Work

Interface structure and characterization analysis of carbon fiber/polypropylene with β-crystals

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Interface structure between thermoplastic polypropylene and carbon fiber is crucial for determining the reinforcement effect in the carbon fiber reinforced polypropylene composites (CF/PP). Currently, the controlled regulation and quantitative characterization of different crystal forms within the interfacial crystallization remain unresolved challenges. In this study, carbon fibers were functionalized with polyethyleneimine (PEI) and immobilized with varying concentrations of the β-nucleating agents (β-NAs), enabling controlled formation of β-crystals in the transcrystalline (TC) layers. Advanced characterization confirmed tunable β-crystal concentration and morphology. Results demonstrate that increased β-crystal content enhances interfacial shear strength (IFSS). Peak Force Quantitative Nanomechanical Mapping (PF-QNM) revealed that enhanced IFSS is primarily attributed to increased interface thickness induced by β-crystal formation. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations further elucidated that interfacial crystallization and increased thickness strengthen interfacial interactions at the molecular scale, validating experimental trends. This work provides multiscale evidences for tunable interfacial β-crystals, offering new strategies for designing high-performance CF/PP composites.

Source: Composites Part A Applied Science and Manufacturing

DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesa.2025.109294

Authors: Zhihao Yao, Yixin Qi, Zixi Li, Dazhi Jiang

Institutions: Sun Yat-sen University, North University of China

Language: English

Topic: Polymer crystallization and properties

Subfield: Polymers and Plastics

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,480

Funder: National Natural Science Foundation of China