Improvement of the Interfacial Adhesion Between Fiber and Matrix

Abstract In this work, the influence of carbon fiber surface treatment on mechanical properties of unsaturated polyester was investigated. Two approaches have been used in the surface treatment; the first is the desizing of the carbon fiber by the release of the epoxy layer. The second is with the release of epoxy layer and etching the fibers. It was concluded that both methods give good results on adhesion between the matrix and the fibers. It is found that the treatment of carbon fibers is efficient and greatly improves the CFRP handress. The tensile strength of composite materials increases by 30% for etched carbon fibers compared to untreated carbon fibers.SEM images confirm the results obtained.