A meso-scale finite element model for environmental stress corrosion of GFRP

A stress corrosion model of a glass fibre is used within the framework of the finite element theory to predict the life of a unidirectional composite. The approach proposed here seeks to construct plausible models of comparative behaviour such that data and experience gained from short-term durability tests can be extrapolated and used to predict long-term behaviour. It is based on numerical simulation. Its significance comes from the fact that it makes use of the finite element method at the microstructural level. The finite element can capture reasonably well all aspects of damage mechanisms taking place in the microstructure.