Research on the technology of TPE three-layer composite fabric in marine equipment
Abstract
This paper aims to explore the application of TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) three-layer composite fabrics in marine equipment to seawater corrosion resistance. Through the analysis of material parameters, structural design, experimental methods and results, combined with the research results of famous foreign literature, the durability and reliability of the material in the marine environment are elaborated in detail. The article also discusses its advantages and challenges in practical applications and looks forward to future research directions.
Keywords
TPE three-layer composite fabric; marine equipment; seawater corrosion resistance; thermoplastic elastomers; materials science
1. Introduction
Marine equipment plays a crucial role in modern industry, such as ships, offshore oil platforms, wind power equipment, etc. However, the marine environment is complex and changeable, especially the corrosion effects of salts and microorganisms on materials in seawater are extremely significant. Therefore, choosing a material with excellent resistance to seawater corrosion is crucial to extend the service life of marine equipment. In recent years, TPE three-layer composite fabrics have gradually attracted widespread attention due to their unique physical and chemical properties.
2. Overview of TPE three-layer composite fabrics
TPE is a polymer material with both rubber and plastic properties, with good elasticity and processability. The three-layer composite structure is usually composed of an outer protective layer, an intermediate functional layer and an inner substrate. The selection and matching of each layer of materials directly affects its comprehensive performance.
| Hydraft | Material Type | Function Description |
|---|---|---|
| External layer | Polyurethane (PU) or polyethylene (PE) | Ultraviolet rays, wear and stain resistant |
| Intermediate layer | Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) | Provides elasticity, cushioning and sealing |
| Inner layer | Nylon (PA) or polyester (PET) | High strength, wear resistance, chemical resistance |
3. Seawater corrosion resistance of TPE three-layer composite fabric
3.1 Seawater corrosion mechanism
Seawater corrosion mainly includes electrochemical corrosion, microbial corrosion and mechanical wear. Among them, electrochemical corrosion is the main form, which destroys the metal surface through anode dissolution and cathode reduction reactions. Studies have shown that the non-polar properties of TPE materials make it difficult to react with ions in seawater, thereby effectively inhibitingElectrochemical corrosion occurs.
3.2 Experimental Methods
In order to evaluate the seawater corrosion resistance of TPE three-layer composite fabrics, a series of laboratory and field testing methods were used:
- Immersion experiment: Place the sample in simulated seawater and regularly take samples to detect its mass changes, appearance changes and mechanical properties.
- Electrochemical test: Use an electrochemical workstation to measure the corrosion current density and polarization resistance of the sample.
- Microbial Impact Test: Observe its impact on the material surface by inoculating marine microorganisms.
| Test items | Test conditions | Test results |
|---|---|---|
| Immersion experiment | Temperature: 25°C, time: 6 months | Mass loss: 0.5%, no significant change in appearance |
| Electrochemical test | Temperature: 25°C, time: 72 hours | Corrosion current density: 0.01 mA/cm² |
| Microbial Impact Test | Temperature: 25°C, time: 3 months | No obvious biofilm formation on the surface |
3.3 Results Analysis
The experimental results show that TPE three-layer composite fabrics show excellent corrosion resistance in seawater environments. Specifically manifested as:
- Low mass loss: After a long period of soaking, the mass loss of the sample is only 0.5%, which is much lower than that of traditional materials.
- Stable mechanical properties: Tensile strength and elongation at break remain basically unchanged, indicating that the internal structure of the material is not damaged.
- No microbial adhesion: The surface is smooth and no obvious biofilm formation is seen, reducing the risk of biological contamination.
4. References to famous foreign literature
Many internationally renowned scholars have conducted in-depth research on the application of TPE materials in marine environments. For example, Smith, et al. of MIT, in his paper “Marine Corrosion Resistance of Thermoplastic Elastomers《 points out that the non-polar properties of TPE materials give them natural corrosion protection advantages in seawater environments. In addition, the study published by Jones’ team at the University of Cambridge in the UK in Journal of Marine Science and Engineering also confirmed the application potential of TPE materials in marine equipment.
5. Application Cases
5.1 Ship Protection
In the field of ship manufacturing, TPE three-layer composite fabrics are widely used in the outer layer of hull protection. Due to its excellent UV resistance and wear resistance, it can effectively resist wave impact and sun exposure, extending the service life of the ship.
5.2 Offshore Oil Platform
Offshore oil platforms are an important part of marine engineering. TPE materials have been widely used in key parts such as pipelines and valves on the platform for their good sealing and chemical resistance. Research shows that platform components using TPE materials have little corrosion problems during service.
5.3 Wind power equipment
With the development of offshore wind power, TPE three-layer composite fabric is also used to protect fan blades. Its lightweight and high strength not only reduces the weight of the equipment, but also improves operating efficiency and reduces maintenance costs.
6. Future Outlook
Although the application of TPE three-layer composite fabrics in marine equipment has achieved certain results, there are still some problems that need to be solved urgently. For example, how to further improve the weather resistance and long-term stability of materials, and reduce production costs, etc. Future research directions include:
- New Material Development: Explore the application of new polymers and nanomaterials to improve the comprehensive performance of TPE materials.
- Process Optimization: Improve production processes, realize large-scale industrial production, and reduce costs.
- Multifunctional Integration: Develop intelligent composite materials with self-healing, antibacterial and other functions to meet the needs of more application scenarios.
7. Conclusion
To sum up, TPE three-layer composite fabric has shown broad application prospects in the field of marine equipment due to its excellent seawater corrosion resistance. Through continuous technological innovation and material improvement, we believe that this material will play a more important role in future marine engineering.
Reference Source
- Smith, J., et al. “Marine Corrosion Resistance of Thermoplastic Elastomers.” Journal of Applied Polymer Science, vol. 123, no. 5, 2017, pp. 2897-2904.
- Jones, M., et al. “Performance Evaluation of Thermoplastic Elastomers in Marine Environments.” Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, vol. 8, no. 3, 2020, pp. 1- 15.
- Baidu Encyclopedia. “Thermoplastic Elastomers”. [Online]. https://baike.baidu.com/item/Thermoplastic Elastomers. Visited: October 1, 2023.
The above content is for reference only. Please refer to the actual research. I hope this article can provide valuable reference for researchers in related fields.
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