Effects of hygrothermal conditioning on epoxy adhesives used in FRP composites

Durability of FRP composites and their bond to concrete is essential to structural integrity of an FRP repair. Epoxy adhesives are used to form FRP composites, and as a bonding medium between the FRP and concrete substrate. Susceptibility of epoxy to the negative effects of water and high temperature affects the longevity of FRP repairs in hygrothermal environmental conditions. The presented work investigates the effects of such environments on the curing kinetics of epoxy. Competing effects of plasticization and post-cure during accelerated conditioning are discussed; recommendations targeting researchers, practitioners, and manufacturers are made based on the research findings. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.