Characterisation of a glass-fiber reinforced vinylester to steel joint for use between a naval GRP superstructure and a steel hull

摘要

The use of polymer composite sin naval applications is becoming more common, particularly due to the potential weight savings. The mechanical response of a prototype joint between a glass-fibre reinforced polymer superstructure and a steel hull formed via a Resin infusion process was examined and subsequently modified to improve performance through a combined programme of Modelling a mechanical testing. The GRP-steel interface was shown to bee critical to the mechanical performance of the joint.