Effect of fiber surface treatment with silane coupling agents and carbon nanotubes on mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6 composites

Abstract The mechanical properties of carbon fiber (CF) reinforced thermoplastic polymer composites are primarily governed by the interphase between CFs and matrix. However, the inherent inertness of CF surfaces combined with the high viscosity and processing temperatures of thermoplastic resin often result in relatively weak interfacial bonding. This study aims to enhance the interfacial adhesion of carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6 composites to improve their mechanical properties. CFs were de‐sized and oxidized, followed by re‐sizing with silanized carbon nanotubes. Fracture morphology and composition analysis of the fibers were conducted, and the fibers were subsequently incorporated into composites for mechanical testing. Results revealed a 20.0% increase in tensile strength, a 25.11% increase in flexural strength, and a 24.88% increase in interlaminar shear strength for the resized‐carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6 composites compared to the pristine‐carbon fiber reinforced polyamide composites. The cross‐sectional morphology of the modified composites exhibited a zig‐zag fracture pattern. Dynamic mechanical analysis indicated that the modified fibers required higher activation energy for the free movement of the polyamide 6 molecular chain. These findings suggest that surface treatment enhances the interfacial adhesive between CF and resin, thereby significantly improving the mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6 composites. Highlights An efficient and reliable carbon fiber surface treatment method is proposed. Surface modification improves surface chemical activity of carbon fibers. Composites show substantial improvements in mechanical properties. Interfacial performance enhancement mechanism of composite was revealed.