Presence of Excessive Moisture and the Damage Mechanism in Alternative Hybrid Configurations of GFRP

The aim of this study was to investigate the damage mechanism and the influence of excessive exposure to moisture on the mechanical behavior of alternative configurations of glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP). There are several possible applications involving pipes, storage tanks, and roof tiles, among others. A mat-shape hybrid configuration composed of a glass fiber reinforced polyester matrix was designed using continuous roving, along with an alternative hybrid filler, derived from two different types of industrial residues: from the furniture/wood and coconut (Cocos nucifera Linn) by-product industries. A plate configuration was initially developed and manufactured industrially. The granulometry used for the hybrid filler had a 50/50 endocarp/wood weight ratio for each residue. The resin-to-hybrid filler ratio was 65/35, representing the ratio for the manufacture of 480 g of resin and 260 g of residue. The initial goal, given the possible application of the composite developed in pipes and storage tanks, was to conduct a study aimed at analyzing its mechanical behavior in the face of excessive moisture, characterized by moisture saturation of the material. The mechanical properties of strength and stiffness were studied using tensile uniaxial and three-point bending tests in the dry and saturated moisture tests. To this end, a preliminary moisture absorption test was conducted. The damage mechanism developed was crucial for a better understanding of the interface behavior in the distribution of the laminated layers.