Marine laminates, durability

It is widely believed that distilled water is more harmful than seawater which contains dissolved salts. Some workers have used artificial seawater made from Instant Ocean , a mix sold to pet shops for the benefit of tropical fish keepers and containing trace elements [20]. Marine laminate durability is discussed in detail in Chapter 7. 

Subsequent experience has shown that fibre reinforced laminates have the potential to provide extended service in the marine environment. Early losses in mechanical strength have tended to stabilize after a year or so. However, it is essential that all the constituents of the material are selected carefully to avoid the inclusion of hygroscopic/hydrophilic components. Careful control of the manufacturing process is likely to improve the durability of the product considerably. 

Kimpara I, Saito H (2007) Part II Post-impact fatigue behavior of woven and knitted fabric CERP laminates for marine use. Long-term durability and damage tolerance of innovative marine composites (NICOP), Technical Reports and Data Base for Office of Naval Research Project, Feb 2007... 

Accelerated testing for long-term durability of GFRP laminates for marine use. Composites Part B, 35B, (2004), p. 497 - 502... 

Examples of the strength, durability and potential size of polyester laminates can be found in the marine field, e.g. in the construction of boats and ships notable examples are the Arun class lifeboat in service with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (Figure 10.9), and minesweepers in service with the Royal Navy. Relative sizes are 17 and 60 m, the latter using 300 tonnes of UPR. 

Phenolic resins are used to manufacture the most durable of plywood ( marine plj ood ) and are used in repair operations. Epoxy adhesives are widely used to make laminate structures of marine plywood and plywood/polyester. 

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