Effects of Environmental Exposure on Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Materials Used in Construction

Abstract

A major hindrance to the acceptance of polymer composites in civil engineering applications is the susceptibility of the polymeric matrix to weathering. The polymer matrix is prone to degradation initiated by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, moisture, temperature, and high pH environments. The objective of this study was to characterize chemical and physical changes in polymeric matrix resins following exposure to these environments. The ultimate goal is to identify factors that contribute to matrix resin degradation under environmental and mechanical stresses.