Effectively Modified Surface Microstructure and Properties of Carbon Fiber via In-situ Growth of Nano-SiO2

Design and adjustment of surface microstructure is an essential step forward in enhancing the interfacial properties of carbon fiber composites. Based on the classical Sol-Gel method, the silica was successfully introduced on the carbon fiber (CF) surface by the In-situ growth strategy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA) showed squid-like tentacle-like silica protrusions covered the CF surface uniformly. Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR) result showed that the In-situ growth method introduced more silica on the CF surface. The interfacial layer is well preserved under mild condition and the tensile strength of CF increased by a 4.42%. Additionally, this investigation has the potential value not only focus on improved its smooth surface and chemical inertness but also solved the problems such as non-dispersible silica and time-consuming during the preparation process.