Impact of the ambiance on GFRP composites and role of some inherent factors: A review report

A composite material scores over its metallic counter parts in many aspects and can be tailor-made to suit the specific purpose for which it is conceived. However, during functioning the composite is exposed to the severities of the surrounding ambiance and is damaged and degraded by the atmospheric deterrent-reagents like moisture and heat fluctuations. In order to ensure a safe, extended service life-span of the composite material, it is, therefore, pertinent that the behaviour of the material related to its physical, chemical and mechanical characteristics must be analysed and established under different fluctuating ambient conditions. The present report aims at analysing and presenting the degradation/damages caused to the glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GFRP) composites under different ambient conditions and the role played by some inherent factors like the constituent components of the GFRP composites, its pre-existing flaws created during manufacturing/service-life, volume fraction fibres, length and distribution of the fibres in the matrix phase and the curing processes adopted for strengthening and stabilising the matrix structure.