Hydrothermal aging of friction riveted thermoplastic composite joints for aircraft applications. (1st January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Borba, N.Z.; dos Santos, J.F.; Amancio-Filho, S.T.
• Is Part Of: Composite structures. Volume 255(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-01-01
• Subjects: Friction riveting -- Composite laminate -- Thermoplastic composite -- Accelerated aging -- Hydrothermal effect -- Mechanical fastening; Composite construction -- Periodicals; Composites -- Périodiques; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2020.112871
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-8223

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper, the sensitivity of carbon fiber reinforced polyether-ether-ketone friction riveted joints to hydrothermal aging was assessed, addressing the degradation mechanisms and post-aged quasi-static mechanical behavior of the joints. The joints were exposed to 71 °C and 95% relative humidity for 28 days. Despite the oxidation of the metallic nut and washer as well as cavitation and degradation of the composite, a 23% increase of joint mechanical performance was observed after 28 days of exposure. It is believed that the temperature and water uptake drove matrix post-crystallization at the surface of the fibers, which led to local strengthening of the composite in the rivet surrounding and, consequently, improved the joint residual strength.