Combined exposure to UV radiation and moisture from environmental
conditions synergistically exacerbates composite property
degradation and has gained much attention in recent years. The
microcracks at the UV-irradiated surface of polymeric composites,
can be propagated into the laminates in the presence of thermal
variations [9]. The microcracks can also facilitate the ingression
of moisture into the laminate. Moisture is able to dissolve and
remove products of photo-oxidation reactions from a UVirradiated
surface and provide a fresh surface for further degradation
by UV radiation [11–13]. The effects of combined exposure on
the mechanical properties can be more deleterious compared to
individual exposures. The transverse strength is the most susceptible
property of polymeric composites to environmental elements
and may decrease substantially after long-time exposures [11].
CFVE composites are promising candidates for naval and marine
applications [14–16]. Carbon fibers are hydrophobic materials and
aqueous environments have a minimal effect on the mechanical
properties. Vinyl ester exhibits high corrosion resistance as well
as superior resistance against water absorption. To employ CFVE
composites in marine environments, it is necessary to characterize
time-dependent changes in the mechanical properties and also to
seek a method to approximate real-life outdoor exposures with
indoor controlled conditioning. This provides valuable property
values to predict the life expectancy of CFVE composites in harsh
marine environments.