Surface ammonification of the mutual-irradiated aramid fibers in 1,4-dichlorobutane for improving interfacial properties with epoxy resin

The mutual irradiated aramid fibers in 1,4-dichlorobutane was ammoniated by ammonia/alcohol solution, in an attempt to improve the interfacial properties between aramid fibers and epoxy matrix. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), dynamic contact angle analysis (DCA), interfacial shear strength (IFSS), and single fiber tensile testing were carried out to investigate the functionalization process of aramid fibers and the interfacial properties of the composites. Experimental results showed that the fiber surface elements content changed obviously as well as the roughness through the radiation and chemical reaction. The surface energy and IFSS of aramid fibers increased distinctly after the ammonification, respectively. The amino groups generated by ammonification enhanced the interfacial adhesion of composites effectively by participating in the epoxy resin curing. Moreover, benefited by the appropriate radiation, the tensile strength of aramid fibers was not affected at all.