In this work, we studied the effects of electrochemical oxidation treatments of carbon fibers (CFs) on interfacial adhesion between CF and epoxy resin with various current densities. The surface morphologies and properties of the CFs before and after electrochemical-oxidation-treatment were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and single-fiber contact angle. The mechanical interfacial shear strength of the CFs/epoxy matrix composites was investigated by using a micro-bond method. From the results, electrochemical oxidation treatment introduced oxygen functional groups and increased roughness on the fiber surface. The mechanical interfacial adhesion strength also showed higher values than that of an untreated CF-reinforced composite.

• Dong-Kyu Kim(R&D Division, Korea Institute of Carbon Convergence Technology, Jeonju 54853, Korea. Department of Carbon Fusion Engineering, Jeonju University, Jeonju 55069, Korea)
• Kay-Hyeok An(R&D Division, Korea Institute of Carbon Convergence Technology, Jeonju 54853, Korea)
• Yun Hyuk Bang(Hyosung R&DB Labs, Anyang 14080, Korea)
• Lee-Ku Kwac(Department of Carbon Fusion Engineering, Jeonju University, Jeonju 55069, Korea)
• Sang-Yub Oh(R&D Division, Korea Institute of Carbon Convergence Technology, Jeonju 54853, Korea)
• Byung-Joo Kim(R&D Division, Korea Institute of Carbon Convergence Technology, Jeonju 54853, Korea) Corresponding Author