Constructing a Porous Structure on the Carbon Fiber Surface for Simultaneously Strengthening and Toughening the Interface of Composites

, respectively. These values were 61.30 and 121.98% higher than those of pristine fiber/resin composites, respectively. The strengthening effect was ascribed to the synergistic effects that improved numerous interfacial bonding areas and mechanical interlocking morphologies. The toughening mechanism was related to crack deflection, microcrack generation, and fracture of the porous structure during interfacial failure. Additional numerical studies by finite element analysis further proved the enhancement mechanism. Overall, the proposed method looks promising for producing advanced carbon fiber-reinforced polymer composites with excellent strength and toughness.