Graphene oxide modified carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites

Abstract

The interfacial interaction between the fiber and matrix is the most important factor which influences the performance of the carbon fiber-epoxy composites. In this study, the graphitic surface of the carbon fibers was modified with graphene oxide nanomaterials by using a spray coating technique which is an easy, cheap, and quick method. The carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy matrix composites were prepared by hand layup technique using neat carbon fibers and 0.5, 1 and 2% by weight graphene oxide (GO) modified carbon fibers. As a result of SEM analysis, it was observed that GO particles were homogeneously coated on the surface of the carbon fibers. Furthermore, Young's modulus increased from 35.14 to 43.40 GPa, tensile strength increased from 436 to 672 MPa, and the elongation at break was maintained around 2% even in only 2% GO addition.