N-methylol compounds, such as dimethyloldihydroxyethyleneurea (DMDHEU), are the most commonly used durable press finishing agents for cotton fabrics by the industry. In this research, we have examined the effects of the catalyst systems used for DMDHEU on the mechanical strength of the crosslinked cotton fabric. The catalysts induce degradation of cellulose as indicated by the decrease in the t...

Thermo-oxidative degradation of graphite/epoxy composite laminates due to exposure to elevated temperatures was characterized using weight loss and short beam strength (SBS) reduction data. Test specimens obtained from 24-ply, unidirectional AS4/3501-6 graphite/epoxy laminates were subjected to 100, 150, 175, and 200°C for 5000 hours (208 days) in air. Predictive differential models for the wei...

The objective of this work was to study factors affecting the strength of pulp fibers used in papermaking and how their strength affects the properties of the fiber network, i.e. the paper. All the structural levels contributing to fiber strength starting from the organization of cellulose chains in microfibrils through to visible defects and fiber deformations were considered. Due to its wide ...

Steel corrosion leads to the deterioration of bond between concrete and steel bars. The serviceability and ultimate strength of concrete elements within RC structures are hence affected. Many researchers have studied the bond behavior of corroded steel bars. However, very few studies have investigated the effects of confinements on the degradation of bond strength. The present paper proposed a ...

Current ship structure strength assessment procedures used by ship classification societies are mostly experience-based. The degradation effects of damages including fatigue, corrosion, collision and grounding on ultimate strength are seldom taken into account. Cui and Wu [1] proposed a more rational ship structure strength assessment method, First-Principle-Based Strength Assessment System (FB...