Hygrothermal modeling and testing of polymers and polymer matrix composites

The dissertation, consisting of four papers, presents the results of the research investigation on environmental effects on polymers and polymer matrix composites. Hygrothermal models were developed that would allow characterization of non-Fickian diffusion coefficients from moisture weight gain data. Hygrothermal testing was also conducted to provide the necessary data for characterizing of model coefficients and model verification. In part 1, a methodology is proposed that would allow characterization of non-Fickian diffusion coefficients from moisture weight gain data for a polymer adhesive below its T_g. Subsequently, these diffusion coefficients are used for predicting moisture concentration profiles through the thickness of a polymer. In part 2, a modeling methodology based on irreversible thermodynamics applied within the framework of composite macro-mechanics is presented, that would allow characterization of non-Fickian diffusion coefficients from moisture weight gain data for laminated composites with distributed uniaxial damage. Comparisons with test data for a 5-harness satin textile composite with uniaxial micro-cracks are provided for model verifications. In part 3, the same modeling methodology based on irreversible thermodynamics is extended to the case of a bi-axially damaged laminate. The model allows characterization of nonFickian diffusion coefficients as well as moisture saturation level from moisture weight gain data for laminates with pre-existing damage. Comparisons with test data for a bi-axially damaged Graphite/Epoxy woven composite are provided for model verifications. Finally, in part 4, hygrothermal tests conducted on AS4/PR500 5HS textile composite laminates are summarized. The objectives of the hygrothermal tests are to determine the diffusivity and maximum moisture content of the laminate.