Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2025.12.290
Christina Mamagkinidou , Afshin Khatammanesh , Stefan Marsoner , Hans-Peter Gänser , Martin Rester , Maximilian Prunbauer , Michael Proschek , Bernd M. Schönbauer
The fatigue strength of high-strength steels is significantly affected by residual stresses because of their pronounced mean stress sensitivity. Failing to consider the potential effect of residual stresses when evaluating fatigue data can lead to misinterpretations with serious implications for the design and reliability of components. Therefore, it should be standard practice to either remove residual stresses in fatigue test specimens – for instance, through electropolishing or stress-relief annealing – or quantify them appropriately. This is especially important in very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) studies, where failure beyond 107 cycles typically originates from interior defects. In such cases, the distribution of residual stresses within the material is of utmost importance.
In the present study, VHCF data obtained with a martensitic stainless steel sheet are evaluated. Residual stress profiles were measured using X-ray diffraction, and the results were corrected to account for the incremental material layer removal during the measurement. It is demonstrated that VHCF failure originated solely at non-metallic inclusions located in a tensile residual stress field. This emphasises the importance of appropriate mean-stress corrections for reliable fatigue strength predictions.
{"title":"Influence of residual stress profile on the very high cycle fatigue properties of a martensitic stainless steel sheet","authors":"Christina Mamagkinidou , Afshin Khatammanesh , Stefan Marsoner , Hans-Peter Gänser , Martin Rester , Maximilian Prunbauer , Michael Proschek , Bernd M. Schönbauer","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2025.12.290","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2025.12.290","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The fatigue strength of high-strength steels is significantly affected by residual stresses because of their pronounced mean stress sensitivity. Failing to consider the potential effect of residual stresses when evaluating fatigue data can lead to misinterpretations with serious implications for the design and reliability of components. Therefore, it should be standard practice to either remove residual stresses in fatigue test specimens – for instance, through electropolishing or stress-relief annealing – or quantify them appropriately. This is especially important in very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) studies, where failure beyond 10<sup>7</sup> cycles typically originates from interior defects. In such cases, the distribution of residual stresses within the material is of utmost importance.</div><div>In the present study, VHCF data obtained with a martensitic stainless steel sheet are evaluated. Residual stress profiles were measured using X-ray diffraction, and the results were corrected to account for the incremental material layer removal during the measurement. It is demonstrated that VHCF failure originated solely at non-metallic inclusions located in a tensile residual stress field. This emphasises the importance of appropriate mean-stress corrections for reliable fatigue strength predictions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"76 ","pages":"Pages 82-88"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102545","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.075
João Nunes , Pedro J.S.C.P. Sousa , Susana Dias , Job Silva , Daniel F.O. Braga , Tiago Domingues , Kalyan Y. Mitra , Georg Buchecker , Thomas Kuwatsch , Martin Schüller , Paulo J. Tavares , Pedro M.G.J. Moreira
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) are widely assumed as a clean alternative energy source to fossil fuels, being expected to be a growing field in the future. Integrity assessment of these devices during operation is a critical parameter to ensure proper functioning and maximisation of overall efficiency. Commonly, hydrogen cells are assembled into multiple stacks to increase power generation capabilities. The assembly load can cause structural and physical conditions that impact key performance parameters such as water, reactants, electrons and heat transfer. In this context, the present work explores the application of different structural integrity assessment methods to monitor critical parameters and their most relevant monitoring locations. Through different experimental methods, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the behaviour of a commercial cell under operating conditions. Digital Image Correlation (DIC), thermographic imaging, thermocouples, and strain gauges were employed to monitor mechanical and thermal responses during short-term operation. The resulting data can also support numerical simulations, which is particularly valuable given the complexity of this use case.
