The resin formulation features CTS’ new novolac-based bio-hardener, Novocard™ XFN, which introduces a high level of renewable content to prepregs. It is also reported to increase impact strength by 163% when compared to composite prepregs made with a conventional amine-cured resin and carbon fibre.

In addition to higher impact strength, Novocard-cured prepregs are said to show improved material flow properties and processability in hot melt prepreg processes due to longer gel time when compared to traditional amine-cured epoxy systems.

CTS says the prepreg is especially compatible with carbon fibres.

CTS, a specialist in sustainable materials and technologies based in Dayton, Ohio, believes the bio-based prepreg could find applications in the aerospace, wind energy, transportation and sporting industries.

Novocard resin is produced with oil extracted from discarded cashew nutshells. (See feature Bio-resins derived from cashew nutshell oil.)