Bismaleimide Modified by Allyl Novolak for Superabrasives

Abstract A novel thermosetting resin system for superabrasives based on novolak and bismaleimide (BMI) was developed. The novolak resin was allylated and then copolymerized with BMI. The structure of allyl novolak and reaction mechanism were analyzed by FTIR. Thermal and mechanical properties were characterized by using comprehensive thermal analyzer (DSC-TG) and strength tester, respectively. The results showed that high molecular weight of novolak was advantageous for heat-resistance, but was unfavorable for the bending strength. High allyl content improved the heat-resistance but lowered the bending strength. When the molecular weight of novolak was 450 and allyl content was 50%, the best resin system with good heat-resistance and bending strength was obtained. It was suitable for the manufacturing of superabrasive tools.