A strategy for constructing multiscale interfacial layers for carbon fiber composite based on the “alcohol-amine” reaction of tannic acid

Inspired by the strong adhesion properties of mussel byssus protein, this paper presents the construction of a multi-scale TA-APTES-GO interfacial layer aimed at addressing the inadequate interfacial properties of CF/PPESK composites. XPS, Raman spectroscopy, and SEM confirmed that this novel interfacial layer can enhance the activity and roughness of the CF surface, thereby promoting resin infiltration. Furthermore, this interfacial layer exhibits a modulus transition that eliminates the modulus discrepancy between CF and resin matrix, and mitigates stress concentration. Mechanical property tests demonstrated that the incorporation of the TA-APTES-GO interfacial layer increased the ILSS of the composites by 51% and the bending strength by 22%. Additionally, the failure behavior and interfacial strengthening mechanisms of the composites were investigated in detail. The interfacial layer is straightforward to prepare and significantly enhances interfacial properties, offering a promising approach to elevating the interfacial characteristics of CFRTPs. Highlights Based on mussel byssus protein bionics, a TA-APTES-GO multi-scale interface layer was designed and synthesized. TA-APTES-GO significantly enhanced interfacial binding of CF/PPESK. TA-APTES-GO effectively balances the modulus discrepancy between CF and the resin matrix.