Durability of Composites in a Marine Environment

Composites are widely used in marine applications. There is considerable experience of glass reinforced resins in boats and ships but these are usually not highly loaded. However, for new areas such as offshore and ocean energy there is a need for highly loaded structures to survive harsh conditions for 20 years or more. High performance composites are therefore being proposed. This book provides an overview of the state of the art in predicting the long term durability of composite marine structures. The following points are covered:

•       Modelling water diffusion

•       Damage induced by water

•       Accelerated testing

•       Including durability in design

•       In-service experience.

This is essential reading for all those involved with composites in the marine industry, from initial design and calculation through to manufacture and service exploitation. It also provides information unavailable elsewhere on the mechanisms involved in degradation and how to take account of them. Ensuring long term durability is not only necessary for safety reasons, but will also determine the economic viability of future marine structures.

Introduction.- Durability of Composites in the Marine Environment.-
Water Sorption Thermodynamics in Polymer Matrices.- Humid Ageing of Organic Matrix Composites.- Water–Mechanical Property Coupling.- Effect of Sea Water on Polymeric Marine Composites.- Seawater Aging of Vinylester and Carbon Reinforced Vinylester.- Effect of Water Absorption on Time–Temperature Dependent Strength of Unidirectional CFRP.- Accelerated Aging Tests for Marine Energy Applications.- Integrating Durability in Marine Composite Certification.- Durability of Composite Materials for Underwater Applications.- Design of Racing Yachts for Durability.- Service Experience and Life Time Prediction of Naval Composites.-Conclusion.- Index.