Evolution of static and dynamic properties of GFRP laminates during ageing in deionized and seawater

GFRP laminates are widely used for constructional purposes of boats and wind turbines. During the operation of elements made of these materials in environmental conditions they are subjected to contact with aggressive media like seawater. In this paper the authors evaluated the degradation process of GFRP laminates at the different stages of ageing in deionized and seawater based on evolution of static and dynamic properties. The analysis of evolution of tensile properties as well as dynamic moduli and characteristic temperatures of transition allow for concluding about the nature of the degradation mechanisms during ageing in various media. Obtained results allow describing this process, which can be applied at the stage of design as well as operation of GFRP elements contacted with water.