Abstract
In this study, carbon fibers (CFs) were coated with graphene nanoplatelets (GnP), using a robust and continuous coating process. CFs were directly immersed in a stable GnP suspension and the coating conditions were optimized in order to obtain a high density of homogeneously and well-dispersed GnP. GnP coated CFs/epoxy composites were manufactured by a prepreg and lay-up method, and the mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of the composites were assessed. The GnP coated CFs/epoxy composites showed 52%, 7%, and 19% of increase in comparison with non-coated CFs/epoxy composites, for 90° flexural strength, 0° flexural strength and interlaminar shear strength, respectively. Meanwhile, incorporating GnP in the CF/epoxy interphase significantly improved the electrical conductivity through the thickness direction by creating a conductive path between the fibers.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 335-341 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Composites Part B: Engineering |
Volume | 69 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Feb 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |
Funding
The financial supports of the China Scholarship Council and Michigan State University ( RC103337 ) are acknowledged. Hexcel Co, XG Sciences, Hexion and Sigma–Aldrich are sincerely thanked for supplying carbon fibers, graphene nanoplatelets, epoxy resin and associated curing agent and NMP solvent, respectively. Edward Drown from the Composite Materials and Structures Center of Michigan State University is thanked for his contribution in the production of UV/ozone surface treated CFs. Per Askeland, Michael Rich and Brian Rook the Composite Materials and Structures Center are also thanked for their training and advice.
Funders | Funder number |
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Michigan State University | RC103337 |
China Scholarship Council |
Keywords
- A. Carbon fiber
- A. Nano-structures
- B. Mechanical properties
- E. Autoclave