{"title":"Hydrogen Cell Structural Health Monitoring: Experimental methods to define locations for integrated sensors","authors":"João Nunes , Pedro J.S.C.P. Sousa , Susana Dias , Job Silva , Daniel F.O. Braga , Tiago Domingues , Kalyan Y. Mitra , Georg Buchecker , Thomas Kuwatsch , Martin Schüller , Paulo J. Tavares , Pedro M.G.J. Moreira","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.075","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.075","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) are widely assumed as a clean alternative energy source to fossil fuels, being expected to be a growing field in the future. Integrity assessment of these devices during operation is a critical parameter to ensure proper functioning and maximisation of overall efficiency. Commonly, hydrogen cells are assembled into multiple stacks to increase power generation capabilities. The assembly load can cause structural and physical conditions that impact key performance parameters such as water, reactants, electrons and heat transfer. In this context, the present work explores the application of different structural integrity assessment methods to monitor critical parameters and their most relevant monitoring locations. Through different experimental methods, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the behaviour of a commercial cell under operating conditions. Digital Image Correlation (DIC), thermographic imaging, thermocouples, and strain gauges were employed to monitor mechanical and thermal responses during short-term operation. The resulting data can also support numerical simulations, which is particularly valuable given the complexity of this use case.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 593-600"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102680","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.063
Arian Semedo , João Garcia
The preservation of perishable foods, particularly fish, relies on cold storage systems that maintain optimal temperature and humidity across the supply chain. Conventional facilities often face challenges due to high energy demand, operational costs, and carbon emissions. This study examines a cold storage solution in Tarrafal, Santiago, Cape Verde, utilizing renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and tidal power. Four configurations are analyzed for energy efficiency, economic feasibility, and environmental impact. Solution A employs R134a refrigeration powered by the grid, while Solution B uses a transcritical CO2 system, also grid powered. Solution C integrates CO2 refrigeration with renewable energy, and Solution D enhances this with seawater heat exchange. Results show Solution D reduces carbon emissions by 90% (15,880 kg CO2eq annually) and achieves a return on investment within five years. Solution C, though costlier initially, also contributes to long-term sustainability, cutting emissions by over 600,000 kg CO2 compared to grid-powered systems. These findings highlight the potential of renewable energy integration in coastal cold storage, supporting sustainable energy use and environmental preservation.
{"title":"Integration of Renewable Energy for Carbon-Neutral Fish Cold Storage: A Sustainable Approach Leveraging Solar, Wind, and Tidal Resources in Coastal Systems","authors":"Arian Semedo , João Garcia","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.063","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.063","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The preservation of perishable foods, particularly fish, relies on cold storage systems that maintain optimal temperature and humidity across the supply chain. Conventional facilities often face challenges due to high energy demand, operational costs, and carbon emissions. This study examines a cold storage solution in Tarrafal, Santiago, Cape Verde, utilizing renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and tidal power. Four configurations are analyzed for energy efficiency, economic feasibility, and environmental impact. Solution A employs R134a refrigeration powered by the grid, while Solution B uses a transcritical CO<sub>2</sub> system, also grid powered. Solution C integrates CO<sub>2</sub> refrigeration with renewable energy, and Solution D enhances this with seawater heat exchange. Results show Solution D reduces carbon emissions by 90% (15,880 kg CO<sub>2</sub>eq annually) and achieves a return on investment within five years. Solution C, though costlier initially, also contributes to long-term sustainability, cutting emissions by over 600,000 kg CO<sub>2</sub> compared to grid-powered systems. These findings highlight the potential of renewable energy integration in coastal cold storage, supporting sustainable energy use and environmental preservation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 498-511"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102721","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The study presents a novel two-level analytical framework based on three-dimensional elasticity theory that efficiently captures the complex stress interactions in thick-walled composite pipes subjected to simultaneous internal pressure, axial force, torsion, and bending. The model employs stress superposition to decouple axisymmetric and asymmetric loading effects, achieving computational efficiency improvements of two orders of magnitude compared to traditional finite element methods whilst maintaining comparable accuracy. Through comprehensive parametric studies, it was demonstrated that optimal fibre orientation is inherently load-dependent: high-angle layups (±75°) excel under pressure-dominated conditions but exhibit rapid performance degradation with increasing torsional loads, whilst medium-angle configurations (±45°) provide superior damage tolerance across varied loading scenarios. The study introduces an innovative ‘maximum load diagram’ methodology that transforms the design process from discrete point evaluation to continuous design space exploration, enabling identification of both global optima and manufacturing-robust plateau regions. These findings have immediate applications in subsea pipeline design, drill pipe optimisation, and broader implications for any cylindrical composite structure experiencing complex loading conditions.
