Microbiologically Influenced Degradation of Fiber Reinforced Polymeric Composites
Abstract
Two fiber-reinforced polymer composites were examined for susceptibility to microbiologically influenced degradation. Composites, resins, and fibers were exposed to sulfur/iron-oxidizing, calcareous-depositing, ammonium-producing, hydrogen-producing, and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in batch culture. Surfaces were uniformly colonized by all physiological types of bacteria. Epoxy and vinyl ester neat resins, carbon fibers,and epoxy composites were not adversely affected by microbiological species. SRB degraded the organic surfactant on glass fibers and preferentially colonized fiber-vinyl ester interfaces. Hydrogen-producing bacteria appeared to disrupt bonding between fibers and vinyl ester resin and to penetrate the resin at the interface.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA280751
Entities
People
- Brenda J. Little
- Patricia A. Wagner
- Richard I. Ray
- Wayne C. Tucker
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory