Effect of Polymer Coating Modification on the Interfacial Properties of Aramid Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites
摘要
This study combines simulation analysis and experimental investigation to modify the surface of aramid fibers using two polymer coatings. The polyurethane coating introduces polar hydroxyl groups on the fiber surface, enhancing covalent bonding between the coating and resin. Additionally, the increased number of hydrogen bond donors and receptors in the system facilitates the formation of a stronger hydrogen bond network, synergistically improving interfacial adhesion. This results in a 1.5-fold increase in model interfacial bonding energy and a 20.08% reduction in fiber surface contact angle. The dopamine coating introduces abundant hydroxyl and amino groups that participate in curing reactions. Simultaneously, the deposition of dopamine coating creates large-sized protrusions on the fiber surface, significantly increasing surface roughness by 38.55%. The interfacial bonding energy shows a 4.1-fold enhancement compared to unmodified fibers, effectively improving interfacial bonding strength and stability. Finally, composite samples were prepared and tested: The polyurethane-modified aramid/epoxy composite demonstrates a density of 1.287 g/cm3, flexural strength of 773.52 MPa, and tensile strength of 1176.23 MPa. The dopamine-modified composite exhibits a density of 1.263 g/cm3, flexural strength of 832.57 MPa, and tensile strength of 1183.72 MPa, indicating that dopamine modification yields more significant improvements in mechanical performance.