Recent advances in the enhancement of interfacial properties in carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites with nanomaterials

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRPs) are widely used in aerospace, transportation, and defense industries due to their excellent properties such as lightweight, high specific strength and stiffness, superior thermal stability, and corrosion resistance. However, the smooth and chemically inert surface of carbon fiber (CF) results in poor interfacial adhesion between the fiber and matrix, thereby impacting the mechanical performance of CFRPs. To address this issue, nanomaterials have been introduced to the fiber surface, leveraging their exceptional mechanical properties and large specific surface area to enhance the interfacial properties of CFRPs. Compared to conventional modification methods like sizing, plasma treatment, and oxidation treatment, nanomaterials provide a superior approach by creating a robust transition layer at the interface. This layer can enhance mechanical interlocking, balance the modulus of the CF with that of the matrix, and effectively disperse interfacial stress, thus improving load transfer from the matrix to the fiber. This review examines recent advances in CF surface modification using nanomaterials and discusses the mechanisms behind interfacial enhancement. It also explores the potential future directions for research in this field, aiming to promote nanomaterial applications for advancing the use of higher-performance CFRPs from lab to industry.