Compatibility Problem

Hello Abdul,

Carbon fibers are usually treated with "Sizing Agents" by most manufacturers for adhesion. This sizing agents may be based on "Silane coupling agents". This surface treatment is extremely important not only for adhersion between epoxy/polyesters and carbon fibers but also load transfer between epoxy to carbon fibers. So if you have fractures at resin (Polyesters, epoxies, phenolic, and cyanate esters) and fiber interface then your load carrying capability of your composite laminate will be affected. Also please pay attention to the type of carbon fiber selection (modulus, strain, and tow sizes). I would recommend epoxies based on my personal experience.

If you are looking for load carrying capability, then select fibers like T-650, IM7, or T1000 carbon fibers(with 3k tow is ideal but 6k might be cheaper). Select an epoxy that is 350 F cure system for high temperature capability

thanks, that helped a lot. you sound like a real pro at composites!