NICOP - Optimization of Carbon Fiber Surfaces for Advanced Composites
Abstract
properties of a composite material and how this material performs under stress. This is especiallyrelevant in thermoset resins such as vinyl ester and epoxy based matrices. Principal InvestigatorHenderson and Co-Investigator Walsh have recently developed a uniqu"e capability to chemicallymodify the surface of carbon fibers to present a desired chemistry to the matrix, and to measure, predict""and examine the structure/property relationships of the composites made from modified fibers and theintended resin, using molecula""r dynamics simulations.1-4 In this project we will gain critical, newdetailed insights into the interfacial interactions which enha""nce performance under shear by designing,testing and refining surface grafting of carbon fibers to complement (typically epoxy and" vinyl ester)resins to enhance interfacial shear strength via (1) experimental approaches and (2) molecularsimulations.The procedures developed in this project will enable the development of surface modified carbon fiberto be used in composites that will deliv"er superior mechanical performance in US Naval applications,while reducing material weight and simultaneously allowing for the inco""rporation of multi-functionalelements, such as fire resistant materials and EMC shielding. Carbon fiber (CF)/vinyl ester (VE)compo""sites are a key focus of the US Navy, offering out-of-autoclave processing pathways whichenable the feasible production of massive"" single-composite structures, such as the deck housing of theDDG-1000 Zumwalt Class Destroyer. However, the lack of interfacial adh""esion in these CF/VEcomposites is currently thought to be problematic, and the fundamental molecular-level reasons for thispoor ad"hesion are not well understood. In this project we will advance novel functionalization strategiesto systematically improve the mechanical performance of these strategically-important composites. Ourintegrated computational and experimental approach will provide a low-cost fundamental strategy fordesigning and realizing new CF/polymer materials that will enable advances in composite solutio"ns forUS naval platform mobility and survivability that are modular, cost-effective, and suitable for out ofautoclave fabrication" technologies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 20, 2017
- Source ID
- N629091812024
Entities
People
- Luke Henderson
Organizations
- Deakin University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy