Effect of environmental conditions on the characteristics of GFRP plates using non-destructive testing techniques
Effect of environmental conditions on the characteristics of GFRP plates using non-destructive testing techniques

Summary/Abstract: Glass fibre-reinforced polyester (GFRP) is widely used in industries such as aerospace, civil engineering and railway transportation due to its high specific strength, high specific modulus and excellent fatigue resistance. In civil engineering, GFRP is particularly employed for applications such as rebars, girders and other structural components. The objective of this research is to study the evolution of mechanical, physical and chemical properties of GFRP sheets using non-destructive testing methods, including the Barcol hardness test, water absorption test, infrared (IR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation. These square-shaped GFRP sheets are manufactured through contact moulding and consist of isophthalic resins, glass fibres and additives such as catalysts and accelerators. These samples are exposed to three different environments: in the laboratory (control specimens), in potable water and in seawater. Laboratory tests are conducted on the GFRP samples at 30, 90, 180 and 365 days. The results indicate a significant decrease in hardness across all preserved samples. This reduction in GFRP rigidity can be attributed to water or moisture absorption, as evidenced by the obtained results. Furthermore, no changes in the chemical composition were observed on the surface of the tested samples. Finally, the matrix/glass fibre bond remains in good condition, despite this material being exposed to a humid and/or sulphate-rich environment for one year.

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