Characterization of PVDF infused carbon fibers and epoxy matrices by single filament fragmentation and tensile test methods

Tensile tests were performed for PVDF infused epoxy matrices and single filament fragmentation tests were performed for PVDF coated carbon fibers and. Fiber fragmentation test was carried out by embedding a single carbon fiber into a resin matrix in a tensile interface. The interfacial shear stress was compared by measuring the critical lengths of the fragments using optical stress fringe method. The changes in the mechanical properties of the epoxy matrixes with addition of PVDF were studied and characterized using standard tensile tests. Overall, the single fiber fragmentation tests and the standard tensile tests of PVDF infused epoxy matrices, proved to be an efficient means of evaluating the processing parameters of fibrous composite as a whole including the fiber and the matrix, and show an effective path for improving the properties of fibrous composites.