초록 ▼

A structure according to the invention comprises a series of interconnected structural members. The structural members, such as panels, are made of a composition comprising as its first essential ingredient a cured (cross-linked) resin having sufficient strength when filled as described below to sup

A structure according to the invention comprises a series of interconnected structural members. The structural members, such as panels, are made of a composition comprising as its first essential ingredient a cured (cross-linked) resin having sufficient strength when filled as described below to support weights up to about 700 pounds without significant buckling, but which has sufficient resilience to flex and rebound from impacts such as low speed collisions with small boats or dropping of heavy human-carried objects without cracking or breaking. The cured resin matrix contains a first filler consisting essentially of inorganic particles effective to improve the impact resistance and flame resistance of the structure, and an amount of a second filler consisting essentially of fibers effective to enhance the rigidity of the structure and reduce crack propagation therein. An optional third filler consisting essentially of plastic microspheres may be added in an amount effective to reduce the weight of the panel by at least 10 % without significantly affecting the other essential properties of the cross-linked resin and first and second fillers, namely flexural strength, flame resistance, impact resistance, rigidity, resistance to crack propagation, and resistance to outdoor environments, particularly marine environments. Piers and docks made from panels of the composite of the invention provide superior performance as compared to conventional materials used to build such structures.

대표청구항 ▼

[What is claimed is:] [1.]a series of structural members made of a composition consisting essentially of about 30 to about 70 wt. % vinyl ester resin, and from about 5 to about 70 wt. % of a filler consisting essentially of inorganic particles effective to improve impact resistance of the structure;

[What is claimed is:] [1.]a series of structural members made of a composition consisting essentially of about 30 to about 70 wt. % vinyl ester resin, and from about 5 to about 70 wt. % of a filler consisting essentially of inorganic particles effective to improve impact resistance of the structure; andplastic microspheres in an amount effective to reduce the weight of the structural member by at least about 10 wt. % relative to a structural member of like composition and size but lacking the microspheres, but which amount is insufficient to substantially reduce the structural strength of the members.