Studies on structure and properties of CNSL novolac resins prepared with succinic acid catalyst

Abstract

Cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) was used to prepare a glass fabric laminate. Two fast curing model resins were prepared using cardanol and formaldehyde in the presence of succinic acid catalyst. The resins possess ortho-ortho and ortho-para linkages. The curing kinetics of the resins showed that the resin prepared with mole ratio 0·8 possesses good curing characteristics. The IR spectra of cured resin showed responses for high ortho linkage. A CNSL high ortho novolac resin was prepared with mole ratio 0·8. The glass fabric laminates prepared with CNSL resin showed good mechanical properties and dimensional stability. It is suggested that the candidate laminate can be used as secondary load bearing structures or panels. © 1993 Indian Academy of Sciences.