Anomalous fluid sorption in polymeric composites and its relation to fluid-induced damage

The purpose of this paper is to review several investigations regarding anomalous fluid sorption in polymeric composites and provide a certain perspective on this subject. This article recounts various experimental weight-gain and weight-loss data recordered for polymeric composites exposed to different regimes of ambient fluid environments. These data are related qualitatively to observations of damage in the form of fiber/matrix microcracks. A coupled diffusion/damage model is discussed and shown to provide a reasonable explanation for experimental findings. It should be noted that the model discussed herein excludes chemical reactions and long-term effects where polymeric time-dependent response couples with the diffusion process.