The mechanical effect of functionalization in laminated composite material

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to systematically compare the effect of increasing fiber–matrix interface adhesion and matrix toughness in layered composite materials. Design/methodology/approach Silane ((3-glycidyloxypropyl) trimethoxysilane) was applied to strengthen the fiber–matrix interface connection in e-glass/epoxy laminated composite material. Using a cationic surfactant, 0.1% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were added to the matrix in two different ways, by with and without chemical functionalization using the vacuum infusion method. Findings In the results obtained from the three-point bending test specimens, it was determined that the synergistic effect of silane application and non-functionalized CNT in the matrix was higher in terms of flexural modulus and strength values. Practical implications The functionalization of multi-walled CNT did not give the expected results because of reasons such as viscosity increase and agglomeration in the matrix. Originality/value In this study, a simple model for normalization and prediction purposes was developed, which allows the determination of the flexural modulus and un-notched flexural strength values from one test result of the notched specimen. A systematic comparison was performed by varying each parameter in the composite material.