The mechanical properties of insert-molded poly (ether imide) (PEI)/C fiber poly (ether ether ketone)(PEEK) composites

The mechanical properties of insert-molded poly(ether imide) (PEI)/carbon fiber poly(etheretherketone) (CF PEEK) have been examined. Bimaterial composite specimens were constructed by injecting CF PEEK into a mold containing one-half of a PEI tensile specimen. These PEI/CF PEEK composites retained much of their strength and dimensional integrity at temperatures as high as 200°C. Variations in test speed had little affect on breaking strains or stiffness. For two grades of PEI examined, properties were independent of the molecular weight of the PEI. Ultimate properties and fracture surfaces suggested good adhesion between the PEI and CF PEEK, possibly aided by miscibility between the two materials. The PEI/CF PEEK bimaterial composites behaved similarly to PC/CF PEEK specimens, but exhibited higher breaking stresses and moduli, both at room and elevated temperatures.