Synthesis of polymeric emulsifier and its application in epoxy emulsion-type sizing agent for carbon fiber

Abstract

A new kind of polymeric emulsifier was readily synthesized through one-pot three-stage processes. Fourier transform infrared spectroscope (FTIR) combined with conversion rate of epoxide groups tests was applied to characterize the chemical composition of the polymeric emulsifier. The emulsion sizing based on the self-made polymeric emulsifier was prepared through phase inversion emulsification method. The stability of the sizing agent was evaluated by centrifugal sedimentation and particle size investigations. The surface morphology of CF was observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The effects of the sizing agent on CF handleability were examined by abrasion resistance, hairiness amount and stiffness tests. The results indicated that after sizing, the CF obtained an appreciable enhancement in handleability. Finally, interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of sized CF/epoxy resin composite increased by 55.39% compared with that of the desized one.