{"title":"Analysis and optimal design of thick-walled composite pipes under combined axisymmetric and asymmetric loading","authors":"Tianyu Wang , Oleksandr Menshykov , Mou Tang , Marina Menshykova","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.064","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.064","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The study presents a novel two-level analytical framework based on three-dimensional elasticity theory that efficiently captures the complex stress interactions in thick-walled composite pipes subjected to simultaneous internal pressure, axial force, torsion, and bending. The model employs stress superposition to decouple axisymmetric and asymmetric loading effects, achieving computational efficiency improvements of two orders of magnitude compared to traditional finite element methods whilst maintaining comparable accuracy. Through comprehensive parametric studies, it was demonstrated that optimal fibre orientation is inherently load-dependent: high-angle layups (±75°) excel under pressure-dominated conditions but exhibit rapid performance degradation with increasing torsional loads, whilst medium-angle configurations (±45°) provide superior damage tolerance across varied loading scenarios. The study introduces an innovative ‘maximum load diagram’ methodology that transforms the design process from discrete point evaluation to continuous design space exploration, enabling identification of both global optima and manufacturing-robust plateau regions. These findings have immediate applications in subsea pipeline design, drill pipe optimisation, and broader implications for any cylindrical composite structure experiencing complex loading conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 512-520"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102722","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.065
Sunny O. Uguzo , Oleksandr Menshykov , Marina Menshykova , Maria Kashtalyan
The study examined the effects of the laminate architecture and geometry on the buckling capacity, material strength and failure of thermoplastic composite pipes (TCPs) under combined thermomechanical loading using finite element (FE) modelling. A validated 3D FE model assessed some TCPs with varied laminate configurations using linear buckling and failure analyses with temperature dependent material properties. Findings indicated the decline in buckling strength with increasing thermal gradient. It was found that at low temperatures failure mode depends on the configuration, while at high temperatures the liner plastic yielding is the dominant mode of failure. Furthermore, TCPs with hybrid laminates mixing low and high angle plies provided the best balance of buckling and material strength. The results presented practical design insights for the temperature resilient TCPs.
{"title":"Numerical modelling of the effects of laminate ply orientation and pipe geometry on thermoplastic composite pipe failure under thermomechanical loading","authors":"Sunny O. Uguzo , Oleksandr Menshykov , Marina Menshykova , Maria Kashtalyan","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.065","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.065","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The study examined the effects of the laminate architecture and geometry on the buckling capacity, material strength and failure of thermoplastic composite pipes (TCPs) under combined thermomechanical loading using finite element (FE) modelling. A validated 3D FE model assessed some TCPs with varied laminate configurations using linear buckling and failure analyses with temperature dependent material properties. Findings indicated the decline in buckling strength with increasing thermal gradient. It was found that at low temperatures failure mode depends on the configuration, while at high temperatures the liner plastic yielding is the dominant mode of failure. Furthermore, TCPs with hybrid laminates mixing low and high angle plies provided the best balance of buckling and material strength. The results presented practical design insights for the temperature resilient TCPs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 521-528"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102723","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.073
Francisco Afonso , Hugo Mesquita Vasconcelos , João Nunes , Susana Dias , Pedro J.S.C.P. Sousa , Paulo J. Tavares , Pedro M.G.J. Moreira , Cassiano Linhares , André Branquinho
Prior to deployment, industrial transformers undergo vacuum drying and structural integrity tests to ensure that they are structurally sound and safe to operate. Optical methods offer a promising, non-contact solution for three-dimensional measurements of structural deformation across different sections of a transformer in a factory environment. Preliminary tests were conducted using a stereo optical system and a phase-shifting (PS) terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) to measure surface displacements on EFACEC industrial transformers during a near-vacuum pressure test. The stereo system captured image pairs of speckle patterns affixed to one transformer wall, which were processed using digital image correlation (DIC), while the TLS acquired point clouds of the same surfaces. The measurements were then compared against simulation data. Since painting the transformer’s surface was not possible, alternative speckle patterns were evaluated, such as using magnets and printing on adhesive paper. Both the DIC and TLS produced adequate measurements in a factory setting, with some variation found in the measurements between methods and simulated data. These discrepancies could be attributable to ambient vibrations, necessary personnel access through the area where the optical systems were installed, the alternative speckle implementation, which may yield lower quality results when compared to painted patterns, non optimal speckle sizes due to uncertainty in available space prior to testing, and errors in the simulated data. Despite these challenges, the results show small absolute differences, the highest with an order of magnitude of 10-3m, the lowest with 10-5m, and the remaining differences with an order of magnitude of 10-4m, motivating further research.
