Coupled Effect of Sea Water and Low Temperature on Polymeric Composites

摘要

This paper provides an overview on our research associated with the durability aspect of the sandwich layups composing of carbon fiber vinyl ester composite facings and a closed cell polymeric foam core. Exposure to sea environment and temperature change over extended period of time often leads to degradation of mechanical properties. In this research, vinyl ester based carbon fiber composite facings prepared using VARTM approach employing [0/90]_(2s) layup are used to investigate the fiber dominated properties and [±45]_(2s) lay-up for studying resin dominated behavior. The mechanical response of carbon fiber vinyl ester composites immersed in simulated sea water and coupled degradation effects from simultaneous exposure to low temperature are reported. H100 PVC foam core degradation was evaluated under tension and torsion tests. Interfacial delamination fracture response for the sandwich structures due to combined effects of sea and low temperature effects are also investigated including the weight gain and associated expansional strains due to sea water. The degradation of polymeric composites and associated sandwich structures with long-term exposure to sea water are summarized considering the coupled effects from freezing temperatures.