Improving Interfacial and Compressive Properties of Aramid by Synchronously Grafting and Crosslinking

Improving compressive strength of aramid and its adhesion to resin is of great significance for its application in reinforcing materials. In this study, a novel method for improving interfacial and compressive properties of aramid fiber is presented. α, α′ -Dichloro-p-xylene (DCX) is utilized as an external crosslinker to modify aramid fiber containing benzimidazole units during the post swelling process. Chloromethyl groups from DCX can react with benzimidazole moieties of the aramid fiber. The reaction can be regarded as crosslinking inside the fiber and grafting on the surface. By controlling the swelling effect of the solvent during modification, bulk crosslinking degree and surface grafting density can be adjusted. Therefore, intermolecular interaction and surface polarity of the aramid fiber can be improved simultaneously. After modification, the compressive strength of the fiber can be enhanced by nearly 100% and interfacial shear strength increases by 37%, while excellent mechanical properties are maintained. Therefore, comprehensive performance of aramid fiber can be improved significantly by synchronously crosslinking and grafting.