Abstract
In this study, the surface of a composite prepreg was treated using an atmospheric pressure plasma in an attempt to improve the fracture toughness of a co-cured joint system. Three gas mixtures were investigated; helium, helium/nitrogen, and helium/oxygen. The processing parameters of the system were varied to obtain the maximum increase in surface energy of the prepreg. A He/O2 plasma was found to be the most efficient treatment, giving the largest increase in surface energy in the shortest time. Co-cured joints were then fabricated using prepreg that had been treated with various plasmas. A modest 15-18% increase in the Mode I fracture toughness was achieved. However, the locus of failure remained interfacial. It was also observed that a He/O 2 plasma treatment could be detrimental to joint toughness for long treatment times.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 733-754 |
| Number of pages | 22 |
| Journal | Journal of Adhesion |
| Volume | 90 |
| Issue number | 9 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2 Sep 2014 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Composites
- Fracture mechanics
- Surface treatment by excited gases (e.g., flame, corona, plasma)
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