A FT‐IR analysis method for simple unsaturated polyesters

Abstract

Abstract A simple and reliable FT‐IR method enabling almost complete qualitative and quantitative identification of the components of unsaturated polyester resins for glass‐reinforced laminates is presented. This method is based on percentage transmission ratios of characteristic bands in a single IR spectrum. Coupled with simple chemical tests, such as resin acid number and, when needed, UV‐VIS determination of Co (II) curing accelerators, this FT‐IR method allows the qualitative and quantitative determination of the various reacted and unreacted components of the resin. Some critical discussion of the advantages of such a method over some conventional tests is presented.