Compression, impact and residual strength after impact properties of graphene/fiberglass/epoxy multiscale composites

The effect of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), graphene oxide (GO), and reduced-graphene oxide (rGO) on compression, impact and residual strength after impact properties of glass-fiber reinforced polymer composites (GFRPs) were examined. Vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) method was used to simultaneously modify the fibers and the matrix with carbon nanomaterials. A solution of nanoparticle/epoxy mixed in a solvent was sprayed onto the fabric and was also introduced into the epoxy matrix by an agitator mixer. The results from tensile testing indicated that the addition of GNPs, GO, and rGO augmented the mechanical properties of glass fiber-reinforced composites. According to our experimental results, both fiber and matrix-dominant properties were improved under compression, impact and residual strength after impact properties tests, leading to a superior composite.