Effect of rare earth solution on mechanical and tribological properties of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic polyimide composite

Rare earth solution (RES) surface modification and air-oxidation methods were used to improve the interfacial adhesion of the carbon fiber reinforced polyimide (CF/PI) composite. The mechanical and tribological properties of the PI composites reinforced by the carbon fibers treated with different surface modification methods were comparatively investigated. Results showed that both the strength parameters (tensile and flexural) of the CF/PI composites improved remarkably due to RES treatment along with enhancement in friction and wear performance.