Surface functionalization of carbon fiber by hydrothermally synthesized ZnO nanostructures for mechanical strengthening of polymer composites

Abstract

AbstractIn this work, the effects of ZnO nanostructure‐surface functionalized carbon fibers has been examined along with their impacts on mechanical attributes of resulting hybrid carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. The procedure involves hydrothermally generating ZnO nanostructures on carbon fibers. To generate hybrid composites, the modified carbon fiber fabric is then utilized as reinforcement in a matrix made of bisphenol‐A epoxy resin and polymer. The electron microscopy technique was employed to study development phenomenon of nanostructures on the fiber. According to the findings, lengthening the growth treatment and increasing seeding cycles improves the rate of ZnO formation. However, the results are not significantly impacted by the growth solution's concentration. The weight change analysis, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV‐spectroscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy all provide additional support for these conclusions. In comparison to plain CFRP composites, the developed hybrid CFRP composites tensile properties and impact resistance are significantly better. The ZnO‐modified CFRP composites exhibit improvements in elastic modulus, tensile strength, and in‐plane shear strength of up to 46.44%, 48.63%, and 20.79%, respectively. The hybrid composites' capacity to absorb impact energy also rises by 76%. Based on these results, the developed hybrid composites exhibit promising properties for applications in industries such as aircraft and automobile manufacturing. They offer high impact strength, high modulus, lightweight characteristics, and low void content, making them desirable materials for these industries.Highlights Controlled growth of vertically aligned ZnO nanostructures on fiber surface has been accomplished using hydrothermal method. Characteristics of CFRP composites such as tensile strength, elastic modulus, in‐plane shear strength, and impact energy absorption, were significantly enhanced on inclusion of ZnO. The developed hybrid composites offer cost‐effective solutions with improved mechanical properties. High impact strength and modulus make them suitable for applications in aircraft and automobile industries. Achieved exceptional morphological structure and enhanced surface‐to‐volume ratio.