The effects of heat treatment process on the interface properties of 3D-printed continuous fiber reinforced composites

doi:10.19936/j.cnki.2096-8000.20260228.015

Abstract

Abstract: 3D-printed continuous carbon fiber reinforced composites (CCFRCs), with their exceptional properties such as high strength, high modulus, and lightweight, have extensive application potential in the aerospace and aviation sectors. However, the weak interfacial bonding between fibers and resin, especially the inadequate interlaminar performance, has become a critical factor limiting their further development. The effects of heat treatment on the interface properties and microstructure of 3D-printed CCFRCs were investigated. Through double cantilever beam (DCB) tests, the influences of process parameters such as ply angle, heat treatment temperature and heat treatment time on the interlaminar fracture toughness of CCFRCs were systematically investigated. Combined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of fracture surface morphology, the mechanisms by which heat treatment affects the interlaminar performance of composites were revealed. The results show that the interlaminar fracture toughness of [0/45]₃ and [0/90]₃ specimens is higher than that of [0/0]₃ specimens. After heat treatment, the fiber bundles of [0/90]₃ specimens exhibit more matrix adhesion and rougher surfaces, leading to significantly improved interfacial bonding property. Among them, the interlaminar fracture toughness of [0/0]₃ specimens treated at 60 ℃ for 2 h reaches 1.570 kJ/m², representing a 50.67% increase compared to untreated specimens. In addition, longer heat treatment time results in more pronounced improvements in fracture toughness. Heat treatment enhances the interfacial bonding performance of CCFRCs and modifies their interlaminar failure mode by increasing resin fluidity, filling voids between deposition lines, and optimizing fiber alignment.

Key words: carbon fiber composite, 3D printing, interlaminar fracture toughness, interface property

CLC Number:

TB332

SUN Shiyong, MA Xin, TANG Wenjie, YANG Rui, WEI Lei. The effects of heat treatment process on the interface properties of 3D-printed continuous fiber reinforced composites[J]. COMPOSITES SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING, 2026, 0(2): 104-110.

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