Compression creep of a pultruded E-glass/polyester composite at elevated service temperatures

Abstract

This thesis presents the results of an experimental investigation into the behavior of a pultruded E-glass/polyester fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composite under sustained loads at elevated temperatures in the range of those that might be seen in service. This investigation involved compression creep tests of material coupons performed at a constant stress level of 33% of ultimate strength and three temperatures levels; 23.3°C (74°F), 37.7°F (100°F), and 54.4°C (130°F). The results of these experiments were used in conjunction with the Findley power law and the Time- Temperature Superposition Principle (TTSP) to formulate a predictive curve for the longterm creep behavior of these pultruded sections. Further experiments were performed to investigate the effects of thermal cycles in order to better simulate service conditions.