Synergistically enhancing weavability and interface behavior by applying PDMS/MXene on carbon fiber surface through ultrasound assistance

The poor interfacial properties and weavability of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites stem from the surface chemical inertness and low wear resistance of carbon fiber (CF). Herein, we developed an effective approach to fabricate the CF@Polydimethylsiloxane/MXene (CF@PDMS/MXene) using ultrasound-assisted techniques, to improve both wear resistance and interfacial properties. The effectiveness of the modified treatment was assessed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), microscopic confocal laser Raman spectrometer (Raman), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The success of the graft was evaluated using field emission scanning electron microscopes (FE-SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The interfacial shear strength (IFSS) of the composite was evaluated through fiber pull-out experiments. Different weight ratios of MXene nanoparticles were employed during the grafting process to investigate their impact on surface morphology, wear resistance, and interfacial properties. The results demonstrated that CF@PDMS/MXene-1.5 wt% exhibited a residual fracture tensile strength 14.8 % higher than desized CF when the MXene concentration was increased to 1.5 wt%. Additionally, the IFSS of CF@PDMS/MXene-1.5 wt% was observed to be 113 % greater than desized CF. Consequently, this novel modification strategy holds great promise for enhancing the mechanical performance of CFRP composites.