Degradation of composite materials by the effect of water

JOAQUIN ALBERCA; PABLO E MONTEMARTINI; EXEQUIEL RODRIGEZ; VERA ALVAREZ

Advances in Materials Science Research

Nova Publishers

Año: 2012;

This chapter deals on the degradation kinetics of thermosetting matrix / fiber reinforced composites. The diverse processes that take place during the degradation were analyzed. It was established that the damage occurs in the matrix, in the fibers and at the fiber/matrix interface. The material suffers fiber corrosion, which causes the dissolution of alkaline species around the fibers. Besides, the matrix undergoes a hydrolysis process, and at high temperatures depending on temperature, this can lead to microcracking caused by osmotic damage. Degradation at the interface greatly depends on microcracking, if this happens water absorption is significant and mechanical properties are severely affected.The aim of this contribution is to establish the real processes that take place during life in service of polymeric matrix/fiber reinforced composites materials and to determine their effect on the behavior of such materials which is crucial for the residual life in service.