Hansen solubility parameters for a carbon fiber/epoxy composite Original Research Article

In this study, the physical affinity between an epoxy matrix and oxidized, unsized carbon fibers has been evaluated using Hansen solubility (cohesion) parameters (HSP). A strong physical compatibility has been shown, since their respective HSP are close. The use of a glassy carbon substrate as a model for unsized carbon fiber has been demonstrated as appropriate for the study of interactions between the materials in composite carbon fiber–epoxy systems. The HSP of glassy carbon are similar to those of carbon fibers and epoxy matrix.