Estudio experimental de la influencia de burbujas en las propiedades mecánicas de laminados en casco en yate

Abstract

This study analyzes how entrapped gas bubbles affect GFRP laminate repairs on the yacht El Mangle, located in the Galápagos Islands. Representative specimens—both with and without defects—were designed and fabricated, and tensile tests were performed according to ISO 527-4. Force–displacement curves were converted into stress–strain curves, from which mechanical parameters were calculated: maximum stress (σ_max), Young’s modulus (E), and strain at break (ε_break), along with energy-based metrics, including total toughness, pre-peak fracture energy, and post-peak residual energy. The results show that the presence of bubbles reduces ultimate strength, elastic modulus, and strain at break, and markedly decreases absorbed energy, indicating lower damage tolerance and a loss of load-carrying capacity. Statistical analysis confirms the magnitude and significance of these changes, supporting proposed evaluation criteria based on allowable property losses and defect morphology. Process recommendations are presented—such as improved impregnation, deaeration, compaction, and curing—together with inspection techniques like magnetic particle testing (NDT), to enhance the reliability of GFRP repairs in service. Keywords: GFRP, bubbles, properties, influence.