Influence of graphene nanoplatelets on modes I, II and III interlaminar fracture toughness of fiber-reinforced polymer composites

The potential capability of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), with diverse surface functional groups for the purpose of enhancing the interlaminar fracture toughness of E-glass/epoxy composites was assessed. The GNPs included unmodified GNPs, and two chemically functionalized GNPs. Comparisons were made based on modes I, II and III interlaminar fracture toughness values. The results indicated that the interlaminar fracture toughness was increased significantly under mode I fracture, but not as much for the other modes. Based on the microscopic evaluation of the fracture surfaces, the inclusion of the functionalized GNPs generated the most resilient fiber/resin interface, thus, effectively inhibiting the crack propagation. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.