Monitoring Microbiologically Influenced Degradation of Stressed Fiber ReinforcedComposites Using Mechanical Testing

摘要

Reduction of tensile strength was demonstrated in a carbon fiber reinforced epoxyresin composite after exposure to a mixed community of marine bacteria known to contain sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRS) in batch culture. Composite strips were maintained in a stressed condition in 3 and 4 point-bend fixtures during exposure. Exposed surfaces were examined microscopically for bacterial colonization, fiber disruption and disbonding. Mechanical testing and acoustic emission (AE) examination were used to evaluate degradation of tensile strength. (MM).