This work is a result of Agenda “ATE – Aliança para a Transição Energética”, no. C644914747-00000023, investment project no. 56, financed by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR) and by European Union – NextGeneration EU.
在部署之前，工业变压器要经过真空干燥和结构完整性测试，以确保它们的结构健全和安全运行。光学方法为工厂环境中变压器不同部分的结构变形的三维测量提供了一种很有前途的非接触式解决方案。在近真空压力测试中，使用立体光学系统和相移（PS）地面激光扫描仪（TLS）进行了初步测试，以测量EFACEC工业变压器的表面位移。立体系统捕获粘贴在一个变压器壁上的散斑图案图像对，并使用数字图像相关（DIC）对其进行处理，而TLS获取相同表面的点云。然后将测量结果与模拟数据进行比较。由于不可能在变压器表面涂漆，因此对其他散斑图案进行了评估，例如使用磁铁和在粘合纸上印刷。DIC和TLS都在工厂设置中产生了足够的测量值，在方法和模拟数据之间的测量值中发现了一些差异。这些差异可能是由于环境振动、必要的人员进入安装光学系统的区域、可选择的散斑实施（与喷漆模式相比可能产生较低的质量结果）、测试前可用空间的不确定性导致的非最佳散斑尺寸，以及模拟数据中的错误。尽管存在这些挑战，但结果显示出较小的绝对差异，最高为10-3m，最低为10-5m，其余差异为10-4m，值得进一步研究。这项工作是“ATE - aliana para o energytica”议程的结果。C644914747-00000023，投资项目编号：56，由恢复和弹性计划（PRR）和欧盟-下一代欧盟资助。
{"title":"Non-contact structural analysis of transformer housings under dynamic loading conditions using vision-based 3D measurement techniques","authors":"Francisco Afonso , Hugo Mesquita Vasconcelos , João Nunes , Susana Dias , Pedro J.S.C.P. Sousa , Paulo J. Tavares , Pedro M.G.J. Moreira , Cassiano Linhares , André Branquinho","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.073","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.073","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Prior to deployment, industrial transformers undergo vacuum drying and structural integrity tests to ensure that they are structurally sound and safe to operate. Optical methods offer a promising, non-contact solution for three-dimensional measurements of structural deformation across different sections of a transformer in a factory environment. Preliminary tests were conducted using a stereo optical system and a phase-shifting (PS) terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) to measure surface displacements on EFACEC industrial transformers during a near-vacuum pressure test. The stereo system captured image pairs of speckle patterns affixed to one transformer wall, which were processed using digital image correlation (DIC), while the TLS acquired point clouds of the same surfaces. The measurements were then compared against simulation data. Since painting the transformer’s surface was not possible, alternative speckle patterns were evaluated, such as using magnets and printing on adhesive paper. Both the DIC and TLS produced adequate measurements in a factory setting, with some variation found in the measurements between methods and simulated data. These discrepancies could be attributable to ambient vibrations, necessary personnel access through the area where the optical systems were installed, the alternative speckle implementation, which may yield lower quality results when compared to painted patterns, non optimal speckle sizes due to uncertainty in available space prior to testing, and errors in the simulated data. Despite these challenges, the results show small absolute differences, the highest with an order of magnitude of 10<sup>-3</sup>m, the lowest with 10<sup>-5</sup>m, and the remaining differences with an order of magnitude of 10<sup>-4</sup>m, motivating further research.</div><div>This work is a result of Agenda “ATE – Aliança para a Transição Energética”, no. C644914747-00000023, investment project no. 56, financed by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR) and by European Union – NextGeneration EU.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 575-583"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102730","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.043
Eva Graf , Tolgay Akkurt , Georg Baumann , Sebastian Wurm , Jaan Kers , Florian Feist , Christof Sommitsch , Josef Domitner
