Photopolymerization of composites

Photopolymerization offers many advantages that could be exploited for high-speed, low-cost composites processing. Most notably, the spatial and temporal control of initiation afforded by the use of light rather than heat to initiate the reaction, provides 'cure-on-demand', which could be used to achieve short cycle times, while circumventing many problems and limitations of current production methods. In this review, we examine the emerging field of photopolymerization of industrial composites. After a brief overview of the well-established field of photocured dental composites, focusing on concepts that can be transferred to composites for the durable goods industry, we survey recent research on photopolymerization in thick and fiber-filled systems, illustrating the trends and operating principles that have been identified by several groups. Finally, we discuss commercial applications that have been reported to date, and trends for future research in this emerging area of polymer science.