The influence of the ageing-fatigue degradation on the mechanical properties of glass-reinforced composites

Drawing up diagnostic relations between thermal characteristics determined in thermal imaging examinations and mechanical properties, allowing for forecasting the state of material during the use, was a purpose of the work. Research was performed on polyester – glass composites which were subjected to the ageing-fatigue degradation process in a device created specifically for that purpose. It was indicated how to assess the degree of the decline, taking into account the fall in material strength properties. The basis of a method was measurement of changes in temperature in activated thermal processes. Relations between changes of the speed of heating and cooling were related to the bending strength and the modulus of elasticity. Diagnoses were backed up with microscopic examinations.