AC electric field‐assisted interlayer alignment of carbon nanotubes to synergistically enhance the properties of GFRP composites

Abstract Improving the properties of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites with CNTs has been challenging due to the lack of control over the distribution and orientation of CNTs during composite processing. Here, we propose a new method to polarize and align the interlayer CNTs by applying an alternating current field (AC) during the curing process of GFRP laminates and to improve the matrix‐reinforcement interface. The addition of 0.05 wt% multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) resulted in a 46.78% increase in initial crack extension and a 42.45% increase in steady‐state crack extension. Based on the microscopic characterization of the fracture surfaces and interfaces, the significant increase in fracture toughness was attributed to the bridging effect of the aligned CNTs as well as strong interfaces. The results of this study provide new opportunities for the development of composites with significantly enhanced properties. Highlights Curing of GFRP laminates with AC electric field‐assisted technique. Alignment of interlayer carbon nanotubes with electric field induced. The aligned CNTs increased the interlayer fracture energy by 42.45%.