Degradation of an elastic composite cylinder due to the diffusion of a fluid

We study the degradation of a composite elastic cylinder due to the diffusion of a fluid through it. The composite is assumed to be comprised of two linearized elastic bodies whose material moduli at a particular location depend on the concentration of fluid at the location, the value of the moduli decreasing with increasing fluid content. Unlike previous studies, we simultaneously solve the problem of the diffusion of fluid and the deformation of the composite cylinder. The study has relevance to the diffusion of moisture in composites as well as that of gases and solvents that can cause degradation of the composite. We find that significant changes take place over time with regard to the displacement, strain, and stress fields in the interior of the annular cylindrical composite that is subject to stress or displacement boundary conditions. © 2009 SAGE Publications.