In-service Performance of Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite in Different Environmental Conditions: A Review

Abstract

FRP composite materials exhibit superior mechanical properties. The most promising properties include strength to density ratio, anti-corrosion property, high toughness and strength etc. During their service period they are exposed to various severe environmental conditions which include high temperature, low temperature, thermal shock, thermal spike, UV radiation, high humidity, sea water, alkaline fluids etc. The present review focuses on in-service performance of FRP composites in diversified environmental conditions as mentioned above. Subjecting the composite to high temperature may lead to significant mass loss and material shrinkage. Generation of residual stresses at low temperature accelerates delamination, debonding and matrix hardening. Thermal shock leads to sudden debonding of fibre/matrix interface due to catastrophic fluctuation in temperature. Decolourisation of composite is resulted under exposure to UV radiation. Moisture and sea water exposure cause swelling in matrix and thus modify the geometry of the composite.