The demand for sustainable lightweight materials that replace conventional non-renewable materials has strongly increased in the automotive sector. In this respect, wood as a renewable resource provides favorable mechanical properties. However, its low fracture elongation under tensile loading, susceptibility to splintering, and high anisotropy require reinforcement strategies to achieve the desired structural performance. Therefore, this study optimizes aluminum-wood composites for improving their performance under quasi-static and dynamic bending. The composites were fabricated from birch plywood, consisting of nine adhesive-bonded birch veneers (0.5 mm thickness each, bonded with phenol formaldehyde), reinforced on one side with a 1 mm-thick EN AW-6016-T4 aluminum alloy sheet. To bond the aluminum sheet to the plywood, three different adhesives were applied: phenol formaldehyde (PF), two-component polyurethane (PUR), and two-component epoxy (EP).
The layered structure of the composite reduced the variation of the bending properties of plywood. Compared to aluminum alloy sheets of similar weight, the aluminum-wood composites showed superior lightweight potential as well as improved bending performance in terms of maximum bending force and impact energy. Bending behavior was comparable for PF- and PUR-bonded composites, with negligible debonding under quasi-static loading. EP-bonded composites exhibited pronounced debonding.
{"title":"Bending behavior of laminated aluminum-wood composites made of thin birch veneers – a prestudy","authors":"Eva Graf , Tolgay Akkurt , Georg Baumann , Sebastian Wurm , Jaan Kers , Florian Feist , Christof Sommitsch , Josef Domitner","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.043","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.043","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The demand for sustainable lightweight materials that replace conventional non-renewable materials has strongly increased in the automotive sector. In this respect, wood as a renewable resource provides favorable mechanical properties. However, its low fracture elongation under tensile loading, susceptibility to splintering, and high anisotropy require reinforcement strategies to achieve the desired structural performance. Therefore, this study optimizes aluminum-wood composites for improving their performance under quasi-static and dynamic bending. The composites were fabricated from birch plywood, consisting of nine adhesive-bonded birch veneers (0.5 mm thickness each, bonded with phenol formaldehyde), reinforced on one side with a 1 mm-thick EN AW-6016-T4 aluminum alloy sheet. To bond the aluminum sheet to the plywood, three different adhesives were applied: phenol formaldehyde (PF), two-component polyurethane (PUR), and two-component epoxy (EP).</div><div>The layered structure of the composite reduced the variation of the bending properties of plywood. Compared to aluminum alloy sheets of similar weight, the aluminum-wood composites showed superior lightweight potential as well as improved bending performance in terms of maximum bending force and impact energy. Bending behavior was comparable for PF- and PUR-bonded composites, with negligible debonding under quasi-static loading. EP-bonded composites exhibited pronounced debonding.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 331-338"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102792","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.047
Niels Grigat , Ben Vollbrecht , Fabian Jung , Marcus Welsh , Dr. Kumar Jois
The demand for advanced pipeline materials has increased in response to the growing need for sustainable, durable, and structurally resilient solutions in the transportation of energy and resources, in particular high-pressurized gaseous hydrogen. Whilst traditional steel pipelines are widely utilised, they are susceptible to hydrogen-induced corrosion, which compromises their structural integrity, efficiency, and lifespan. Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) composites present a transformative alternative, offering exceptional resistance to corrosion, enhanced mechanical properties, and adaptability for various pipeline applications. The present study investigates the potential of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites to replace steel in the construction of hydrogen transport pipelines, with a particular focus on structural integrity in the context of gaseous hydrogen transport.
