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Curing composite materials involves hardening them. Engineers use composites for products that need high strength and thickness in comparison to their weight. Composites are also very durable, resisting impact and corrosion. Composites contain many merged materials, principally plastics, though carbon and glass are also typically included.

UV: Scientists can more quickly cure composites by weaving fiber optics to distribute ultra-violet light. Fiber optics are strands of pure glass. UV light is a light beyond the red spectrum that isn't visible. UV light cures composites faster than chemical reactions while using less energy, which reduces the costs associated with the process. UV rays normally do not work well with thicker materials, since the UV light does not penetrate through the materials evenly. However, the fiber optics can carry the UV light. UV curing is faster, less expensive and does not require expensive equipment. In addition, UV curing does not cause as much stress as thermal curing.

Infrared: The use of infrared energy can cure composites. Since some composites release exothermic heat flux during curing -- raising the temperature too high -- scientists must know the composite thermal behavior before beginning the curing process. Infrared light is another type of light not visible to the eyes. Infrared light relates to how much heat an object has.

Microwaves: Microwaves and conventional fossil fuel heating methods can cure composites. Microwaves are devices that send oscillating electromagnetic energy waves. The microwave mostly heats up objects by energizing the water molecules in the object. With microwaves, the curers have more control over the temperature. However, the microwave cures the composite more slowly than the conventional curing methods.

Ovens and Autoclaves: The most conventional way to cure a composite is with heat and pressure in an oven or autoclave. Autoclaves are devices that people mostly use to sterilize equipment by heating them with steam. The emissions produced by these devices are so volatile that people must dilute them before releasing them into the environment.

Thanks And Regards,
Charle Goster