Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2008

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Carlsson, Leif A.

Abstract

Degradation of the critical components of polymer matrix composites in marine environments had been experimentally investigated. Water absorption behavior of neat resin and composite specimens was examined. The tensile strength of fibers was monitored using the single filament test. The mechanical properties of the resins were monitored by tensile, flexure, and dynamic-mechanical tests. In addition, matrix shrinkage during cure and matrix swelling after immersion in water were monitored. The integrity of the fiber/matrix (F/M) interface of the composite systems was studied using the single fiber fragmentation test (SFFT). Macroscopic composites were examined using transverse tensile and transverse flexure tests to study the influence of the integrity of the matrix and F/M interface on the macroscopic response. In addition, for characterization of F/M debonding in the SFFT, a fracture mechanics model and modified test procedure were developed.

Extent

164 p.

Comments

College of Engineering and Computer Science|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2008.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|College of Engineering and Computer Science

Identifier

FA00012543

Format

pdf

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