Preparation and characterization of nickel coated carbon fiber reinforced polycarbonate composites

Abstract

Polycarbonate was reinforced with nickel coated carbon fiber and various composites were made by changing the fiber content. For comparative study, carbon fiber as such was also used to fabricate composites. Nickel coated carbon fiber was prepared by dip coating method. Scanning electron microscope studies indicated that the thickness of coating was in the rage of 1.0–1.8 µm on a 4–6 µm thick carbon fiber. Tensile and flexural properties of nickel coated carbon fiber composites were found to be higher than that of uncoated composites. Impact properties decreased with increase in fiber content in both coated and uncoated carbon fiber reinforced composites. Nickel coating decreased the notch sensitivity of composites. Significant improvement in abrasion properties were observed upon introduction of nickel coated carbon fibers. Dynamic mechanical analysis studies indicated increase in glass transition temperature with increase in nickel coated carbon fiber content. scanning electron microscope studies indicated uniform distribution of fibers. Two-step degradation was observed in air atmosphere.