Effect of Molding Parameters on the Interfacial Strength in PEEK/Carbon Composites

The objective of this work was to investigate the effects of molding condi tions (molding temperature, residence time at melt temperature and cooling rate) on the interfacial performance in PEEK/carbon composites made from both prepreg and com mingled forms. The results show that a minimum molding temperature and residence time are essential requirements to produce efficient fiber/matrix adhesion in the commingled fabric system. Moreover, a transition between cohesive and adhesive fracture is observed when the cooling rate increases from 30°C/min to 63°C/min for the composite made from the commingled fabric. While good fiber/matrix bonding is always present in the PEEK/carbon prepreg form, the interfacial strength of the APC-2 laminates is also sig nificantly affected by the cooling rate.