| Abstract: | The rapid photo-oxidation of the surface epoxy resin of a commercial seven-ply laminate (Scotchply 1009-26) is due principally to the epoxy novolac resin component. The photo-oxidation rate of this resin is eight times that of the other component, a bisphenol A epoxy resin. This rate depends on the conditions of cure, and photo-initiation occurs in part through aromatic carbonyl groups formed by oxidation of the methylene linkages of the novolac at the cure temperature (160–180°C). Inhibition of this thermal oxidation by vacuum cure or a chain-terminating antioxidant increases the photostability. Photoprotection of thin resin sections by the UV stabilizer 2-hydroxy-4-isooctoxybenzophenone and an epoxidized analog is assessed. |