Research conducted at the Institute for Textile Technology (ITA) at RWTH Aachen University addresses crucial aspects of FRP pipeline development with an emphasis on structural performance. The subjects encompassed material characterisation for the purpose of determining hydrogen permeation rates and evaluating barrier properties, in addition to advances in process technology for scalable and efficient production utilising multifilament winding techniques. Moreover, the research evaluates connection technologies to ensure secure and reliable pipeline assembly, as well as life cycle analyses to quantify the environmental and economic benefits of FRP pipelines compared to traditional steel systems.
The comprehensive findings from this study emphasise the technical and economic viability of FRP composites, underscoring their resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, superior mechanical performance, and long-term sustainability. These insights underscore the potential of fibre-reinforced composites as a pivotal solution for the next generation of pipeline technology, advancing the structural integrity of pipelines and supporting the transition to a hydrogen-based energy system.
{"title":"Advancing Structural integrity in Hydrogen Transport – The role of fibre-reinforced composites materials in pipeline Technology","authors":"Niels Grigat , Ben Vollbrecht , Fabian Jung , Marcus Welsh , Dr. Kumar Jois","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.047","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.047","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The demand for advanced pipeline materials has increased in response to the growing need for sustainable, durable, and structurally resilient solutions in the transportation of energy and resources, in particular high-pressurized gaseous hydrogen. Whilst traditional steel pipelines are widely utilised, they are susceptible to hydrogen-induced corrosion, which compromises their structural integrity, efficiency, and lifespan. Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) composites present a transformative alternative, offering exceptional resistance to corrosion, enhanced mechanical properties, and adaptability for various pipeline applications. The present study investigates the potential of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites to replace steel in the construction of hydrogen transport pipelines, with a particular focus on structural integrity in the context of gaseous hydrogen transport.</div><div>Research conducted at the Institute for Textile Technology (ITA) at RWTH Aachen University addresses crucial aspects of FRP pipeline development with an emphasis on structural performance. The subjects encompassed material characterisation for the purpose of determining hydrogen permeation rates and evaluating barrier properties, in addition to advances in process technology for scalable and efficient production utilising multifilament winding techniques. Moreover, the research evaluates connection technologies to ensure secure and reliable pipeline assembly, as well as life cycle analyses to quantify the environmental and economic benefits of FRP pipelines compared to traditional steel systems.</div><div>The comprehensive findings from this study emphasise the technical and economic viability of FRP composites, underscoring their resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, superior mechanical performance, and long-term sustainability. These insights underscore the potential of fibre-reinforced composites as a pivotal solution for the next generation of pipeline technology, advancing the structural integrity of pipelines and supporting the transition to a hydrogen-based energy system.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 365-375"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102796","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.054
Behzad Vasheghani Farahani , Margo Cauwels , Fuhui Shen , Tom Depover , Kim Verbeken , Wim De Waele
This study presents the development and implementation of a numerical framework to assess the structural integrity of welded components subjected to hydrogen embrittlement (HE). The framework accounts for heterogeneous material properties and incorporates a hydrogen informed Gurson type damage model. Due to the inherent microstructural heterogeneity across the weld metal (WM) and heat affected zone (HAZ) regions, a spatially varying material response must be considered in numerical analysis. To address this, an element-specific property assignment strategy is adopted. The yield strength and hardening properties in the WM and HAZ regions are derived from a local hardness value, extracted from Vickers hardness maps of pipeline girth welds. Locally derived mechanical properties are assigned to each element in the numerical model to provide a description of the heterogeneous mechanical response. Different hydrogen-related parameters are assigned to the WM, HAZ and base metal, through explicit fusion line definitions based on a macro photograph of the girth welded joint. The proposed numerical framework allows for the detailed study of the HE in heterogeneous welded joints, capturing damage behavior and accounting for local variations in mechanical and hydrogen-related properties. It enhances the predictive capability of finite element simulations for assessing the integrity of girth welded pipelines operating in hydrogen environments.
