The Effect of Resin Matrix on the Properties of CF/PEI and CF/PAEK Thermoplastic Composites

As the adhesive for composites, the resin matrix directly impacts the molding process and product performance of thermoplastic composites (TPCs). Carbon fiber-reinforced polyetherimide (CF/PEI) and polyaryletherketone (CF/PAEK) composites were prepared by a compression molding process. The interface, interlaminar, and low-speed impact properties of TPCs were studied. The results show that the interfacial shear strength of the CF/PEI composite is similar to 116 MPa, while the CF/PAEK composite is similar to 78 MPa. However, the interlaminar and low-speed impact performance of CF/PAEK is better than CF/PEI. Type I fracture toughness (G(IC)) and type II fracture toughness (G(IIC)) of CF/PEI are similar to 1051 MPa and similar to 1060 MPa. But those of CF/PAEK are similar to 1786 MPa and similar to 2584 MPa, respectively. The compressive strength after the impact of CF/PAEK (similar to 321 MPa) is 40% higher than CF/PEI (similar to 230 MPa).