Abstract
A novel CVD grown 3D network graphene is used as interleaves to toughen and strengthen glass fiber reinforced epoxy composite (GF/EP). Remarkable increases of 70% and 206% in mode I and mode II interlaminar fracture energies, respectively, and 36% enhancement in interlaminar shear strength are achieved in GF/EP by incorporating network graphene in the failure-prone mid-plane compared to those composite laminates without interleaves. Pertinent toughening mechanisms include crack deflection and formation of interfacial micro-cracks with significant increase in surface areas owing to the 3D hollow sphere-like graphene wrapping around the epoxy matrix as well as graphene fracture and slippage between adjacent layers.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 978-986 |
| Number of pages | 9 |
| Journal | Carbon |
| Volume | 95 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 11 Oct 2015 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry
- General Materials Science