Optimizing fiber/matrix interface by growth MnO ₂ nanosheets for achieving desirable mechanical and tribological properties

A novel and characteristic method is confirmed for enhancing the fibers/resin interfacial strength by growing MnO ₂ nanosheets on the woven carbon fiber (WCF) using the hydrothermal method for 1 h from 100 to 175 °C. An interesting finding is that both the density and length of MnO ₂ nanosheets are functions of the growth temperature. The optimal growth temperature is 125 °C, and the homogeneous and porous MnO ₂ has greatly improved the wettability between the WCF and the matrix and further results in an improvement of 16.3% and 30.2% in the flexural strength and tensile strength of the composite. And then tribological properties are further improved which can be verified by an obvious increment in dynamic fricition coefficient and a 38.7% reduction in wear rate.