Keywords: epoxy, carbonaceous nanofillers, mechanical-electrical-thermal properties, moisture and temperature effects.

The aim of the project is to establish the effect of environmental factors, such as moisture and temperature, on the main mechanical, electrical and thermal properties of epoxy-based composites and fibre-reinforced plastics (FRPs) modified by carbonaceous nanofillers (nanotubes, nanofibres and/or graphene) for the use as electropassive damage-indicating material in structural outdoor applications.

The main activities:

1) Design and development of the nanocomposites (NCs) at optimal filler content, corresponding to electrical percolation threshold, and small-scale structural element prototype, smart FRP plate, impregnated with the most environmentally stable NC;

2) Characterization of the main mechanical, electrical and thermal properties of the NCs and FRP specimens before and after hygro- and hydrothermal ageing, corresponding to outdoor European conditions, by standard tests and analytical modelling. Evaluation of synergy between environmental degradation in the physical properties of NCs and FRP;

3) Preparation of scientific and popular scientific publications, and conference reports.

Expected results:

1) Environmentally stable smart FRP structural element prototype;

2) Two original scientific and popular scientific papers submitted for publication, and two conference reports.

Expected impact: Expanding of applicability of electropassive NCs and FRPs for structural health monitoring to outdoor conditions.