This thesis takes an initial step in the research on the long term behaviour of composite-to-metal bonds that are loaded under hygrothermal conditions. It focuses on the response and behaviour of the adhesive in these bonds under moisture and loading. The thesis is inconclusive o
...
This thesis takes an initial step in the research on the long term behaviour of composite-to-metal bonds that are loaded under hygrothermal conditions. It focuses on the response and behaviour of the adhesive in these bonds under moisture and loading. The thesis is inconclusive on the effect of loading on the water uptake. The load level and environment were however found to have a significant influence on the creep behaviour and residual strength of the bonds. It was suggested that at the initial stages of water absorption creep is suppressed while at later stages with higher moisture percentages creep is promoted. Low load levels had a positive effect on the residual lap shear strength and stiffness. For higher load levels and immersion in water the residual lap shear strength and stiffness are decreased. The experimental work also suggests that Araldite 2015 might be affected by ambient humidity.