{"title":"Modelling Hydrogen Embrittlement in Heterogeneous Welded Joints","authors":"Behzad Vasheghani Farahani , Margo Cauwels , Fuhui Shen , Tom Depover , Kim Verbeken , Wim De Waele","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.054","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.054","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study presents the development and implementation of a numerical framework to assess the structural integrity of welded components subjected to hydrogen embrittlement (HE). The framework accounts for heterogeneous material properties and incorporates a hydrogen informed Gurson type damage model. Due to the inherent microstructural heterogeneity across the weld metal (WM) and heat affected zone (HAZ) regions, a spatially varying material response must be considered in numerical analysis. To address this, an element-specific property assignment strategy is adopted. The yield strength and hardening properties in the WM and HAZ regions are derived from a local hardness value, extracted from Vickers hardness maps of pipeline girth welds. Locally derived mechanical properties are assigned to each element in the numerical model to provide a description of the heterogeneous mechanical response. Different hydrogen-related parameters are assigned to the WM, HAZ and base metal, through explicit fusion line definitions based on a macro photograph of the girth welded joint. The proposed numerical framework allows for the detailed study of the HE in heterogeneous welded joints, capturing damage behavior and accounting for local variations in mechanical and hydrogen-related properties. It enhances the predictive capability of finite element simulations for assessing the integrity of girth welded pipelines operating in hydrogen environments.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 424-431"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102806","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.030
Alireza Shadmani , Dieter Fauconnier , Wim De Waele
Leading edge erosion of polyurethane (PU) coatings, driven by repeated high-speed raindroplet impacts, is a critical issue that limits the operational longevity of wind turbine blades. To investigate the degradation behavior of PU coatings, this study employs a numerical model integrating continuum damage mechanics (CDM) with finite element analysis. The model is specifically developed to track the progression of micro-scale damage in PU coatings subjected to cyclic, high-speed raindroplet impact pressures. Results demonstrate that the transient pressure from raindroplet impacts is the primary driver of degradation, creating localized high-stress regions that rapidly accelerate damage accumulation at subsurface levels. With repetitive impacts, this localized damage propagates downward and upward from the impact zone, reaching the surface. The analysis confirms a direct correlation between peak damage and maximum impact pressure, quantifying the cumulative effect of repeated raindroplet strikes on coating.
{"title":"Continuum damage model for the polyurethane coating of wind turbine blades","authors":"Alireza Shadmani , Dieter Fauconnier , Wim De Waele","doi":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.030","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prostr.2026.01.030","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Leading edge erosion of polyurethane (PU) coatings, driven by repeated high-speed raindroplet impacts, is a critical issue that limits the operational longevity of wind turbine blades. To investigate the degradation behavior of PU coatings, this study employs a numerical model integrating continuum damage mechanics (CDM) with finite element analysis. The model is specifically developed to track the progression of micro-scale damage in PU coatings subjected to cyclic, high-speed raindroplet impact pressures. Results demonstrate that the transient pressure from raindroplet impacts is the primary driver of degradation, creating localized high-stress regions that rapidly accelerate damage accumulation at subsurface levels. With repetitive impacts, this localized damage propagates downward and upward from the impact zone, reaching the surface. The analysis confirms a direct correlation between peak damage and maximum impact pressure, quantifying the cumulative effect of repeated raindroplet strikes on coating.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":20518,"journal":{"name":"Procedia Structural Integrity","volume":"77 ","pages":"Pages 221-228"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102880","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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