1. Fields of application

The use of composite enclosures subjected to internal pressures is well known [ AM5530 ]. Less common, however, are applications of composite enclosures underwater, and thus subject to external pressures. However, there are a number of reasons why such applications are on the increase. Firstly, the specific properties of these materials are particularly well suited to this type of environment, especially with carbon fiber reinforcement (table 1 ) [2].