SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1982
STP29358S

Dynamic Tests of Graphite/Epoxy Composites in Hygrothermal Environments

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The objective of this research is to experimentally determine the effects of hostile, hygrothermal environments on the dynamic behavior of graphite/epoxy composites.

This objective has been accomplished by performing flexural vibration tests on Narmco 5208/T300 beam specimens of four distinct layups. Dynamic behavior in the dry, room temperature state is contrasted with five other environmental states, including moisture saturation and temperatures up to 93°C (200°F). The properties determined are fundamental natural frequency and damping. The former can be directly related to an effective dynamic modulus in flexure. These properties reflect the consequences of plasticization of the epoxy matrix material in hygrothermal environments. The experimental results indicate that matrix controlled modes of response are the most affected. Generally damping increases and stiffness decreases with increasing hygrothermal conditioning. For most applications, stiffness reductions are the dominant concern; the experimentally determined dynamic reductions are consistent with known static ones.

Author Information

Rehfield, LW
School of Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Ga.
Briley, RP
McDonnell Douglas Astronautics Co., St. Louis, Mo
Putter, S
School of Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Ga.
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Details
Developed by Committee: D30
Pages: 148–160
DOI: 10.1520/STP29358S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4833-8
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0698-7