RAPID VISIBLE LIGHT-CURABLE TRANSPARENT GLASS FIBER-REINFORCED POLYMER COMPOSITES

The increasing global demand for sustainable, durable, and cost-effective materials has driven the extensive use of fiber-reinforced polymer composites, particularly the glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and chemical stability. Milled GFRP composites offer additional advantages, including isotropic mechanical properties and improved processability. However, conventional GFRP composites are limited by relatively slow polymer curing, interfacial delamination, and water-induced degradation, limiting their performance and increasing manufacturing complexity and costs. To partly address these limitations, a new milled GFRP composite was developed using a transparent methacrylate-based polymer matrix that cures under visible light in just 2 minutes, which eliminates the need for thermal curing and reduces energy consumption. The polymer formulation is inspired by dental adhesives, which enhances environmental acceptability and reduces health concerns. The presence of hydroxyl groups in the polymer matrix enhances fiber wetting and enables a higher adhesion strength. The results of mechanical testing revealed an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 14.42 ± 1.73 MPa. With rapid, visible light curing and a formulation inspired by dental adhesives, this GFRP composite offers a promising solution for structural applications that require rapid processing with readily available energy sources for curing.