The Effect of Environmental-Loading History on the Transverse Strength of GRP Laminate

Abstract

Loaded transverse GRP specimens and epoxy references were exposed to different environmental conditions. Tensile strength measurements conducted under exposure and after a drying period yielded the following main conclusions: Current and residual transverse strength was not affected much by cold-water and hot dry air during a short exposure period. Under hot-water exposure, transverse strength showed a significant drop with time, especially beyond 2 days of exposure and above 25% of the preload level. Based on earlier studies, the transverse-strength degradation of GRP specimens is attributable to attack by water molecules on the fiber-glass surfaces and the fiber-matrix interfacial bonds. This process is triggered and accelerated by heat and external loading. ¹ Based on strength of reference specimens of Series B-0.