Mechanical and thermal characterization of an epoxy foam as thermal layer insulation for a glass fiber reinforced polymer

We have investigated the formulations and curing parameters to obtain an epoxy foam to be used as thermal insulator layer for a glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP). A relevant decrease (50%) of the apparent density of the foam was achieved by adding up to 5 wt % of foaming agent without affecting the glass-transition temperature (Tg). The mechanical properties were inevitably affected by the foaming, but a remarkable reduction down to 30% of the original value of the thermal conductivity was achieved. Morphological analysis by scanning electron microscopy showed a continuous interface between the epoxy GFRP and the foamed layer.