Geometric parameters and chemical corrosion effects on bearing strength of polyphenylenesulphide (PPS) composites

The pin-bearing strength of polymer composites has been the focus of a significant research effort. In bolted composite structures, the presence of bolt holes induces high stress concentrations, which are hence recognized to be a source of damage developed during loading. In this study we aim to investigate the bearing performance of random oriented short fibre reinforced polyphenylenesulphide (PPS) composites which are widely used in various engineering applications. Both geometric parameters and chemical corrosion effects on the bearing performance of the material were investigated. It is concluded that the load bearing performance of the materials strictly depends on the geometric parameters of the joints. Chemical corrosion was also found an important environmental factor which was affecting the load bearing performance remarkably.