A Physics Department Faculty Member Publishes a Scientific Paper
Asst. Prof. Dr. Safaa Mohammed Redha from the Physics Department published a scientific paper titled: “Influence of Variable Climate on Mechanical Properties of Composite Materials: An Experimental Study”
in the Kerbala International Journal of Modern Science, indexed in Scopus (Q1).
The research aimed to discover, for the first time, the use of UV-resistant coatings to enhance the durability of materials. This study investigated the degradation of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic composites, manufactured using non-sterile molding technology, under tropical climatic conditions across three regions over a three-year period.
The research involved the use of forty samples, which underwent tensile and compression tests, microscopic examination, and X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanning. Statistical and principal component analyses revealed significant mechanical deterioration, with tensile strength decreasing by up to 16.1% (p < 0.05), compressive strength by 20.4% (p < 0.05), and the modulus of elasticity increasing by 11.7% (p < 0.05).
Microscopic examination showed a change in matrix color, micro-cracks, and loss of fiber pigmentation, particularly in coastal areas exposed to UV-A radiation. UV-A radiation and humidity were found to be the main drivers of deterioration, while UV-B radiation affected the modulus of elasticity.
