Tabletop Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) for Advancing Research in Characterization and Assessment of the Properties and Long-Term Performance of Innovative FRP Materials and Bio-based Composites

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Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) are being used increasingly as internal reinforcement in concrete structures as a cost-effective alternative to conventional steel bars. Given their corrosion resistance, light weight, and high strength, FRP bars have been used in Canada for the last 30 years for infrastructure such bridge decks, parking garages, and continuous pavements. Despite research and product certification, FRP durability-especially under severe environmental conditions-stands out as the most critical research topic. The lack of appropriate data about the long-term durability poses a major obstacle to broader acceptance and mass implementation of FRPs. To address this concern, the applicants are conducting research programs investigating the effects of various physical/environmental/load/synergetic parameters on the long-term performance of new advanced materials and FRP products incorporating a new class of fibers (glass, basalt, and natural fibers), resin systems with low diffusion/permeability (vinyl-ester, epoxy, polyurethane, acrylic, and biosourced resins), and new nanomaterials (nanocellulose and carbon nanoparticles). The applicants' research activities include the determination of fundamental properties of control (unconditioned) and conditioned (environmental exposure, loaded) FRP samples to assess degradation mechanisms (i.e., fiber dominated, matrix dominated, and interface dominated) and FRP penetration by moisture or chemical solutions (such as alkaline concrete). In particular, the durability performance of the interface will be monitored using a Tabletop Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) coupled with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). Moreover, projects involving the use of natural fibers or resins in ecocomposites will strongly benefit from this equipment for characterizing natural fiber surface modification and bonding, surface microstructure, properties of reinforcing materials, and interphase/interface behavior, with the objective to develop materials with improved properties and durability. Moreover, our new projects (Tier1 and Tier2 CRC of the co-applicants) involving natural fibers or biosourced resins in ecocomposites will strongly benefit from this equipment for characterizing resin surface modification, surface microstructure and properties of reinforcing materials and interphase/interface behaviour of materials subjected to moist environments and aggressive media. The proposed research will (1) provide new knowledge into the factors controlling the durability of FRPs containing a new class of fibers and resins, modified natural fibers, and nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes; (2) provide reliable models to predict the service life; and (3) influence upcoming FRP codes and specifications. 27 HQP (17 PhD, 5 MASc, 3 PDF and 2 technicians) will receive advanced training on FRPs and nanomaterials on this equipment. The requested equipment will be used in accordance with NSERC's Statements on EDI.