I am planning a project to produce automobile panels in carbon fiber. Most of the main panels will have a core layer (probably Lantor Soric 2mm) but some of the smaller (dress pieces) will not. Other than the core layer, the rest of the material will be 100% carbon fiber - no glass.
I have decided to go with vacuum infusion as it seems to have many benefits. Initially, I was planning on using Epoxy resin for maximum strength but I am now shying away from it because I don’t want yellowing from sustained UV exposure or softening from getting hot in the sun. I understand Vinyl Ester may solve these problems for me and it has very good strength. If I have overlooked something, please let me know.
I need a U.S. vendor who will sell resin in 1 gallon volume. I have identified the following as potential resins to use:
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MFV 105a Vinyl Ester for Vacuum Infusion - http://www.michiganfiberglass.com/products.html
Vinylester Resin for Infusion - http://www.lbifiberglass.com/POLYRESINS/polyresin.html
Does anyone have experience with any of these resins (good or bad)? Is there a better option?
I am concerned with cloth print-through. Should I do one layer of resin in the mold like a gel coat and then infuse behind that?
Anything else I should be aware of?
Mike