Natural Weathering of Selected Organic Matrix Composites.
Abstract
A study was made of selected graphite organic matrix composite materials exposed to natural weathering at Panama and Warminster. Commercially available composite prepregs were fabricated into panels using principally a 8 ply layup (+ or - 45 deg) and a 16 ply layup (0 deg + or - 45 deg 90 deg). Panels were retrieved periodically and mechanical property determinations were made at room temperature, 82.2 deg C (180 deg F) and 121.1 deg C (250 deg F). Tension, flexure, compression, short beam shear and in-plane shear tests were primarily used to assess the damage. At room temperature, the in-plane shear strength property of the + or - 45 deg panels was unaffected by exposure. At elevated temperature, however, this matrix dominated property generally decreased with increasing exposure time. Data indicated that the combination of moisture and elevated temperature caused a decrease in the matrix dominated mechanical properties of the 16 ply panels. Some graphite organic matrix composites degraded at a faster rate than others. The use of a paint coating seemed to decrease the irreversible degradation due to moisture and ultraviolet irradiation. A one time exposure aboard different aircraft carriers was made of one of the graphite/epoxy composite systems. The static mechanical properties of the exposed panels were also degraded at the elevated temperature.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 13, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA144091
Entities
People
- E. T. Vadala
- R. E. Trabocco
Organizations
- Naval Air Warfare Center Warminster