Semester Award Granted

Spring 2025

Submission Date

May 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Francisco Presuel-Moreno

Abstract

The corrosion behavior of metallic fasteners in contact with composite materials in marine environments remains a critical concern for structural integrity and long-term performance. This study evaluates the corrosion of marine fasteners of various materials in contact with glass fiber, carbon fiber, hybrid glass-carbon fiber, and G10/FR-4 Garolite composite plates. The research focuses on localized corrosion mechanisms, include crevice and pitting corrosion, as well as the influence of composite interactions. Samples were exposed to three environmental conditions: full immersion tanks, tidal tanks simulating the high and low tides, and deployment on a barge on Florida’s intracoastal waterway, with antifouling paint applied to barge immersed composite samples. After six months of exposure, corrosion was analyzed using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Observations focused on material degradation, cross-sectional area loss, and corrosion initiation points at the fastener-composite interface. Findings provide insight into the mechanisms governing crevice corrosion in composite joints, informing material selection and design strategies for marine applications.

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