Evaluation of water degradation of polymer matrix composites by micromechanical and macromechanical tests
by Ramirez, Felipe A., M.S., FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY, 2008, 147 pages; 1457961

Abstract:

Degradation of the critical components of polymer matrix composites in marine environments had been experimentally investigated. Water absorption behavior of neat resin and composite specimens was examined. The tensile strength of fibers was monitored using the single filament test. The mechanical properties of the resins were monitored by tensile, flexure, and dynamic-mechanical tests. In addition, matrix shrinkage during cure and matrix swelling after immersion in water were monitored. The integrity of the fiber/matrix (F/M) interface of the composite systems was studied using the single fiber fragmentation test (SFFT). Macroscopic composites were examined using transverse tensile and transverse flexure tests to study the influence of the integrity of the matrix and F/M interface on the macroscopic response. In addition, for characterization of F/M debonding in the SFFT, a fracture mechanics model and modified test procedure were developed.

 
AdviserLeif A. Carlsson
SchoolFLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY
SourceMAI/ 47-01, p. , Oct 2008
Source TypeThesis
SubjectsMaterials Science
Publication Number1457961
Adobe PDF Access the complete dissertation:
 

» Find an electronic copy at your library.
  Use the link below to access a full citation record of this graduate work:
  http://gateway.proquest.com/openurl%3furl_ver=Z39.88-2004%26res_dat=xri:pqdiss%26rft_val_fmt=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:dissertation%26rft_dat=xri:pqdiss:1457961
  If your library subscribes to the ProQuest Dissertations & Theses (PQDT) database, you may be entitled to a free electronic version of this graduate work. If not, you will have the option to purchase one, and access a 24 page preview for free (if available).

About ProQuest Dissertations & Theses
With over 2.3 million records, the ProQuest Dissertations & Theses (PQDT) database is the most comprehensive collection of dissertations and theses in the world. It is the database of record for graduate research.

The database includes citations of graduate works ranging from the first U.S. dissertation, accepted in 1861, to those accepted as recently as last semester. Of the 2.3 million graduate works included in the database, ProQuest offers more than 1.9 million in full text formats. Of those, over 860,000 are available in PDF format. More than 60,000 dissertations and theses are added to the database each year.

If you have questions, please feel free to visit the ProQuest Web site - http://www.proquest.com - or call ProQuest Hotline Customer Support at 1-800-521-3042.