In-line processing of continuous glass fibers with thermoset solution epoxy

摘要

A method is disclosed for forming pre-impregnated fibers suitable for making a composite article. A plurality of fibers (14) are pre-impregnated with about 50% by weight of an aqueous-based chemical treatment containing a curable resin, and then contacted with a drying device (41) which effects drying of the chemical treatment without effecting full curing of the resin. The pre-impregnated fibers may then be formed into a composite article in a subsequent forming operation, for example, by filament winding, pultrusion, weaving, knitting, or extrusion coating.