Effects of temperature and pre-bending on the flexural properties of carbon fiber/epoxy composites

Abstract

This study investigates the combined influence of temperature and pre-bending (PB) on the flexural properties of Carbon Fiber/Epoxy (CF/Epoxy) composites. The study demonstrated the influence of temperature on CF/Epoxy’s flexural characteristics, noting a marginal reduction in stiffness at higher temperatures ([Formula: see text]C) compared to room temperature ([Formula: see text]C). Notably, even under HT, the composite exhibited a commendable load-bearing capacity, with a 29% reduction in strength. Additionally, the investigation focused on the impact of PB on CF/Epoxy’s flexural properties. The PB resulted in very small reductions in flexural strength (10%). It was observed that when subjected to both PB and HT, the material exhibited a collective response, with temperature exerting a more dominant influence than PB. Significantly reduced the flexural properties, resulting in a substantial 35% decrease in strength, surpassing the individual effects of temperature or PB. The findings emphasize the significant impact of the combined influence of temperature and PB on CF/Epoxy, shedding light on the material’s behavior under varying environmental conditions.