In situ formation of a carbon nanotube buckypaper for improving the interlaminar properties of carbon fiber composites
Yadong Wu, Xiuyan Cheng, Shaoyun Chen, Bo Qu, Rui Wang, Dongxian Zhuo, Lixin Wu
Abstract
To improve the interlaminar properties of carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRPs), a hybrid fiber mat (i-MBP-PCF) was prepared by in situ deposition of a multiwalled carbon nanotube buckypaper (i-MBP) on the surface of functionalized CF fabric (PCF). The effect of the hybrid fiber mat on the interlaminar and electrical properties was systematically investigated. The results showed that the i-MBP-PCF hybrid fiber mat showed excellent interlaminar and electrical property enhancement functions. The interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), Mode-II interlaminar fracture toughness (GIIC), and electrical conductivity in the out-of-plane direction of i-MBP-PCF/EP increased 68.6%, 44.4%, and 6080%, respectively, compared to those of the CF/EP composite.