Work

Thermal and Mechanical Characterization of Functionalized Graphene–Carbon Fiber Composites

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Graphene is a novel material that can bring several advantages in the composite materials manufacturing field, such as improved electrical and thermal properties, and high performance. In particular, functionalizing current composite materials can bring advantages in the aerospace field in thermal management for electric aircraft engines. This paper studies the addition of graphene particles into carbon fiber composites manufactured by the Resin Transfer Molding Process (RTM). Thermal and mechanical properties are evaluated and compared with a conventional composite laminate. Major improvements were achieved on the thermal behavior of the composite material while maintaining general properties, but in particular, the addition of graphene had a negative impact on transverse tensile and mode II fracture toughness due to agglomerates present in the fiber–resin interface.

Source: Aerospace

DOI: 10.3390/aerospace13060558

Authors: Mario Román Rodríguez, Cristian Builes Cárdenas, Elena Rodríguez Senín, Adrián López González

Institutions: Asociación de Investigación Metalúrgica del Noroeste, Universidade de Vigo

Language: English

Topic: Fiber-reinforced polymer composites

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896

Funder: Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico Industrial