Indirect buffer-based laser pretreatment method for enhancing the adhesive bonding of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic

Abstract

The bonding technology of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is a key technology in its production. Laser pretreatment is a common method for improving the bonding strength. However, the use of laser pretreatment without damaging the carbon fibers has always been challenging. A laser pretreatment method is proposed to improve the bond strength of CFRP without damaging the carbon fibers. The proposed method increases the tensile shear strength of CFRP from 2448 to 4851 N; 9.79 to 19.41 MPa. The naked carbon fiber treated by buffer laser pretreatment provides additional strength to the glue. Scanning electron microscopy was used to image the surfaces of the samples. Failure modes were also investigated to explain the increase in bond strength. The benefits of this method can be explained using a thermal model, and this method can be used as a reference for the laser processing of CFRPs.