Interface modification strategy to construct SiC nanowires@pyrolytic carbon reinforcement for carbon fiber composites

Designing and optimizing the interface of carbon fiber composites is the key to improve mechanical and biotribological properties. Carbon fiber-reinforced hydroxyapatite-epoxy matrix (CM) composites, which have excellent mechanical and biotribological properties, are often used to avoid artificial bone damage and improve the longevity of artificial bone. In this work, a SiC nanowires@pyrolytic carbon (SiCnws@PyC) is designed and incorporated into the CM to improve the mechanical and biotribological properties. SiCnws@PyC can promote bonding of the fiber/matrix interface and cohesion of the epoxy matrix. The mechanical and biotribological properties of CM are greatly improved because of the interface modification and reinforcement of SiCnws@PyC. The tensile strength and elastic modulus of SiCnws@PyC-reinforced CM are 18.73% and 38.71% higher than those of CM, respectively. SiCnws@PyC-reinforced CM has a 9.09% reduction in the friction coefficient and a 74.61% reduction in the wear rate. This study provides a promising methodology for the preparation of SiCnws@PyC-reinforced CM with better stability and longevity for bone grafting applications. Highlights: The mechanism of SiC nanowires@pyrolytic carbon (SiCnws@PyC) is explained. The SiCnws@PyC structure is designed into composites. PyC core-shell transforms the structure of hydroxyapatite. The SiCnws@PyC enhances mechanical and biotribological properties of composites.