Research of polymer composite fiberglass rebar cured using the microwave method

Modern production requires new technological solutions that meet the requirements of environmental safety, saving energy resources while increasing the efficiency of technological processes. The paper presents the results of a study of the polymer composite materials in the form of fiberglass rebar curing with the use of a microwave unit. Microwave technologies were used for the polymer composite materials curing (at the electromagnetic field oscillation frequency of 2450 MHz), thermosetting epoxy resins and glass fibers were used as binders and fillers. A uniform temperature distribution over the volume of polymer composite materials in the form of rods (of 20 and 40 mm diameters) was formed using the microwave installation electrodynamic systems. It is shown that the microwave radiation energy as a heat source makes it possible to realize a qualitatively new level of polymer composite materials production, characterized by the ability to produce products with higher physical and mechanical characteristics. In addition, microwave installations significantly save energy consumption compared to traditional installations for the fiberglass rebar production. The calculation of microwave installation parameters and fiberglass rebar heat treatment technological modes are presented as well as data on the temperature distribution over the rods cross-section. The obtained results can be used in technological production processes of the polymer composite rod materials heat treatment.