Abstract: the properties, applications, and research trends of epoxy resin, cyanate ester resin, bismaleimide resin, and polyimide which are widely used in aviation and aerospace fields were discussed in this article. The recent developments of these high performance thermosetting resins were also reviewed. the expected research emphasis in future was proposed, such as increasing the interfacial strength between resins and reinforced fiber, improving stability of composites and toughness of resins,and reducing cost and processing temperature of composites.

Key words: cyanate ester resin, epoxy resin, bismaleimide resin, thermosetting resin