A review of carbon fiber surface modification methods for tailor-made bond behavior with cementitious matrices

Insufficient bonding behavior between intrinsically hydrophobic carbon fibers and water-based suspensions restricts the application of carbon fiber (CF) reinforced cements and other mineral building materials. To resolve this issue several researchers have investigated physical and chemical modification methods for enhanced load transfer from mineral matrices to CFs. Polymer impregnations and temperature-stable mineral suspensions have been used to tailor the interphase zone between CF rovings and surrounding matrices, achieving, e.g., better pullout behavior. Additionally, surface modification approaches such as oxidation, electrophoretic deposition, plasma, and grafting treatments as well have been applied to improve fiber-matrix interactions. In this article these approaches are systematically reviewed and compared to describe and recommend appropriate methods for achieving tailor-made interfacial bonding behavior. Finally, suitable approaches to characterization are discussed to provide a comprehensive overview of the related methodology and to assist in studying the characteristics of the carbon fiber itself and its bonding behavior toward mineral matrices.

Automated summary

Insufficient bonding between hydrophobic carbon fibers and water-based suspensions has limited the application of carbon fiber reinforced cements and other mineral building materials. Researchers have explored physical and chemical modification methods to enhance load transfer from mineral matrices to carbon fibers. Polymer impregnations and temperature-stable mineral suspensions have been used to improve the interface between carbon fibers and matrices, achieving better pullout behavior. Surface modification techniques such as oxidation and electrophoretic deposition have also been employed to improve fiber-matrix interactions. This article systematically reviews and compares these approaches, providing recommendations for achieving tailor-made interfacial bonding behavior.