Stress-strain properties of polymer-based composite materials according to experimental evidence

Introduction. The use of polymer composites as structural materials for bridge superstructures represents a promising area for scientific research and development, particularly in challenging climatic and geological engineering conditions. The use of polymer composites as structural materials for bridge superstructures represents a promising area for scientific research and development, particularly in challenging climatic and geological engineering conditions. The aim of the work is to identify methods for increasing the efficiency of using polymer composite materials in bridge span structures based on the study of their physico-mechanical characteristics as part of experimental studies. Methods and materials. The relevance of this research stems from the need to develop a structurally similar model of a bridge superstructure made of polymer composite materials that meets modern stability and safety requirements, thereby facilitating infrastructure development in remote northern regions. The variety of fibers, matrix materials and reinforcement schemes used in the creation of polymer composite structures makes it possible to control characteristics such as strength, rigidity, operating temperature and other physical and mechanical properties of materials. Results and Discussion. The study included a brief overview of the components of polymer composite materials and the development of a testing program, which led to the production and testing of a batch of flat samples using domestically produced materials. Selecting the composition, adjusting the component ratios and improving the composite's macrostructure allows for optimal performance characteristics depending on the requirements. Conclusion. Tests of flat FRP samples aimed at determining the values of their physico-mechanical, strength and deformation characteristics have been carried out. The test results obtained for FRP are comparable to those of traditional structural materials. The expediency of using fiberglass in highly loaded structural elements is substantiated, which demonstrates the potential for developing a bridge superstructure design from FRP. The prospects for further research based on computational and experimental analysis of nodal connections of elements from FRP are outlined.