Sika says the new resin, called Biresin CR 122, fills a gap which existed in the market for a non-toxic composite resin with approval according to the German Air Ministry LBA/RHV guidelines.

The resin is also approved by Germanischer Lloyd use in composite parts, particularly in the production of wind turbine blades and the moulds to produce them.

Biresin CR122 resin, with hardeners Biresin CH122-3 and CH122-5, is suitable for use in the wet lay-up, resin infusion and resin transfer moulding (RTM) composite processes.

Sika reports that the resin develops good green-strength properties when cured at room temperature, allowing for de-moulding at ambient temperatures and post-cure off the tool. With correct post-cure a glass transition temperature of 120°C can be reached. This compares favourably with the 97°C minimum required by LBA/RHV.

Biresin CR122 systems are suitable for the manufacture of fibre reinforced composite tooling where the moulding temperature can reach 90°C.