Rapid setting composite article
Methods of using fiber-reinforced composite articles useful in supporting or immobilizing an injured body part is disclosed. The composite is a multi-layer, flexible precursor including fiber reinforcement plies, which can be rapidly cured into a rigid body using a thermosetting resin. Methods of making and using the same are also disclosed, along with kits containing such composite articles.
1. A method of rapidly supporting or immobilizing an injured body part, said method comprising:
providing a fiber-reinforced composite article, said article comprising a multi-layer body convertible from a flexible state to a rigid state, the multi-layer body comprising:
a fiber reinforcement layer;
an encapsulating film adjacent said fiber reinforcement layer; and
an optional insulating barrier adjacent said encapsulating film;
arranging said multi-layer body in the flexible state around or next to and in conformance with said injured body part with said insulating barrier adjacent to said body part; and
introducing a thermosetting resin into said body, said resin impregnating said fiber reinforcement layer,
wherein said resin cures in less than about 10 minutes after said introducing, thereby converting said multi-layer body to the rigid state comprising a rigid lamellar body, thereby supporting or immobilizing said injured body part.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said multi-layer body further comprises a resin distribution tube, said thermosetting resin being introduced into said body via said resin distribution tube.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein said multi-layer body further comprises a tackifier, said tackifier enhancing the wicking of said resin.
4. A method of rapidly supporting or immobilizing an injured body part, said method comprising:
providing a fiber-reinforced composite article, said article comprising a multi-layer body convertible from a flexible state to a rigid state, the multi-layer body comprising:
a fiber reinforcement layer pre-impregnated with a thermosetting resin;
an encapsulating film adjacent said fiber reinforcement layer; and
an optional insulating barrier adjacent said encapsulating film;
arranging said multi-layer body in the flexible state around or next to and in conformance with said injured body part with said insulating barrier adjacent to said body part; and
exposing said thermosetting resin to a catalyst,
wherein said resin cures in less than about 10 minutes after said exposing, thereby converting said multi-layer body to the rigid state comprising a rigid lamellar body, thereby supporting or immobilizing said injured body part.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein said catalyst is selected from the group consisting of air, oxygen, sulfur dioxide, water, hydroperoxides, or peroxides.
6. A method of rapidly supporting or immobilizing an injured body part, said method comprising:
providing a fiber-reinforced composite article, said article comprising a multi-layer body convertible from a flexible state to a rigid state, the multi-layer body comprising:
a fiber reinforcement layer pre-impregnated with a photo-curable resin;
an encapsulating film adjacent said fiber reinforcement layer;
an optional exterior insulating barrier, said insulating barrier forming said first and second major surfaces;
arranging said multi-layer body in the flexible state around or next to and in conformance with said injured body part with said insulating barrier adjacent to said body part; and
exposing said photo-curable resin to light,
wherein said resin cures in less than about 10 minutes after said exposing, thereby converting said multi-layer body to the rigid state comprising a rigid lamellar body, thereby supporting or immobilizing said injured body part.
7. The method of claim 6 , wherein said multi-layer body further comprises:
a source of light adjacent said encapsulating film;
an optional light-diffusing layer or spacer between said source of light and said encapsulating film; and
one or more optional reflector layers adjacent said source of light and/or adjacent said encapsulating film.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein said exposing comprises activating said source of light, wherein light is emitted from said source of light and cures said resin.
9. The method of claim 7 , wherein said multi-layer body is connected to a power source for activating said source of light.
10. A kit for use in a method of rapidly supporting or immobilizing an injured body part according to claim 1 , said kit comprising:
a fiber-reinforced composite article according to claim 1 ;
a thermosetting resin; and
instructions for use thereof.
11. The kit of claim 10 , wherein said thermosetting resin is in a container separate from said composite precursor.
12. The kit of claim 10 , wherein said resin is a photo-curable resin, said kit further comprising a source of light.
13. The kit of claim 12 , said kit further comprising a power source.
14. The kit of claim 13 , wherein said power source is a battery or batteries, capacitor or ultra-capacitor, power converter, voltage multiplier, and/or solar cell.
15. The kit of claim 10 , further comprising first aid supplies selected from the group consisting of adhesive, tape, bandages, gauze, straps, antibiotic ointment, and combinations thereof.