Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

1998

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Hartt, William H.

Abstract

This research proposed to characterize any microbial induced degradation of carbon fiber/polyetheretherketone (PEEK) composites from acid-producing bacteria (APB) and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to provide a measure of degradation of the composite system as a function of exposure time. In addition, mechanical testing and microscopic evaluation of the specimens were utilized to determine if changes in the EIS spectra as a function of exposure time correlated to changes in the mechanical properties. Results from most EIS scans were consistent with a well-consolidated and undamaged composite system. Changes in the EIS response of specimens exposed to the SRB environment were not matched by a reduction in the flexural strength. Mechanical testing also indicated no reduction in the flexural strength in any of the other exposure environments. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM)/energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were inconclusive, though changes in the EDS spectra were seen. No definitive degradation was seen to occur in this composite system.

Extent

98 p.

Comments

College of Engineering and Computer Science|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1998.|College of Engineering and Computer Science

Identifier

FADT15531

Format

pdf

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