Greenly building strong interactions between epoxy and carbon fiber fabric via vapor assisted ozone

Abstract To enhance the performance of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), it is crucial to establish robust interactions between epoxy and carbon fiber fabric (CFF). Herein, CFF was treated by an optimized H₂O₂/H₂O/O₃ oxidation method. The chemical and physical properties of the treated CFFs were meticulously characterized. For comparison, CFF, O₃ treated CFF, and H₂O/O₃ treated CFFs were also examined. It was found that H₂O₂/H₂O/O₃ oxidized CFF more effectively than either O₃ or H₂O/O₃. Reactive O groups were extensively grafted onto the surface of the H₂O₂/H₂O/O₃ oxidized CFF, leading to an increase in surface energy. Additionally, numerous defects were introduced on the surface of the H₂O₂/H₂O/O₃ oxidized CFF, significantly enhancing its surface roughness. Consequently, the interlaminar shear strength of H₂O₂/H₂O/O₃ oxidized CFF reinforced epoxy composite reached 63.31 ± 2.50 MPa, which is 43.3% higher than that of CFF reinforced epoxy composite. The fracture surface morphology and differential scanning calorimetry studies confirmed the presence of strong interfacial chemical interactions, while the increased surface roughness ensured robust interfacial physical interactions. Based on these findings, the mechanisms of the H₂O₂/H₂O/O₃ oxidized CFF reinforcing epoxy were proposed. The present work aims to give out some ideas for the fabrication of green and advanced CFRP. Highlights CFF was effectively oxidized by an optimized H₂O₂/H₂O/O₃ method eco‐friendly. Improved the interlaminar shear strength of the epoxy composite by 43.3%. Both the strong interfacial chemical and physical interactions were confirmed. The reinforcing mechanism is attributed to the robust interactions.