The benefits of cationic and cationic / free radical hybrid curing for 3D applications

Richard Plenderleith, Lambson.

Abstract: The properties and benefits of cationic polymerisation and cationic/free radical hybrid polymerisation will be presented.

The chemistry of epoxides and oxetanes, commonly used in cationic polymerisation and the influence this has on the final polymer properties for 3D materials, will be discussed.

Initiating systems of cationic and free radical systems can operate synergistically and good compatibility often exists between epoxide and acrylate resin systems. This compatibility can be improved further by the use of hybrid molecules with both functionalities. Using careful formulation, it is possible to create hybrid systems with improved properties.