A method to measure the influence of humidity and temperature on the interfacial adhesion in polyamide composites

The work presented focuses on the need to better understand the effect environmental conditions namely humidity have on the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) of composites. In order to assess the effects on the IFSS of glass fibre polyamide 6 the microbond test method was carried out first in a laboratory atmosphere. A specialised rig was then designed and manufactured in order to carry out the microbond test in a Dynamic Mechanical Analyser with a humidity chamber accessory. Due to the well known moisture absorbing nature of polyamides a range of conditions from 0% to 90% relative humidity are presented. Comparisons were first drawn between laboratory atmosphere tests carried out on two glass formulations. It was then shown for Advantex® APS glass that humidity did have an effect on the measured IFSS.