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Interlayer toughened unidirectional carbon prepreg systems: effect of preformed particle morphology

2003; Elsevier BV; Volume: 34; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/s1359-835x(02)00141-0

1878-5840

Eric N. Gilbert, Brian S. Hayes, James C. Seferis,

Polymer crystallization and properties

A new production process was used to change the surface morphology and reduce the water sensitivity of a commercial preformed rubber particle used for interlayer composite toughening. These particles were incorporated in a model epoxy resin and impregnated into unidirectional carbon fibers. The mode II fracture toughness of a laminate made with experimental particles was 250% higher than the control system and 100% higher than a laminate made with the commercial preformed rubber particles. The new particles were also found to reduce the damage area resulting from impact; however, the ultimate laminate compression strength after impact was lower for the experimental particle modified composite than the commercial particle modified laminate. The composites were also subjected to hot–wet conditions and the initial water absorption rate was less for the experimental particle modified laminates than the laminate containing the commercial material. Yet, after 6400 h, the laminates made with experimental particles were found to absorb more water than the other materials.