Utilizing tree-root-shape aramid pulp to construct short aramid fiber/epoxy film for improving compression and compression after impact performance of basalt/carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites
摘要
To meet the demand for high-performance and low-cost composites in general civil and industrial applications, a basalt/carbon fiber reinforced polymer (BCFRP) composite was designed and prepared using an epoxy matrix. Tree‑root‑shaped aramid pulp (TRAP) was introduced at the interlayer to form a short aramid fiber/epoxy (SAFE) film, aiming to mitigate delamination failure in laminated BCFRP composites. The effects of different TRAP contents (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 wt%) on the compression, impact, and compression‑after‑impact (CAI) performance were systematically investigated using optical microscopy (OM), X‑ray micro‑computed tomography (XRM‑CT), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the composite with 4 wt% TRAP exhibited optimal overall performance, with compressive strength and CAI strength increased by 54.1% and 37.7%, respectively, compared to ordinary BCFRP composites, while impact strength reached its maximum at 5 wt% TRAP. OM, XRM ‑CT and SEM revealed that TRAP improved the resin‑rich regions and interfacial transition zones by constructing a fiber bridge structure at the interlayer, thereby enhancing mechanical interlocking between adjacent fiber layers and effectively suppressing delamination. In summary, the SAFE film significantly improved the safety of BCFRP composites under external loading, and the incorporation of TRAP represents a simple, effective, and industrially applicable interleaving strategy.