composite refers to a composite

with a thermoplastic material as the matrix. Thermoplastics commonly used in
composites include, but are not limited to, the following:

PE Polyethylene

PP Polypropylene

PBT Polybutylene Terephthalate

PA (nylon) Polyamide

PPS Polyphenylene Sulfide

PEI Polyether Imide

PEKK PolyEtherKeytoneKeytone

PEEK PolyEtherEtherKeytone

There are many factors that need to be considered when selecting a thermoplastic
matrix. There are three categories into which most users group their most important
criteria: operating environment (and associated environmental resistance of the
matrix), mechanical properties, and cost. For the operating environment, users are
generally concerned with items like operating temperatures and exposure to sun, water,
and chemicals. For mechanical properties, it is items like strength, stiffness, and
toughness.

Figure 1: E-Glass/PP composite spring, resin selection driven by cost requirements.

Making the selection of the appropriate matrix more complicated is the fact that, in
general, the choices do not excel in every category. For example, one material might be
inexpensive and have good corrosion resistance, but has a very low glass transition
temperature (i.e. the temperature at which the plastic starts to soften and is susceptible
to creep). Another might offer a very high glass transition temperature, but be
expensive and have relatively poor hydrolytic stability or solvent resistance. As you
might expect, thermoplastics that have high mechanical properties and that can operate
in more varied (aggressive) environments tend to cost more. Automated Dynamics staff
routinely applies our extensive experience to help customers select the best candidate
material for the specific needs of their demanding applications.

Figure 2: Graphite/PEI composite spring, resin selection driven by high Tg required.

Figure 3: Graphite/PEEK composite springs, resin selection driven by environmental
resistance.