Abstract
Hybrid material systems, such as combinations of tungsten foils and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), are replacing metal alloy concepts in spacecraft enclosures. However, a good adhesion between the tungsten oxide scale and the epoxy resin used is required. Here, the effects of a hydrofluoric-nitric-sulphuric-acid (HFNS) treatment on tungsten oxides and subsequent adhesion to CFRP are analysed using atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and fracture testing. The work shows that HFNS treatment results in decreased oxygen content, over 50% thinner tungsten trioxide (WO3) layer and increased nano-roughness on thin tungsten foils. Fracture testing established a 39% increase in the average critical strain for tungsten-CFRP specimens after HFNS treatment was carried out on tungsten. The effect of the oxide scale modification regarding the critical strain energy release rate was Delta Gc approximate to 8.4 J/m(2). (C) 2014 Elsevier By. All rights reserved.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 418-427 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Journal | Applied Surface Science |
| Volume | 328 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 15 Feb 2015 |
| Publication type | A1 Journal article-refereed |
Keywords
- surface treatments
- XPS
- Tungsten trioxide
- Interface
- Composites
Publication forum classification
- Publication forum level 1