Prediction analysis on mechanical properties of hygrothermal ageing GFRP composite laminates

Abstract

Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites are being used in a various applications ranging from aerospace, military, marine to sports equipments. The reinforcement materials are highly hygroscopic nature, the matrix material provides protection to the reinforcement, for example the parts made of composite materials and exposed to harsh environment, the water molecules from environment are induced in exposed material then travel along the reinforcement, which causes damage to the interfacial bonding. This results in the performance of the parts getting affected. Therefore, mechanical and environmental characterization of these materials is necessary to further enhance their application spectrum. Glass fiber reinforced polymer composites are subjected to different working environments when they are put into service. Hence, there is an imminent effort is required to investigate the mechanical behavior of these materials when subjected to different environmental conditions under different exposure time schedules. In the present work an attempt has been made to understanding the effect of moisture absorption on strength degradation coupled with temperature. Also estimate life cycle time of polymer composite components such as marine boats and submarine applications and under water applications. From the test results and prediction analysis, it is clear that the tensile and flexural modulus of the conditioned specimens is significantly reduced due to the environmental impact.