Preparation of CNTs/SCF reinforcement to achieve synergistic improvement of epoxy resin-based composites interfacial properties
Researchers found that using a silane/maleimide-comodified water-based polyurethane (WPU-M-S) as a sizing agent in combination with furan-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs-FA) through chemical modification methods significantly improves the surface properties of carbon fibers
The silane/maleimide co-modified waterborne polyurethane (WPU-M-S) sizing agent and furan-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs-FA) were prepared through chemical modification method. The continuous grafting of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was realized on the carbon fiber surface by multiple continuous surface treatments, including electrochemical anodizing (EAO), sizing, and chemical grafting of CNTs. The stable physical and chemical connection between carbon fiber, sizing agent, and resin was constructed through the preparation of CNTs/SCF reinforcement.
The results of different surface treatment processes such as ultrasound and CNTs grafting process were contrastively studied in terms of surface morphology, microstructure, and mechanical properties. It is reflected that carbon fiber grafted with CNTs-FA (CNTs/SCF) that were prepared by ultrasound assisted chemical grafting provide optimal wettability and interfacial performance. The interfacial shear strength (IFSS) and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of CNTs/SCF reinforced epoxy resin composites are 115.37 % and 93.91 % higher than those of the untreated carbon fiber (UCF), respectively. The synergistic improvement mechanism of reinforcement on carbon fiber reinforced epoxy resin composites interfacial properties was proposed. This research provides a multiple continuous surface treatment technology that matches the industrial production of carbon fiber to prepare CNTs/SCF reinforcement.
This study has been published in Progress in Organic Coatings, Volume 187, February 2024.
