Abstract :
The present study shows the relation between
the surface properties of composite materials, treated with
common surface preparation methods, and the mechanically
measured bond strengths as quoted from lap-shear
tests. The surface properties are studied by roughness
measurements, surface free energy assessment, X-ray
photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy.
The procedures followed, reveal the measure of
significance of the mechanical interlocking, kinetics of
wetting, chemical reactivity and intermolecular adhesion of
the interfaces. It is shown that the governing adhesion
qualities determine significantly the fragmentation process
and the strength of the joints alongside the load transfer
mechanism that is analysed by a simple finite element
model. Based on the results, an emphasis is given on elucidating
the difference between the intrinsic interfacial
adhesion strength and the measured bond strength.
