Composite materials -- Usage, Composite materials -- Health aspects, Carbon fibers -- Usage, Carbon fibers -- Health aspects, and Cell adhesion -- Models

INTRODUCTION Carbon fibers are defined as a fiber materials containing at least 92 wt % carbon in composition, however the fiber containing at least 99 wt % carbon is usually [...]
Background: The performance of composites profoundly depends on the quality of the fiber-matrix interface. Good interfacial adhesion provides composites with structural integrity and efficient load transfer between fiber and matrix. Nevertheless, untreated carbon fibers are extremely inert and hence have low adhesion to resin matrices. In the meantime, the relatively weak transverse and interlaminar properties significantly limit the composite performance and service life. To overcome these barriers, a fiber-based reinforcement which has strong interfacial adhesion to the matrix is highly desired to improve the overall composite properties. Aim of the study: was to assess the Effect of different surface Treatments of Carbon fibers and their influence on the interfacial properties of carbon fiber/epoxy composites. Methods: A review of the scientific literature (from 1970 to 2017). Pubmed, Embase and CENTRAL were searched to identify studies that investigated the different types of surface treatment of carbon fibers and how this can affect the quality of carbon fiber composite. Identification of papers and data extraction were performed by different independent researchers. Conclusion: Various combinations of surface treatment of carbon fibers are crucial to improve its adhesion with various matrices. Treatment significantly influences fiber characteristics. Nevertheless, optimization is required to select appropriate treatment method per application and desired properties. Keywords: Carbon fibers, surface treatment, composites.