The ultimate properties of carbon fibers and their composites are largely dictated by the surface topography of the fibers and the interface characteristics, which are directly influenced by the surface distribution of chemical functionalities and their interactions with the matrix resin. We perform nanoscale characterization of modified carbon fibers using high-resolution atomic force microscopy (HRAFM) to provide critical nanoscale insight into the subtle effects of the carbon fiber surface, which are crucial for designing next-generation fiber composites. We compare the nanoscale surface characteristics relevant to their role in controlling interfacial interactions for carbon fibers manufactured under identical thermal conditions but at two different tensions and two distinct chemical surfaces with functionalized coatings. We used nanopore profiling, microroughness analysis, power spectral density analysis, and adhesion mapping from HRAFM images to reveal fine details of surface characteristics at different length scales. This analysis reveals how inherent carbon fiber surface morphology influences the nanomechanics at the interface, controlling mechanical interlocking and chemical bonding for stronger interphases in composites.<b> </b>

Carbon fiber surface functional landscape: Nanoscale porosity and adhesion distribution

ACS Fall 2021

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