Abstract
A novel CVD grown 3D network graphene is used as interleaves to toughen and strengthen glass fiber reinforced epoxy composite (GF/EP). Remarkable increases of 70% and 206% in mode I and mode II interlaminar fracture energies, respectively, and 36% enhancement in interlaminar shear strength are achieved in GF/EP by incorporating network graphene in the failure-prone mid-plane compared to those composite laminates without interleaves. Pertinent toughening mechanisms include crack deflection and formation of interfacial micro-cracks with significant increase in surface areas owing to the 3D hollow sphere-like graphene wrapping around the epoxy matrix as well as graphene fracture and slippage between adjacent layers.
Published Version
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