The influence of aging in salt chamber on strength of aluminum – CFRP single lap joints

Abstract

Aluminum - composite adhesive joints are used in many technical fields, e.g. in the automotive, aviation, and construction industries. They are exposed to mechanical as well as environmental loads. The paper presents laboratory results for samples aged in the Weiss Technik SC 450 salt chamber. Aging of samples was done for four periods: 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. In addition, reference samples that were not exposed to salt spray were also tested. The tests were carried out on a total of 25 samples. Two-component “Distal Classic” epoxy adhesive was used to make the adhesive joint.The article analyzes both the strength of the joints and the energy needed for damage. As a result of research, it was found that after the first week of the samples being in the chamber, the force loss is almost 50%. The paper also presents macroscopic images of the surface after damaging the joints, which shows that the adhesive layer does not provide much protection against corrosion in the joint lap.