Interfacial adhesion enhancement in high‐modulus carbon fiber/poly (ether ether ketone) composites: through the flexible macromolecule‐grafted‐carbon nanotubes sizing treatment

Abstract In this study, a flexible macromolecule‐grafted‐carbon nanotube (t‐CTN‐SPEEK) is developed and utilized as bridge to enhance the interfacial properties of high‐modulus carbon fiber (HM‐CF) reinforced poly (ether ether ketone) (PEEK) composites. With t‐CTN‐SPEEK sizing, the wettability of HM‐CF is enhanced, thereby promoting better resin wetting. The increased roughness induced by the t‐CTNs‐SPEEK on the surface of the HM‐CF affords improved mechanical interlocking among interface. Additionally, SPEEK enhances the interfacial compatibility of the composites. Thus, after the t‐CTN‐SPEEK sizing treatment, the composite exhibits the best interfacial shear strength (IFSS), as evaluated using the interfacial strength evaluation instrument. This paper also discusses in detail the interfacial strengthening mechanism after sizing and presents a promising approach to enhancing the interfacial properties of HM‐CF composites.