Resistance of fiber reinforced resin matrix composites to gamma radiation aging

doi:10.19936/j.cnki.2096-8000.20260328.007

Abstract

Abstract: Fiber-reinforced resin matrix composites (FRP)are widely used in the nuclear industry, and investigating the factors influencing their gamma radiation resistance and performance evaluation methods can provide critical insights for the modification and development of radiation-resistant materials. In this study, four types of resins and three types of fibers were systematically evaluated. Initial screening via tensile strength tests before and after irradiation identified diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) and unsaturated polyurethane resin (UPU) as the top-performing matrices. The underlying radiation resistance mechanisms were elucidated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. These resins were then combined with glass fiber (GF), basalt fiber (BF), and carbon fiber (CF) to fabricate composites, which were subjected to tensile, flexural, compressive and short-beam shear strength tests before and after irradiation. The results revealed that DGEBA exhibited superior compatibility with BF and CF, while UPU showed optimal interfacial synergy with GF. Furthermore, the radiation resistance of composites required a comprehensive evaluation of multiple mechanical properties rather than relying on a single metric. This work establishes a foundational framework for designing gamma radiation-resistant FRP and offers practical guidance for simplified engineering assessments of radiation tolerance in structural materials.

Key words: composites, gamma radiation, mechanical performance

CLC Number:

TB332

DING Xiangbin, HU Lunbao, HOU Shuo, ZHAI Lihong, CHEN Kaiwen, CHEN Xi. Resistance of fiber reinforced resin matrix composites to gamma radiation aging[J]. COMPOSITES SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING, 2026, 0(3): 57-64.

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